What is the best way to eat cleavers for health and flavor?

Cleavers, also known as Goosegrass or Sticky Willy, have been used as a spring tonic and cleansing herb for centuries. This article explores what is the best way to eat cleavers, detailing different preparation methods to help you enjoy this nutritious wild edible.

Quick Summary

Cleavers can be consumed in various ways, with young shoots being edible raw in infusions or smoothies, and older parts best cooked to remove their bristly texture. The choice of preparation depends on the desired health benefit and culinary application.

Key Points

• Young shoots are best for raw use: Tender, raw cleaver shoots are ideal for infusions, smoothies, and salads, especially in early spring.

• Cooking removes bristles: To avoid the sticky texture of mature cleavers, blanch or boil them before adding to soups, stews, or pasta.

• Infusions support lymphatic health: The cold infusion method is traditionally used as a detoxifying spring tonic to support the lymphatic system and kidneys.

• Roasted seeds make a coffee substitute: The dried, roasted seeds of cleavers can be ground to create a caffeine-free alternative to coffee.

• Nutrient-dense pesto: Blending blanched cleavers into a pesto is a delicious way to incorporate its vitamins and minerals into your diet.

• Forage responsibly: Always gather cleavers from clean, pesticide-free areas and only take what you need, leaving some for wildlife.

• Consult a professional: Always consult a healthcare provider before using cleavers medicinally, especially if pregnant or on other medications.

Foraging and Identifying Cleavers

Before you can decide what is the best way to eat cleavers, you must first be able to identify and safely forage the plant. Galium aparine, the scientific name for cleavers, is a common annual plant found in hedgerows, woods, and disturbed grounds. It is easily recognized by its square stem, and whorls of six to eight leaves that are covered in tiny hooked hairs, allowing it to cling to clothing. Always forage responsibly by collecting from areas free of pesticides, herbicides, and vehicle pollution. It is also essential to harvest when the plant is young and tender, ideally in early spring, as older plants become stringy and fibrous.

The Best Ways to Eat Cleavers

Raw Cleavers: For Infusions and Smoothies

The simplest and arguably most potent method to enjoy cleavers' cleansing properties is to use the fresh, young plant raw. This is the best way to eat cleavers if you are seeking a purifying, lymphatic tonic.

Cold Infusion

This method is a traditional preparation for a spring detox and is known for creating a mild, pleasant cucumber-like flavor.

Instructions:

1. Gather a handful of young cleavers shoots.
2. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Roughly chop the shoots and place them in a glass jug or jar.
4. Cover with fresh, cold water.
5. Allow to infuse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
6. Strain the liquid and drink throughout the day. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a squeeze of lemon.

Green Smoothies

Adding young cleavers to a smoothie is a quick and effective way to consume the plant. The blender breaks down the plant's texture, making it more palatable.

Instructions:

1. Combine a handful of washed, young cleavers with fruits like apple, cucumber, or mango.
2. Add a liquid base, such as water, apple juice, or green tea.
3. Blend until smooth and enjoy. For a creamier texture, add yogurt.

Cooked Cleavers: For Soups and Sauces

If you are using more mature cleavers or simply prefer a smoother texture, cooking is the way to go. Blanching or boiling the shoots removes the bristly hairs and mellows the grassy flavor.

Cleavers Pesto

Creating a pesto is a delicious way to enjoy cooked cleavers, especially when combined with other wild greens like nettles.

Instructions:

1. Blanch two cups of fresh cleavers and one cup of nettle leaves in boiling water for 10-20 seconds.
2. Drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to preserve the vibrant green color.
3. Combine the blanched greens with garlic cloves, nuts (e.g., walnuts, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds), nutritional yeast, salt, and olive oil in a food processor.
4. Blend until you achieve your desired consistency.

Herbal Tea

Cleavers tea can be made from either fresh or dried leaves and is another popular method for consumption.

Instructions:

1. Steep 10-15 grams of cleavers (fresh or dried) in one cup of hot water for 10-15 minutes.
2. Strain and serve. You can add honey or lemon for flavor.

Roasted Seeds: The Coffee Alternative

As cleavers are in the coffee family, their seeds can be roasted and ground to make a caffeine-free coffee substitute.

