Cleavers “Galium aparine” During Pregnancy

[MaggieStudent]

A family member is very newly expecting and has developed a very large, swollen lymph gland in her neck. My first thought was to suggest cleavers to help relieve the lymph node and looked it up in the list of herbs to see its safety status. It is listed as safe both for pregnancy and lactation.

Another family member, however, went and Googled it to find that it may “stimulate uterine contractions.” Several sources advise against its use during pregnancy.

So, now I’m very curious! Thinking about the action of this herb (as a fledgling herbalist), I don’t feel there are grounds to believe it would cause contractions. But, is there a reason why it might, and it’s just not much of a risk? Or is that pure baloney? I’d love to hear from Doc Jones on this. I’m very intrigued.

Also, if she were not comfortable ingesting it, would the tincture applied topically have any affect in this case? Thanks in advance!!

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Jenny Bright

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