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Raspberry Leaf

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Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus herb illustration

Photo: Peace656 · Public domain · Source

Raspberry Leaf

Rubus idaeus

Family: Rosaceae  |  Parts Used: Leaves

Raspberry Leaf is one of the most widely used herbs for female reproductive health, with a long history as a pregnancy tonic. Rich in calcium, iron, manganese, and vitamins A, B, and C, it has astringent and toning properties that address menstrual irregularities, nourish the womb during pregnancy, support labor preparation, and aid postpartum recovery. Safe and nutritive with a mild flavor, it is suitable for daily infusion and is also used to soothe gastrointestinal discomfort.

Reproductive Digestive Western Native American

Traditional Uses

  • Menstrual irregularities and cycle support
  • Nourishing the womb during pregnancy
  • Labor preparation (third trimester, under midwife guidance)
  • Postpartum recovery
  • Soothing gastrointestinal discomfort
  • Overall vitality and nutritive support

Properties

Key Constituents

  • Calcium
  • Iron
  • Manganese
  • Phosphorus
  • Vitamins A, B, and C
  • Tannins
  • Flavonoids

Preparations & Dosage

  • Infusion: 1-2 tsp herb in 1 cup boiling water, or 1 oz dried herb infused in 1 quart water. Up to 3 cups daily. Safe for children.

TCM Profile: Mild, bitter, cool.

Bonnie's Notes

I use red raspberry leaf regularly to help balance my hormones.

Cautions

  • Traditionally used in late pregnancy to prepare for labor, but should only be used in the third trimester and under midwife or healthcare provider guidance.
  • Avoid in early pregnancy, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
  • High tannin content may cause digestive upset in large doses.

Habitat & Growing Conditions

Native to North America, growing in USDA zones 2-7. Tolerates most soils but prefers moist, well-draining soil in full sun. Grows as a perennial shrub in temperate regions, producing fruit in summer.

Fun Fact: Raspberry leaf tea has been used as a pregnancy tonic by midwives and traditional herbalists for centuries. While it's best known for reproductive support, its high mineral content, particularly calcium and iron, makes it nutritionally comparable to some greens, which is one reason it became a staple daily infusion.

Related Articles

Sources & Research

The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, p. 184

Today's Herbal Health, Louise Tenney, p. 106

Published Research:

Ethnopharmacology of Rubus idaeus Linnaeus: A critical review on ethnobotany, processing methods, phytochemicals, pharmacological activities, and toxicological aspects | Journal of ethnopharmacology (2023)

Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) Seed Oil: A Review | Plants (2021)

Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory and Cytotoxic Activity of Phenolic Compound Family Extracted from Raspberries (Rubus idaeus) | Antioxidants (2022)

Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.), a Promising Alternative in the Management of Hyperglycemia and Dyslipidemias | Journal of medicinal food (2022)

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are under the care of a health care provider or taking prescription medication, check with your provider before using any herbal supplement.

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