Cleavers

Galium aparine

Evidence: BFamily: Rubiaceae

Premier lymphatic mover and gentle diuretic that drains congested lymph nodes and supports urinary flow. One of the safest and most reliable alteratives for acute swollen glands across virtually all species.

Consult Your Veterinarian First

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before using herbal remedies for your pet — especially if they are on medication, pregnant, or have existing health conditions.

Species Safety

An herb safe for one species may be toxic to another.

Dogs

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Cats

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Horses

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Rabbits

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Birds

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Guinea Pigs

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Dosing Guide

General guidance only — always consult your veterinarian.

SpeciesFormDoseFrequencyNotes
Dogsglycerin tincture0.25-0.5 drops /lbtwice dailyLymphatic and urinary protocols; pair with red clover.
Catsglycerin tincture3-6 dropstwice dailyFLUTD and lymphatic stagnation; long-term safe.
Horsesdried herb20-40 gramstwice dailyFilled legs and lymphatic congestion.
Rabbitsdried herb2-5 gramsonce dailyFresh preferred; daily forage acceptable.

Active Compounds

Iridoid glycosides (asperuloside)(glycoside)
Coumarins (low)(glycoside)
Flavonoids(flavonoid)
Tannins(tannin)

Compounds marked Cat Unsafe (phenols and many terpenes) cannot be metabolized by feline livers.

Quick Info

Plant Family

Rubiaceae

Parts Used

whole plant, leaf

Available Forms

dried herb, tea, glycerin tincture, alcohol tincture

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