text: Genus & Species: Galium aparine
  Common Names: Goosegrass, Bedstraw, Catchweed, Sticky Willow, Grip Grass, Velcro Plant
  Overview: Cleavers is an herbaceous annual plant native to North American, Asia, and Europe. It is often one of the first signs of growth in the new year, coming out just when its medicinal properties are most needed. Cleavers is an herb that supports the body’s ability to cleanse itself which is ideal for eliminating the residual stagnation from the heavier foods of winter.  This herb has a particular affinity for purifying the lymphatic system, the kidneys, and the skin.  In addition to it’s cleansing properties, Cleavers is a fantastic all-around skin healer which may help heal sunburns and psoriasis. [1,3]
  Therapeutic Properties: Lymphagogue, anti-inflammatory, alterative, diuretic, vulnerary.
  Typical Uses: To make use of Cleaver’s systemic cleansing properties, it’s best to ingest the herb. This can be done by making a tea, though cleavers is one of the few medicinal plants that can be easily juiced.  To make a juice, blend some fresh leaves with about a tablespoon of water until it turns into a liquid pulp. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and squeeze every last drop of liquid out. The resulting juice can be ingested as a potent spring tonic, or even applied topically to soothe and heal burns on the skin. [1,3] Cleavers can also be infused into an oil to make an ideal daily treatment that will break up stagnation in the skin, encouraging new nutrients to circulate through while bringing out your skin’s natural vibrancy. 
  1. 3 Ways to Use Cleavers for Spring Cleansing | The Herbal Academy
  2. Cleavers Monograph | Eclectic School of Herbal Medicine
  3. The Cleavers Herb | Herbal Remedies Advice