CLEAVERS Galium boreale

Description: Plant

Weak stemmed, fast growing annual; small narrow stemless leaves in whorls or circles at intervals along main stem; tiny white flowers in clusters at stem ends; fruits are small, round burrs in pairs.

Habitat:

Wooded areas or open fields, stream banks, moist soil.

Uses:

Athabascans use this plant externally in ways similar to Caribou leaves - i.e., as a switch in steam baths. They say it is especially good as a hot pack for aches & pains. It makes a pleasant tea & may be used as a diuretic & to promote weight loss (Vie­reck). Galium is a member of the same family as coffee. The ripe fruits of Galium may be gathered, roasted (250°-300°) until brown, ground & brewed like coffee. Bedstraw is a fragrant herb good for stuffing pillows or even (as the name suggests) mattresses. 

Special Harvest or Processing Comments: