Cleavers – “the lymphatic cleanser”

Cleavers (Galium aparine) has been called Love-man, Everlasting friendship, Gripgrass and Stickie-willie.

It is known as a lymph cleansing herb. Cleavers tea will clean the lymph system to help to resolve problems such as

• eczema,
• seborrhea,
• psoriasis,
• blemishes,
• recurring or eruptive infections and all skin disorders that can be improved by lymph cleansing.

You can use the tea as a skin wash to treat the problem from outside as well.

Lymph cleansing with cleavers helps to prevent lymphatic buildup and lymph toxins which can contribute to the development of

• breast cysts,
• tumors,
• glandular fevers,
• prostate infections,
• and urinary tract infections such as cystitis.

The best way is to cleanse your lymph system twice a year – in fall (before cold and flu season) and in spring (start fresh for the new season).
Drink cleavers tea every day for a week. It drains toxins from the lymph system, reduces swelling of the glands, and can ease congestion in the breasts.
It also stimulates the liver and enhances digestion and absorption of nutrients. Combine one tea bag of cleavers with one tea bag of liver-cleansing milk thistle. That way, you will get toxins out of the lymph system and liver faster.

Beneficial parts: leaves, stems and flowers

St. John’s wort – “a saint herb”

St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) has been known as a wound healer since 500 B.C.
The St. John’s wort oil can be used as dressing for

• burns,
• insect bites,
• bruises,
• deep cuts,
• injuries,
• sprains,
• tennis elbow,
• sciatica,
• surgical scars,
• and ease the pain of rheumatism and arthritis.

Traditionally the plant was cut as it came into flower, tops of the plants were picked and chopped and packed into jars of vegetable oil. The tincture or oil should turn burgundy red and have a strong and distinctive aroma.

This herb contains a key medicinal substance called hypericin, which is red pigmented. Crushed flower releases red juice - which became a symbol of the blood of St. John the Baptist. One legend claims that the plant grew from the blood of John the Baptist when he was beheaded, and the red oil from its glands represents his blood.

Hypericin protects the brain’s serotonin – the feel good chemical. When St. John’s wort is taken as a routine tea, it can lift depression, anxiety and irritability, menopausal syndrome, stabilize the emotions, and ease insomnia. The tea is cooling and bittersweet.
It may take 2-6 weeks to take effect.

St. John’s wort is also used as an excellent blood purifier. In addition, it is recommended for bedwetting, colds and gastric ulcers.

St. John’s wort is high in flavonoids; it’s antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal to fight disease. You can use flowers, leaves and stems in teas, tinctures, capsules or oil (for external use).

Caution: High doses may cause photosensitivity, especially in fair-skinned people. Anyone on antidepressant medication should check with a doctor before using this herb. St. John’s wort is contraindicated for the contraceptive pill. Short-term use is best.