Cleavers (Galium aparine)
Rich in chlorophyll, Cleavers is an excellent spring tonic used to increase lymph node circulation and purify the blood. It can be used year round to stimulate and detox our internal organs, especially the gallbladder and bladder, while decreasing inflammation and water retention. Here in California it grows as a weed along road sides, although unassuming, it likes to be noticed. In old English the word “to Cleave” means to latch onto. While harvesting wild Cleavers, the sticky leaves attach to anything it comes in contact with. Energetically speaking Cleavers “latches onto” those places inside of us, and aids in stimulating the lymphatic system. By using Cleavers we help support our lymphatic system and allow our body to detox and release metabolic waste, and thus improving our immune system.
Next time you’re out hiking you might notice teeny bits of cleavers attached to your clothing, this may very well be a sign that Cleavers is trying to get your attention.