Raspberry Leaf

Raspberry lf:

Rubus idaeus/ Rubus strigosus

                The tasty tart berry that is a summer staple in fruit salads, pies, tarts, and on their own is more than just a treat.  The leaf of the plant is a well known and widely used herbal remedy.  

Raspberry leaf, native to North America and Canada is a bitter, aromatic, astringent herb holds cooling tendencies.  It has long been known as a “woman’s herb” for its ability to aid in normalizing periods and many aids during pregnancy and labor.   Red Raspberry leaf has many therapeutic uses aiding in the relief of digestive disorders, treating diarrhea, fever, mouth sores (as a mouthwash) and support for a healthy heart, and is rich in vitamisn A, B, C and E.  The plant is also rich in anti-oxidants, and selenium.

            Raspberry leaf’s uses as a woman’s herb date back centuries.  It is used as a uterine tonic during childbirth and during menstruation, as well as during labor.  It's toning effects on the uterus makes child birth easier reducing stress on the uterus and is used overall for uterine health. Red Raspberry leaf is also helpful during the postpartum period by increasing milk production and reducing cramping. Use during menstruation can reduce cramps and normalize periods.

            Raspberry is also indicated for use in some eye disorders, it is known to be helpful for cataracts, retinal blood vessel damage and diabetes.

In use:

          

·         During pregnancy, a strong tea can be made into ice cubes and given as ice chips to women during labor.  It will aid with post-partum hemorrhage.

·         Red Raspberry Tea Recipe (How to use): Steep 1-2 tsps. Red Raspberry Leaf in 1 cup boiling water for 10-15 minutes.Drink up to 2-4 cups daily after the first trimester for aid in childbirth. Use this same tea recipe for a mouthwash gargle to rid mouth sores, or for other astringent uses in body function i.e. to fight symptoms of diarrhea or other digestive issues.

·         In case of leucorrhea (mucous discharge from genitals), raspberry leaf douche is made by simmering 1 tablespoon of leaves in 1 pint of water for 10 minutes, covered, cooled, strained, and used at room temperature.