By Dr Catherine W. Dunne, MSc.D., RGN (GPN)
Holistic Healthcare Wexford | Co-founder, Aumvedas Academy

At this time of year, cleavers starts appearing everywhere. It weaves its way through hedgerows, climbs over other plants, and sticks to your clothes as you pass.

Most people know it as “that clingy weed” and cut it back without a second thought.

It’s a pity – because it’s one of the most useful seasonal herbs growing right outside the door.

Cleavers (Galium aparine) has a long history of traditional use, particularly in supporting the lymphatic and urinary systems. While modern research is still developing, there is enough evidence, combined with long-standing herbal practice, to show it has a valuable role when used correctly.

What Cleavers Supports

Cleavers is best known for its effect on fluid movement in the body.

It supports the lymphatic system, which plays a key role in immune function and waste removal. When this system becomes sluggish, people may notice swollen glands, fluid retention, or a general sense of heaviness.

Cleavers helps restore movement. It works gently, without forcing the body, making it suitable for ongoing use over a period of time.

There is also a clear link between lymphatic congestion and skin health. Conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis can sometimes reflect what is happening internally. Supporting lymphatic flow may help improve these from the inside out.

In addition, cleavers has mild diuretic properties, helping the kidneys process and eliminate excess fluid. It is also recognised for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, which contribute to its overall supportive role.

How to Use Cleavers

Fresh cleavers is always the best option when available.

A simple way to use it is as a tea. A handful of fresh herb can be infused in hot water and taken once or twice daily. It can also be prepared as a cold infusion, which preserves some of its more delicate constituents and is particularly suitable in warmer or more inflammatory conditions.

Cleavers can also be taken as a tincture. A few drops added to a warm herbal tea such as nettle or red clover is an easy and practical way to take it.

For those who prefer a stronger approach, fresh cleavers juice has traditionally been used in small amounts.

As with any herb, consistency matters more than intensity. Taken regularly over time, cleavers supports the body in restoring proper flow.

Cleavers Benefits:

Strong, consistent evidence:

• Lymphatic support
• Diuretic action
• Skin link
• Anti-inflammatory properties

Emerging / suggestive:

• Immune modulation

A Simple Reminder:

Not everything useful comes in a bottle.

Sometimes the most effective support is already growing nearby – unnoticed and often removed before it’s ever given a chance.

Cleavers is one of those plants.

Sources:

Herbal Reality. Cleavers (Galium aparine) Monograph
https://www.herbalreality.com/herb/cleavers/

WholisticMatters. Cleavers Herbal Monograph
https://wholisticmatters.com/herb-detail/cleavers/

Verywell Health. Cleavers: Benefits and Uses
https://www.verywellhealth.com/cleavers-health-benefits-5084341

Boroja et al. (2020). Evaluation of antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity of Galium aparine
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7464609/

I hope you feel inspired. Look after your body, and it will keep you healthy.

Catherine

CWD 11 April 2026/Ireland

Holistic Healthcare Wexford
Integrative · Mindful · Patient-Centred

About the Author

Dr Catherine W. Dunne is a Registered General Nurse with over 37 years of clinical experience in primary care in Ireland. Alongside her work in General Practice Nursing, she is the founder of Holistic Healthcare Wexford and co-founder of Aumvedas Academy.

With a background that bridges conventional medicine and holistic practice, Catherine has a particular interest in the area where patients are often told “everything is normal,” yet still feel unwell. Her work focuses on helping people understand what their body is communicating, especially in relation to energy, stress, metabolic function, and recovery.

Through a combination of clinical knowledge and holistic support, she works with individuals to restore balance, improve resilience, and support long-term wellbeing.

Based in Wexford, Ireland.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Patients should always seek appropriate medical guidance regarding their individual health needs and before making changes to treatment or care.