Clivers

Galium aparine

Clivers or Cleavers is an herb used for horses with urinary problems or skin complaints. It is known as a blood cleansing herb.
Clivers or Cleavers is an herb used for horses with urinary problems or skin complaints. It is known as a blood cleansing herb.

Clivers (Cleavers) or Goose grass is known as a ‘blood purifier’.  As it is a diuretic it is traditionally used for lymphatic, urinary, kidney and skin problems as well as for ulcers and tumours. It is a mild laxative and lowers blood pressure. It is also high in silica, a mineral which is beneficial for the coat, and needed to strengthen hooves and bones.

Clivers can be used internally or externally for skin problems such as greasy heel, psoriasis, hoof abscesses, windgalls or any filling in the legs.

As with many herbs, Clivers is considered to be a weed and if you are considering growing this useful herb it may be restricted by quarantine in many parts of Australia.