Instructions:

1. Gather the tiny, hairy seed pods that appear later in the season.
2. Dry the seeds completely.
3. Lightly roast the seeds until fragrant.
4. Grind the roasted seeds and brew like coffee.

Comparison of Cleavers Preparation Methods

Method	Best Foraging Time	Texture	Flavor Profile	Primary Benefit
Raw (Infusion/Smoothie)	Early Spring (tender shoots)	Smooth (infusion), Pulpy (smoothie)	Mild, cucumber-like, grassy	Lymphatic cleansing, diuretic, detox
Cooked (Soups/Pesto)	Early Spring to Summer (before seeding)	Soft, palatable	Milder, less bitter	Improved digestibility, nutrient incorporation
Roasted Seeds (Coffee)	Summer (when seeds form)	Powdery, fine	Coffee-like, rustic	Caffeine-free alternative

Nutritional Profile and Health Benefits

Cleavers is not just a versatile edible; it also offers a variety of health benefits. It is rich in Vitamin C and contains other minerals such as silica and sodium.

• Diuretic and Lymphatic Support: Cleavers is primarily known for its diuretic properties, which promote urine production and help flush toxins from the body. It is often used as a lymphatic tonic to reduce swollen lymph nodes and promote lymphatic flow.
• Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: Cleavers possesses anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for soothing inflammatory conditions. It is also an antioxidant, protecting against free radicals.
• Skin Health: In traditional herbal medicine, cleavers is used both internally and externally to treat a variety of skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne, due to its cooling effect.
• Digestive Aid: Cleavers has been used to soothe the digestive tract and may help with constipation.

Safety and Precautions

While cleavers are generally considered safe, some precautions should be taken.

• Allergic Reactions: A mild to moderate allergic reaction, including contact dermatitis, is possible for some individuals. Start with a small amount to see how your body reacts.
• Medical Conditions: Due to its diuretic effects, caution is advised for individuals with kidney disorders or those on diuretic medication. Those on blood-thinning medication should also be cautious due to the plant's coumarin content.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before using cleavers.
• Dosage: As with all herbal remedies, it is best to start with a small amount and not use it for an extended period without a break.

Conclusion: Your Cleavers Consumption Plan

Ultimately, there is no single best way to eat cleavers; the ideal method depends on your health goals and culinary preferences. For a simple and purifying spring tonic, a cold infusion of young shoots is highly effective. If you prefer to minimize the texture or use more mature plants, cooking them into soups, pesto, or pasta is a great option. For a unique, caffeine-free beverage, consider roasting the mature seeds. By understanding the plant's properties and preparing it appropriately, you can safely and deliciously incorporate this nutritious wild edible into your diet.

Visit The Old Farmer's Almanac for more information on the benefits of cleavers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat cleavers raw?

Yes, but only the very young, tender shoots, which are best used for cold infusions or smoothies. The bristly hairs on mature plants are best removed by cooking.

What does cleavers taste like?

It has a mild, grassy, and refreshing taste, often compared to cucumber or green tea. The flavor can become stronger or bitter as the plant matures.

Is cleavers safe for everyone?

While generally considered safe, those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on certain medications (like blood thinners or diuretics) should consult a doctor first. An allergic reaction is also possible.

What are the health benefits of eating cleavers?

Cleavers are known for their diuretic and lymphatic cleansing properties, and they are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C.

How do you identify cleavers for foraging?

Look for a creeping plant with square stems and whorls of six to eight lance-like leaves, covered in tiny hooks that cling to clothing, giving it the name 'sticky willy'.

Can you use dried cleavers for tea?

Yes, dried cleavers can be used to make tea. To prepare, steep 10-15 grams of the dried herb in one cup of hot water for 10-15 minutes.

When is the best time to harvest cleavers?

For eating, it's best to harvest the fresh, young shoots in early spring before they start to flower and become fibrous. This ensures the best texture and flavor.

Are there other uses for cleavers besides eating?

Yes, cleavers have been used topically as a poultice for skin conditions and historically, the dried plant was used to stuff mattresses and pillows.