Raspberry Leaf: A woman’s ally. The name “rubus” comes from the Latin meaning red, and “Idaeus” from the latin name Ida, the name of a mountain in Phrygia where the plant grew in abundance. For centuries, Raspberry leaf has been used throughout pregnancy to facilitate delivery and prevent miscarriage.
When I was pregnant with my daughter, I drank at least 1-3 cups of raspberry leaf tea a day throughout my entire pregnancy and in the months postpartum. I fell in love with the taste of it, and to this day it’s one of my favorite herbal teas! I had a healthy pregnancy, smooth delivery, and gentle healing after birth. I truly believe this herb had a lot to do with that.
OVERVIEW
HOW IT WORKS WITH THE BODY
Raspberry leaf is known as an astringent. You’ll notice when you taste the herb in a tea, the taste almost feels drying in your mouth. This is caused by it’s ability to tighten and tone the tissues of the mouth. It has the same effects within the body, which is one of the coolest and most helpful ways herbs work with our bodies! It’s astringency in our mouth is able to address inflammation in the mouth and throat and can be used as a mouth wash or gargle for spongy gums, mouth ulcers, or a sore and swollen throat. By the time it reaches other parts of the body such as the digestive tract, it works to slow the bowels and prevent excess fluid loss, then the uterus, where it tones and tightens the muscle.
Taken regularly, it’s ability to tone the uterus helps tremendously with menstrual discomfort such as cramping and heavy menses.
Taken during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester, helps prepare for birth and is valued for its ability to restore uterine integrity in the postpartum. It is recommended in cases of uterine prolapse, and herbalist Brigitte Mars states that “The leaf contains phytosterols (tannins). It strengthens the reproductive system, and relaxes smooth muscles in the uterus. It is often recommended in treatments for amenorrhea, anemia, dysmenorrhea, and menorrhagia.”
Raspberry leaves are considered highly nutritive, containing a number of essential nutrients: Aluminum, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Niacin, Selenium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Fiber Potassium, and more.
Due to the rich Iron content, it may be beneficial for those with anemia.
Extremely effective at addressing blood sugar levels and may lead to a reduced dependency on insulin for those with pre and type 2 diabetes.
CAUTIONS
Not recommended during first trimester of pregnancy.
It’s always best to try new herbs in small amounts and to consult with your physician prior to taking any new herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.
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*Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a replacement for professional medical/health advice. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Before taking any actions based upon such information, it is encouraged to consult with the appropriate professionals. Please consult with your physician prior to the use of any herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.