Cleavers Have Healing Powers

As a blood purifier and lymphatic system tonic, cleavers (Galium aparine) is considered by herbalists to be one of the most valuable herbs around. It is used for swollen glands and skin conditions such as psoriasis, and there is also a long tradition of using cleavers for treating ulcers and tumors, since cleavers promote lymphatic drainage.
 
Here is a recipe for a treatment tea from herbalist David Hoffman: Pour a cup of boiling water onto two to three teaspoons of dried cleavers (the parts above the ground), and let steep for 10 to 15 minutes before drinking. Drink three times daily.
 
Because of its cooling properties, cleavers makes an effective poultice for scaldings and burns, and it is also a good treatment for fevers.