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Cleavers Topical / Poultice

A traditional salve preparation using Cleavers (Galium aparine), addressing lymph, kidney support, skin health.

salveswestern-herbalismIntermediate⏱ 10–20 minutesShelf life: 6–12 months stored in a cool, dark placeDosage: 1–2× daily as needed

Generated from this herb's full profile — safety warnings, contraindications, and sourcing.

Benefits

LymphKidney SupportSkin HealthUTILymph SupportDetox

Ingredients

  • Cleavers — As needed

Instructions

  1. Mash fresh Cleavers or mix the powder with a little water to form a paste.
  2. Apply to the affected area for 20–30 minutes.

Interactions & contraindications

  • Active liver disease — monitor liver enzymes with long-term use
  • Significant kidney impairment — diuretic herbs may worsen renal function

No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for Cleavers in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on Cleavers itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.

Pregnancy

Use Caution

This herb is processed through the liver, which is already working harder during pregnancy — generally used cautiously and not at high/concentrated doses without guidance. This is a general, mechanism-based caution, not herb-specific research.

Breastfeeding

Use Caution

Liver-processed compounds can appear in breast milk — generally used cautiously and in moderation.

Children

Use Caution

A child's liver is still developing its full drug/herb-processing capacity — these herbs are generally used cautiously and at reduced, age-appropriate doses.

May have a diuretic effect

Watch for: Diuretic medications and lithium

Additive fluid loss can affect electrolyte balance and change how the body clears lithium.

Processed by the liver

Watch for: Any medication that is also processed by liver enzymes (ask your pharmacist — this includes many common prescriptions)

Can alter how quickly the body clears certain medications, raising or lowering their effective dose.