Wild Harvesting - Northern Bedstraw (Galium boreale)

Northern Bedstraw also commonly known as Clevers (it flowers eventually - little white flowers that grow in little forked clusters - if you search the net you can find lots of photos:)

Northern Bedstraw is related to coffee, the seeds can be dried, roasted and ground as a coffee substitute. The leaves and roots are often used to make tea. It is considered the fantastic lymphatic tonic, and is both alternative and diuretic. It has a long tradition of using in reducing tumors. A cautionary note continual use of this plant can irritate your mouth. It is suggested that people with poor circulation and diabetes avoid it!

Traditional Uses:

• Bladder Health Maintenance
• Bronchitis
• Cellular Regeneration
• Cleansing
• Detoxification
• Fever
• Immune System
• Infections
• Inflammation
• Respiratory Health Maintenance
• Skin Infections
• Swollen Glands
• Ulcers
• Urinary Tract Gravel
• Urinary Tract Infection
• Water Retention

More interesting Points:

• Bedstraw plants were used to make sweet-smelling hot compresses to stop bleeding and soothe sore muscles.
• Bedstraw tea has been used as a weight loss aid. It is said to speed up the metabolism of stored fat and to reduce weight in about 6 weeks.
• In the past decoctions of it were often used as a contraceptive.
• Diaphoretic and Diuretic
• A number of species in this genus contain asperuloside, a substance that produces coumarin and gives the scent of new-mown hay as the plant dries. Asperuloside can be converted into prostaglandins (hormone-like compounds that stimulate the uterus and affect blood vessels), making the genus of great interest to the pharmaceutical industry.
• The fresh juice of bedstraw has been used for treating scurvy.
• The herb tea was used internally and externally as a folk remedy against abnormal growths and the juice contains citric acid, which is reported to have activity against abnormal growths.

Dosage

• Juice: Blend the fresh herb in a food processor and strain. Drink half a glass a day.
• Infusion: Pour boiling water over 3-4g of cut Cleaver and allow to steep for 10 minutes before straining. Drink two to three cups per day. The cooled infusion can also be used as a wash or poultice for inflamed skin.
• Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops in water, as required.

Sources:
http://montana.plant-life.org/species/galium_boreale.htm
http://www.florahealth.com/flora/home/Canada/HealthInformation/Encyclopedias/Bedstraw.htm
http://www.health24.com/natural/Herbs/17-666-676,33341.asp