Galium aparine

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Galium aparine is a species of flowering plant in the coffee family, Rubiaceae. It is native to North America and Eurasia, and is commonly known as cleavers, goosegrass, catchweed, or stickyweed.

Description[edit | edit source]

Galium aparine is an annual herbaceous plant that can grow up to 1-3 meters in height. The leaves are simple, whorled, and have a rough texture due to tiny hooked hairs. The flowers are small, white, and are produced in clusters. The fruit is a small, spherical capsule covered in hooked hairs which allow it to stick to fur and clothing.

Distribution and habitat[edit | edit source]

Galium aparine is native to a wide region of Europe, North Asia, and North America. It is commonly found in hedgerows, woodlands, and along riverbanks. It prefers moist, shaded locations.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Galium aparine has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is believed to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and lymphatic system benefits. However, scientific evidence to support these claims is limited.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Galium aparine is considered a weed in many areas due to its ability to spread rapidly and its resistance to many common herbicides. However, it can be easily controlled by hand-pulling or hoeing.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External links[edit | edit source]

Galium aparine Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD