By Dana Kraft
This is a seasonal tip relevant to springtime.
Collect a bunch of the ‘weed’ called Cleavers, which you’ll find growing almost everywhere in the UK in April and May. (See below for information on how to recognise the plant.) The most convenient and freshest way to take Cleavers is to have what is called a cold infusion. Pull or cut a handful of the herb, rinse well, and chop coarsely into pieces. Pour cold water over the plant, cover and leave to sit overnight. In the morning, strain off a cup of the liquid and drink it. It is a beautiful pale blue-green colour with a mild taste.
If you are not on any medication you can drink up to 3 to 5 cups per day, for up to one week. If you want to take any more, or if you are on medication, you should consult your health practitioner to check for any interactions and as longer term use of diuretics can deplete potassium levels.
What does it do?
Cleavers is a fantastic spring cleanser because it is believed to support the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is an often overlooked system in the body which contributes to keeping us healthy by removing larger unwanted molecules which the blood cannot easily accommodate. When the lymphatic system becomes congested phlegm and mucous can more easily accumulate, for example, leaving you with signs such as a nagging cough after a winter cold or an allergy, or even such chronic conditions as Fibrocystic Breast Disease. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, phlegm accumulation is considered a major contributor to long term chronic disease. Cleavers may help clear residues by giving the lymphatic system a kick-start. It is also a diuretic, thus supporting the kidneys to flush toxins from the system, reducing water retention, and through this cleansing action, could also help improve some skin conditions. It was also used traditionally to calm the nerves. By improving the health of the lymphatic system you are boosting your body’s immunity overall.
How to recognise the plant:
Cleavers (the Latin name is Galium aparine) is a classic British weed. It’s the famous ‘Sticky Willy’ which always grabs your clothes when you are out for a country walk. It often grows alongside another fantastic medicinal ‘weed’ – the Stinging Nettle. From April to the end of May it grows prolifically in gardens, as well as near hedges, field edges, park borders etc, in fact any where it can grow quite tall by hooking on to another plant for support. Be sure to choose carefully where you pick your plants, away from polluted roads or pesticide sprayed areas. Cleavers typically has delicate stems which grow up to 1.5m. Every few centimetres along the stems are ‘rings’ of splayed, slender leaves. By the end of May, it starts to seed so you can’t use the fresh plant any more.
Cleavers has a wonderful cleansing and calming nature about it, and my morning cold infusion is always a part of my spring routine which I look forward to after a long winter. Personally I find it inspiring that you can make something for yourself that’s extremely effective and completely free, courtesy of nature!
Alternatively you can take Cleavers as a dried leaf tea in a hot infusion, or in tincture form, available through a herbal supplier.
This tip comes to you from Dana Kraft (pictured left), a CNM trained Naturopath and Herbalist who practices Internationally.
See your natural health practitioner for any health related queries
Photo credit: Dendroica
