Benefits of Cleavers

Cleavers, also known as stickywilly, catchweed, bedstraw, goosegrass and by its botanical name of Galium aparine, is a low-growing annual herb native to North America and Eurasia. It is easily recognized by its unique foliage, which is characterized by whorls of 6 to 8 leaves spouting from square-shaped stems. At one time, this plant was used as mattress filling—hence the nickname “bedstraw.” The herb is also a traditional remedy for urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal disorders and skin conditions.

Lymphatic Benefits

In an article published in "Vitality" magazine, herbalist Michael Vertolli says that cleavers is one of the best herbs to use to detoxify the lymph system. As such, he says the herb effectively counters chronic inflammatory conditions such as acne, eczema and arthritis. Vertolli recommends using the fresh herb to make tea, tincture or juice since the dried herb is significantly less potent in these cleansing properties.
While all parts of the plant are nontoxic and not associated with any serious side effects, Vertolli cautions that this herb should not be used during pregnancy because toxins released from tissues may recirculate in the blood and have a negative impact on a developing fetus.

Vascular Effects

Cleavers may enhance the function of blood vessels and help maintain a healthy blood pressure. According to the “Physicians’ Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines," the herb contains significant amounts of asperuloside, a glycoside that is converted by the body into hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. These compounds are directly involved in processes related to the contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle, dilation and constriction of blood vessels and the regulation of blood pressure. Preparations made from cleavers may also be used topically, says Vertolli, to treat bruises, hemorrhoids and varicose veins.

Urinary Health

While cleavers is not regarded as a strong diuretic, it does accelerate the rate of elimination of toxins from the kidneys. According to Vertolli, cleavers is often combined with other botanicals reputed to combat urinary stones, such as marshmallow root or Queen Ann’s lace. He also recommends cleavers to treat urinary tract infections, as well as inflammation of the urinary tract or prostate. This may be due to the plant containing various antimicrobial compounds. For instance, Chinese researchers have isolated gallic acid from the plant, an agent with demonstrated antifungal and antiviral properties.

Bone Health

Another constituent isolated during the investigation of Galium aparine compounds by the Chinese scientists include p-hydroxycinnamic acid. According to a paper published in 2008 by the "International Journal of Molecular Medicine," p-hydroxycinnamic acid stimulates bone calcification in osteoclast cells and slows the rate of bone resorption, which results in bone loss due to the release of calcium reserves from bone.