Red raspberry leaf

Benefits of Red Raspbery Leaf

When most people think of the Rubus idaeus or its wild relative Rubus stigosus they only think of its luscious fruit. Yet, to many people the true value of the raspberry plant lies not within its fruit, but within its leaves. The medicinal applications of red raspberry leaf are specific and flexible. The benefits of its use reflect the nature and constituents of the plant. First, the leaves are described as astringent in use. The result of an astringent is the contraction of tissue. This is brought on by tannins found in a plant. The action of tannins as an astringent can be effective in soothing inflammation and constricting the tissues of the intestines to prevent water loss. The tannin content of red raspberry leaf an effective treatment to soothe diarrhea or intestinal inflammation, especially in children. Red raspberry leaf is of high value to women as well. There is a well respected lineage of use of the leaf for aid during pregnancy and delivery. This happens for several reasons. First, the leaves contain high concentrations of many needed vitamins and minerals as a result of the plants secondary compounds. Vitamin C and vitamin E are present in large amount as well as vitamin A and some B complex. Vitamin C is also an anti-inflammatory agent that works well with the anti-stress B vitamins to protect the body from the additional ware and tare of pregnancy. Increased vitamin A intake in the form of the carotenoids of red raspberry leaf can aid the women’s immune system and well as facilitate healthy skin and bone development for the baby. Carotenoids are of the terpene class of secondary compounds of plants. Vitamin E serves to promote better circulation in the mother who is dramatically increasing her blood volume during pregnancy. Red raspberry leaf also contains many essential minerals such as phosphorus, potassium and an easily assimilated form of calcium. An increased availability of calcium is necessary in controlling nerve response to pain during childbirth in aiding bone development in the fetus. Rubus also contains fragrine, an alkaloid which explains its use as a powerful aid to women. The alkaloids of the leaf help to tone the muscles of the pelvic region including the uterus. This allows the uterus to contract more powerfully and effectively during labor. Also, many midwives report that it aids in focusing the pre-labor contractions that help a woman’s uterus to prepare for delivery. As if that were not enough, all the wonderful benefits of red raspberry leaf apply post childbirth as well. The high vitamin and mineral content help replace those via blood loss during delivery. Also, the alkaloids will continue toning the uterus as it returns to its usual size. In many women, the high mineral content may even help their milk to come in. The leaves of the raspberry plant have been used over the centuries by Native Americans, Europeans, and both Aryuvedic and Chinese medical practitioners. Often dried and taken in the form of a medicinal tea, the leaves provide a host of medicinal and nutritional benefits along with a pleasant taste. Currently, it is a popular herb among alternative health care practitioners and midwives. The evidence of safety and effectiveness of the leaves is well substantiated by both science and practical application.