03/28/2026
This weekend is the perfect time to pick fresh cleavers! They are great for a Lymphatic cleanse, detox, and urinary health support! Cleavers are also one of the rare herbs that offer much greater medicinal benefits when used fresh rather than dried. I am busy making some cleavers medicinals this weekend, and so I decided to share with you what I use them for:
1) Tinctures - made with 80 proof alcohol, these are the strongest medicinal forms of this herb. Excellent for all types of cleansing and detox. These are generally available in 4-6 weeks. Pick them in the start of spring and make enough for all year - they have a wonderful shelf-life!
2) Glycerites - made with food-grade vegetable glycerin and water, these are sweeter and gentler medicinal products that are great for those with a compromised system, children, those who prefer an alcohol-free preparation, and energy work. Glycerites are also gentle enough for you to take every day or to stay on them long-term. For energy work, Cleavers is fantastic for all types of sacral work, relationships, and those struggling with co-dependency.
3) Infused Oils - I generally use Jojoba or MCT for infused oils for super long shelf-life. When making the oil, you can use the dried herb, but the medicinal value will be significantly reduced. Due to the cleavers' high water content, they can create mold in your oil. To minimize that, you let your dried cleavers wilt for about 24 hrs before infusing them in oil. You can use tea tree or oregano EO to reduce the risk of mold in the blend. Infused Cleavers oil is excellent for Lymphatic massage (reduces breast tenderness, Joint and leg swelling), skin issues such as dry, chafed, infected, or burned skin, and to reduce tissue stagnation.
4) Decoction - this recipe comes straight from my best friend Barbara ( ). Add your fresh cleavers to a mason jar, rinse them well, and fill the jar with water. Place the jar in the fridge for 24 hours, and then drink the decoction for a powerful cleanse!
Time to get Cleavin'!
