I know spring is over, but I want to introduce you to cleavers (Galium aparine), commonly thought of as a sticky weed, but also one of the best herbs for supporting the body to purify the blood (called a blood-purifier) and a fantastic tonic for the lymphatic system.

Cleavers is known by many names, including goosegrass and sticky willy. I am fascinated with these weeds that lie outside our homes, just waiting for us to make use of them—that's why so many of my blogs are dedicated to them.

Here's a photo of cleavers growing right outside my front door under the yaupon, and a close-up for easier identification. You may recognize it: Cleavers is a trailing annual with stiff, prickly hairs covering the leaves and stems. Children love to pick it and stick it to their clothes. In centuries past, mats of it were used to strain milk and give it healing powers. Learn more about cleavers at AltNature.com, Healthy.net, and EarthNotes.Tripod.com.

Wendy Keeney-Kennicutt