I love the common names of this native weed, Galium aparine, Cleavers also spelt Clivers, Catchweed, Sticky Willy, Bobby’s Buttons, Stickeljack, Goosegrass, Whippystick, and many more localised names. Obviously, the majority of these names refer to the ‘Velcro’ like ability to attach parts of the plant, especially the seeds to any passing animal or item of clothing. Apart from its use in folk-medicine it was traditionally used to stuff mattresses, hence it’s other common name of Bedstraw, the clinging ability was useful for maintaining a uniform thickness within the mattress. Astoundingly Cleavers are in the same family as coffee…
This weed is edible as a young plant, the usual, treat like spinach, but is generally consumed as a tea. A long time ago it was drunk as a ‘cure’ for gonorrhoea, obviously pre antibiotics, ahh, the ‘good old days.’ It is however, still used in helping Urinary Tract Infections, as well as helping in Detoxing. It’s probably best known for helping Psoriasis due to its ability to reduce swelling. Psoriasis being an autoimmune disease, exacerbated by inflammation. Apparently, it is a powerful diuretic and helps break down and eliminate kidney stones. This tea has a lovely enjoyable woody flavour.
It goes without saying that if you're pregnant (or are under the doc for anything) caution should be exercised with herbal decoctions.
