Cleavers

Habitat & Origin

Cleavers (Galium aparine) grows in light, moist forest edges, hedges, verges, and meadow transitions throughout Europe and West Asia. The plant is known for its small hooks on leaves and stems, with which it attaches itself to anything passing by. For infusions, young spring stems are cut when the plant is still juicy and the green tones are softest. Because cleavers wilt quickly, they are immediately spread out to dry in thin layers. Maison Tisane looks for fresh green, flexible pieces with a bright, grass-herbal scent—no yellowed nodes or lignified parts—so that the infusion retains a soft, airy green tone.

Active compounds

Cleavers contains fine iridoids, green flavonoids, and soft grass-like aromatic components that give a light, bright green signature. These compounds create a mild, transparent herbal layer — clean, quiet, and subtly refreshing. In blends, cleavers works as a soft lightener that rounds off sharp tones and builds a clear, botanical base.

Ayurvedic approach

Cleavers carries an airy, cool signature that mainly soothes Pitta and gives Kapha light movement. Due to its soft dryness, it can offer Vata clarity and order without irritating. In European herbal traditions, cleavers was considered a 'field weaver': a plant that attaches itself and brings subtle connection. Energetically, it feels like spring air through tall grasses — fresh, slightly astringent, and kindly structuring.

Flavour profile & Blending