Raspberry Leaf
rubus idaeus
Main active constituents
Polypeptides, flavonoids, mainly kaempferol and quercitin, tannins, fruit sugar, volatile oil, pectin, citric acid, malic acid.
Physiological Effects
Parts Used- Leaves and fruit
Traditional Use and Health Benefits
The fruit and leaves of the Raspberry bush have an extremely long history of human consumption that stretches all the way back to prehistoric times. Archaeological evidence shows that Paleolithic cave dwellers ate raspberries and this delectable fruit has been a part of the human diet ever since!
Whilst the Raspberry was prized for its sweet, juicy red fruit, the leaves were highly valued for their medicinal properties – especially for problems that affected the fairer sex. Teas, tisanes and tinctures prepared from the leaves have been extensively used to ease menstrual cramps, aid in childbirth, promote lactation and much more.
Raspberry Benefits
Digestive Health These succulent red berries are high in fiber, water and prebiotic compounds. The high fiber and water content can help to prevent constipation and keep the digestive tract healthy. Ensuring we are getting enough dietary fiber promotes regular bowel movements and helps to delay gastric emptying – meaning you feel fuller for longer.
The prebiotic compounds in Raspberries feed the healthy probiotic colonies that live in all areas of the digestive system. A healthy gut will enhance nutrient absorption which in turn will boost overall health.
Raspberries are a rich source of manganese, a compound that is needed to activate the necessary enzymes needed to metabolise cholesterol, amino acids and carbohydrates.
Raspberry leaf tea can also be consumed as a digestive tonic. It is effective in stimulating and harmonising the digestive system and can help in cases of nausea, indigestion, constipation and diarrhoea.
Weight Loss One of the biggest fads to hit the world of dieting in recent decades was the discovery of Raspberry ketones for miraculous weight loss.
Whilst some research has found that the ketones found in Raspberries do enhance lipid (fat) metabolism, it is always important to base any weight-loss regimen on a healthy diet and a program of exercise. The way ketones do this is by increasing levels of adiponectin, a protein which accelerates the breakdown of fat.
Another excellent reason to include Raspberries in a healthy weight loss plan is that they are fat-free and have a low glycemic index (GI). Low GI foods have a minimal impact on blood sugar, meaning your blood sugar levels won’t spike, leading to a crash that can trigger sugar cravings.
Women’s Health As a uterine tonic, Raspberry Leaf is hard to beat. Used for millennia to support women throughout their reproductive lives, Raspberry Leaf contains a plant alkaloid known as fragarine which has been found to simultaneously tone and relax the uterine muscle which helps to balance the muscular action of the uterus.
It also has astringent properties which work together with fragarine to help tighten and tone the uterine and pelvic muscles. This action can help to alleviate menstrual cramping, excessive bleeding and may be of assistance in cases of uterine prolapse.
Pregnancy / Childbirth Throughout pregnancy and childbirth, Raspberry Leaf has long been recommended by herbalists and midwives to help prepare the uterus for an effective birth. Its unique action in relaxing over tense muscles and tightening and toning over relaxed muscles, Raspberry Leaf enables the uterus to contract effectively during childbirth.
Many studies have backed up what were once thought of as “old wives’ tales” about this herb. In one study published in the “Australian College of Midwives Journal”, 108 mothers to be were divided into two groups. It was found that the group who consumed Raspberry Leaf products experienced shorter labor and neither the mother or baby had any identifiable side effects.
Furthermore, the American Pregnancy Association recommends that drinking the tea reduces the need for intervention in childbirth.
Postnatally, the astringent qualities of Raspberry Leaf act on the uterus, restoring tone whilst helping with bleeding and swelling. Additionally, it is thought to enrich breast milk and promote healthy lactation.
Contraindications/Precautions
There is some controversy around when to consume Raspberry Leaf during pregnancy. Most herbalists recommend starting around the 2nd or 3rd trimester. Please contact your healthcare practitioner before consuming Raspberry Leaf products during pregnancy.
Red raspberry leaf tea appears to be safe for most people.
When side effects appear, they tend to be mild. However, they’re still important to consider.
This herbal tea may have laxative properties and could cause loosening of stool in certain people. It may also have a mild diuretic effect and can increase urination (7Trusted Source). It’s important to consult with your doctor before consuming it.
Research suggests that the most optimal time to start drinking red raspberry leaf tea is at 32 weeks gestation. One study showed that taking 2.4 mg per day of red raspberry leaf in tablet form appears to be safe. As a tea, 1–3 cups per day are appropriate (8Trusted Source).
It’s recommended to limit your intake to 1 cup per day if you choose to consume it earlier in pregnancy.
If you experience Braxton Hicks contractions during pregnancy or have spotting in the second or third trimesters, you should discontinue use.
Disclaimer
This information is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.