Digestive support

Cleavers is also used to support digestion in horses. The herb has a mild cleansing effect and can be helpful when intestinal activity is sluggish or when waste products accumulate in the body. For horses that are sensitive to feed changes, experience bloating, or show signs of a strained digestive system, cleavers can offer support by helping the body process and eliminate waste products more effectively.

Lymphatic system support

The most well-known use of cleavers in horses is to support the lymphatic system. The herb is known for stimulating lymph flow and aiding in the removal of waste products. Horses with a slow-working lymphatic system—often visible as swollen legs (stocking up), fluid retention, or a generally “puffy” appearance—may benefit from cleavers.

Circulatory support

In addition to the lymphatic system, cleavers also has a supportive effect on circulation. Traditionally, the herb is used to promote circulation and can contribute to improved flow of both blood and lymph. This makes cleavers particularly interesting for horses that tend to have cold legs, are stiff when starting work, or need extra circulatory support due to age or prolonged periods of rest.

For fluid retention and edema

Cleavers is often used for horses that retain fluid, such as edema in the legs, lower abdomen, or sheath/udder area. The herb supports the body in regulating fluid balance and can help gently eliminate excess fluid without disrupting the body’s natural balance.

Support for skin and coat

Cleavers is regularly used as part of a holistic approach to skin issues. By supporting the elimination of waste products through the lymphatic system, the herb may indirectly benefit skin health. It is therefore often used for horses with dandruff, bumps, susceptibility to mud fever, or a dull coat—especially when these issues may be linked to internal overload.

Supporting recovery after illness or strain

After illness, infection, intensive training, or prolonged medication use, a horse’s body may need extra support during recovery. Cleavers is then used to support the body’s natural cleansing processes and aid recovery, particularly when the horse appears “puffy” or recovers slowly.

Support for older horses

In older horses, the lymphatic system may become less efficient. In such cases, cleavers is often used to support the elimination of waste products and help maintain overall vitality, especially when stiffness, fluid retention, or reduced resistance are present.

In conclusion

Cleavers is a valuable herb in the natural support of horses, particularly when the lymphatic system, digestion, fluid balance, and waste elimination require extra attention. By carefully observing the horse’s signals and using cleavers in a targeted way, it can be a valuable addition for your horse. Cleavers truly is a healthy extra! And in liquid form (for example as an apple vinegar macerate), it can also be a wonderful addition to a horse’s mineral buffet.