Cleaver Herb is one of the best remedies for kidney and bladder troubles, especially when used with Uva Ursi, Buchu and Marshmallow root. Used as a love medicine by one tribe, the infusion of plant was used as a bath by women to be successful in love. It was also used as a hair tonic, said to be good for the hair, making it grow long. Several Native American Tribes used an infusion of the plant for gonorrhea. It was considered a marvelous remedy for the bites of snakes, spiders and all venomous creatures. Today, those trained in herbal science recommend dried cleaver's herb for the treatment of hypertension and bladder inflammation.
Herbalists have long regarded cleavers as a valuable lymphatic tonic and diuretic. In essence the lymph system is the body's mechanism to wash tissues of toxins, passing them back into the bloodstream to be cleansed by the liver and kidneys. This cleansing action makes cleavers useful in treating conditions like psoriasis and arthritis, which benefit from purifying the blood. Externally, a tea made from cleavers can be used as a skin wash to improve the complexion and treat skin disorders, and treat cuts and scrapes. The tea can also be put to good use as a hair rinse to fight dandruff.
Cleavers herb has been used in a variety of ways. It was theorized that in ancient times it was used as a love tonic. Though that may seem unlikely, there are more realistic uses for this herb. Some have used it as a topical agent for skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, and insect bites as it soothes itchy skin. It is most commonly used as a tincture for detoxifying the lymphatic system. Also good for treating urinary tract infections. Some have prepared it like spinach and ate it as an appetite suppressant for obesity. It can be used as a drink for detoxification, prepared like a tea it is high in vitamin C which boosts the immune system. The seed can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute. The roots are used as a red or pink dye.
Cleaver