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Clivers Organic |
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Clivers Organic
CLIVERS - Organic
Galium aperine
History and Folklore
Clivers or Goosegrass is a truly cosmopolitan herb, having made itself at home practically everywhere it went or was inadvertently taken to. A relative of such botanical eminences as coffee and cinchona, the source of quinine, cleavers is mostly regarded as a lowly, invasive weed. Its common name goosegrass refers to the fact that geese are very fond of it, while clivers or cleavers as well as most of its local names refer to its clinging nature. At first the plant gives quite a straggly and feeble impression, but this is only half the truth. In fact it is quite tough and stringy, covered all over with tiny hooks that assist it in scrambling even through thick mats of undergrowth and hedgerow herbs. Clivers can reach an astonishing 9 feet in height. It is indeed rather clingy though, a clever device to utilize unsuspecting passers by as dispersal agents for its seeds. The seeds are edible and lightly roasted make a good substitute for coffee.
Medicinal Uses:
Clivers tend to be under utilized for medicinal purposes for it is indeed a most useful healing herb. Its action is cleansing and alterative. It clears obstructions, especially of the lymphatic system. Its primary action is on the kidneys, bladder and liver. It used to be used as a blood cleansing agent, especially for spring cleanses, but also when fasting. It is said to help those that suffer from obesity, but should be avoided in cases of diabetes. It is a powerful diuretic and helps to break down and eliminate stones. By its inner cleansing action it is indicated in all types of skin conditions that are due to impurities of the blood. It is even used as a remedy for ulcers, tumours and cancerous growth, both as an external application (ointment) and simultaneous doses of expressed juice. It is soothing as an application to irritable skin conditions and the effects of stinging nettles and older writers recommend it for the bites of venomous beasts, snakes and spiders.
Magical Uses:
Clivers is used in love magic. At midsummer's night (St. John's) girls would wind a wreath of clivers as they circled the midsummer fire and solemnly proclaimed a rhyme to the effect that their future loves should appear, either on the spot or at midnight in front of their beds. The clinging nature of this herb, also referred to as 'loveman', no doubt contributes to its magical use.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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