Organic Cleavers Extract

Cleavers (Galium aparine) is one of the most widely used lymphatic and urinary herbs in the Western herbal tradition. A mild, safe, and versatile botanical with a long history of use across European, Native American, and Chinese herbal medicine.

Traditional Herbal Use

Lymphatic System & Detoxification

Cleavers has a particular affinity for the lymphatic system and is regarded as one of the primary lymphatic tonic herbs in Western herbal medicine. It is traditionally used for swollen glands, tonsillitis, and lymphatic congestion — supporting the body's natural drainage and detoxification pathways. Historically, its ability to "cleave" to surfaces led herbalists to associate it with lymphatic congestion, skin wounds, and topical poultice applications. Christopher Hobbs describes it as a "mild diuretic and blood and lymphatic cleanser" with a particular affinity for the lymphatic system.

Urinary Tract & Bladder Support

Cleavers is one of the most effective herbal diuretics for urinary tract health. It is traditionally used to clear bladder infections, cleanse the urinary tract, and help prevent small kidney stones from forming. In Chinese medicine, Cleavers is used to disperse stagnancy and inflammation in the urinary system — making it relevant for UTIs, cystitis, and bladder inflammation.

Skin Health

Cleavers is indicated for psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions in Western herbal practice. Its lymphatic and blood-cleansing action is considered the mechanism behind its skin benefits — supporting the body's ability to clear metabolic waste via the lymphatic system rather than through the skin.

Blood Pressure Support

Cleavers makes a useful addition to formulas to lower blood pressure, according to Christopher Hobbs. Its diuretic and lymphatic-clearing action contributes to this effect.

Immune & Respiratory Support

Native American and European herbalists used Cleavers for respiratory ailments and immune support, particularly in the context of lymphatic congestion and swollen glands.

How to Use

Take 10–30 drops under the tongue or in a little juice or water, up to 2–3 times daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner. Best used as part of a broader herbal protocol for lymphatic, urinary, or skin support.

Precautions

Generally well tolerated at traditional dosages. Consult your healthcare practitioner before use if pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you are taking diuretic or blood pressure medications. Not recommended as a substitute for medical treatment of urinary tract infections — seek professional advice if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Ingredients

Organic Cleavers (Galium aparine) aerial parts, 60% alcohol.

Stack This With

• Dandelion Extract — complementary liver, kidney, and lymphatic support; synergistic diuretic and detoxification action
• Nettle Extract — synergistic urinary and anti-inflammatory herb; supports iron levels and kidney function alongside Cleavers
• Calendula Extract — complementary lymphatic and skin herb; synergistic for lymphatic congestion, skin conditions, and inflammation
• Gumpii Extract — foundational botanical base

Want to Combine Several Tinctures?

Our tinctures are designed to be combined. Add your chosen drops together into a small amount of water or juice. Cleavers combines particularly well with Dandelion, Nettle, and Calendula for a comprehensive lymphatic and urinary support formula. Contact us if you'd like guidance on a personalised stack.

Related Wellness Guides

• Wellness Hub — explore all herbal guides

Naturally Occurring Compounds

• Iridoid glycosides (asperuloside) — characteristic compounds of Galium species; contribute to anti-inflammatory and diuretic activity
• Tannins — mild astringent properties; contribute to urinary tract and skin applications
• Flavonoids — antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity
• Coumarins — naturally occurring in Galium species; contribute to lymphatic and circulatory activity
• Organic acids — including citric acid; contribute to diuretic action
• Polysaccharides — immune-modulating activity

Research & References

• Hobbs, C. Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide. Storey Publishing. — Primary reference for lymphatic, urinary, and blood pressure applications.
• Wichtl, M. (Ed.). (2004). Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals. Medpharm Scientific Publishers.
• Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. DK Publishing.

Content provided for informational purposes only. Not medical advice. Not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Consult your healthcare practitioner.