Cleavers (Galium aparine)

Cleavers (Galium aparine)

Botanical Description

  • Family: Rubiaceae (Madder family)
  • Common Names: Cleavers, Goosegrass, Sticky Willy, Catchweed, Robin-Run-the-Hedge
  • Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers)
  • Habitat: Commonly found in hedgerows, meadows, and woodlands across the UK and Isle of Man.

Cleavers is a climbing herb known for its sticky, clinging nature and powerful lymphatic cleansing properties. Traditionally used in herbal medicine, equine and canine care, and folklore, it is a gentle yet highly effective detoxifier.

Constituents

  • Iridoids (Asperuloside) – Supports lymphatic drainage and detoxification.
  • Flavonoids (Quercetin, Kaempferol, Luteolin) – Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
  • Tannins – Astringent, helps tighten tissues and reduce swelling.
  • Caffeic Acid & Chlorogenic Acid – Anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antimicrobial.
  • Coumarins – Support blood circulation and mild pain relief.

Traditional & Medicinal Uses

Cleavers has long been used as a lymphatic cleanser, urinary tonic, and cooling anti-inflammatory herb. It was traditionally used in spring tonics to purify the blood and boost vitality.

General Medicinal Actions
  • Lymphatic Drainage & Detoxification – Supports the immune system and reduces swollen glands.
  • Diuretic & Kidney Health – Aids urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney stones.
  • Cooling Anti-Inflammatory – Soothes skin conditions, arthritis, and minor injuries.
  • Blood Cleansing & Detox – Used in spring tonics for purifying the body.
  • Supports Wound Healing – Fresh cleavers were used as a poultice for cuts and scrapes.

Equine Use of Cleavers

Benefits for Horses

Cleavers is widely used in natural equine health care, particularly for:

  1. Lymphatic System Support – Helps with fluid retention, swollen legs, and windgalls.
  2. Urinary Tract Health – Acts as a mild diuretic, supporting kidney function.
  3. Joint & Anti-Inflammatory Support – Assists in reducing stiffness and aiding recovery from injuries.
  4. Detoxification & Blood Cleansing – Beneficial for horses prone to skin issues and allergies.
  5. Hoof & Skin Health – Helps with mud fever, scratches, and dermatitis.
Precautions
  • Generally safe, but avoid excessive use as it is a natural diuretic.
  • Ensure fresh water is always available when feeding cleavers.
  • Introduce gradually to avoid digestive upset.

Canine Use of Cleavers

Benefits for Dogs

Cleavers is a gentle detoxifying and anti-inflammatory herb that is especially helpful for:

  1. Lymphatic System Support – Aids drainage of swollen glands and lymphatic congestion.
  2. Urinary Health – Helps flush out toxins, preventing UTIs and supporting kidney function.
  3. Anti-Inflammatory for Skin & Joints – Soothes hot spots, rashes, and arthritis.
  4. General Detox & Spring Tonic – Encourages healthy digestion and metabolism.
Precautions
  • Mild diuretic – ensure adequate hydration.
  • Start with small amounts to assess tolerance.
  • Avoid if dog is on diuretic medications (may enhance the effect).

UK & Isle of Man Folklore of Cleavers

Cleavers has deep roots in British and Manx folklore, often associated with protection, magic, and herbal healing.

UK Folklore
  • "Sticky Willy" & Protection Magic – It was believed that cleavers could snare evil spirits and were often hung in doorways for protection.
  • Herbal Cleansing in Spring – Traditionally, cleavers was one of the first spring herbs used in purifying tonics after winter.
  • Folk Name "Bedstraw" – Farmers would use dried cleavers as bedding for animals, believing it helped ward off fleas and pests.
Isle of Man Folklore
  • A Herb of Purification & Healing – Manx herbalists used cleavers in cooling poultices to draw out infections and reduce fevers.
  • Associated with Water Spirits – Some folklore suggests cleavers had a connection to water nymphs and rivers, reflecting its diuretic properties.
  • Used in Divination – Manx traditions sometimes involved placing cleavers under pillows to receive dream messages from the spirit world.

Conclusion

Cleavers is a gentle yet powerful detoxifier, supporting the lymphatic system, kidneys, and inflammatory conditions in both horses and dogs. It is a valuable spring tonic and has a long history in British and Manx folklore as a healing and protective herb.

Coat and skin

Detox

Digestion

Hooves

Respiratory

Wellbeing

Clay various Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)