Introduction

Cleavers is an herb with prickly thorns. The leaves and flowers have been used to increase urine flow to ease bladder problems. Cleavers has also been applied to the skin as a cream to ease swelling in skin problems such as wounds and psoriasis. It can be taken as a pill, powder, or extract. Cleavers can also be made into a tea.

What Research Shows

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It may be safe to use cleavers on the skin and to take it orally in small doses for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. It is also not known whether it is safe to take by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.