An herb for women at any phase of life 

If you have heard of red raspberry leaf it was likely from a pregnant friend, during your searches while you were pregnant, or perhaps you’re currently pregnant, and that’s why you’re reading this. Red raspberry leaf has long traditional use in pregnancy to strengthen and tone the uterus. While it does a wonderful job at that and should continue to be used for this purpose, its medicinal actions extend beyond pregnancy. No matter what phase of womanhood you are in, red raspberry leaf can be beneficial.

There are two main species of red raspberry leaf used, Rubus idaes- which is the cultivated species- and Rubus strigosus- which is the wild species. The leaf of either can be used. If you are gathering wild leaves just be sure they are not sprayed with herbicides and watch out for those thorns! Red raspberry is in the rose family, rosacea. If you’re buying it cultivated organic is always recommended.

Red raspberry leaf is energetically cooling and astringent, making it one of my favorite additions to any iced tea on a hot summer day. It also shines as an herb rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamins B, C, and E, which not only is great for all phases of womanhood but for men and children as well. Oh, and did I mention it tastes great?! It has a sweet-earthy flavor very similar to black tea. 

The Menstrual Phase

The first phase of womanhood red raspberry leaf can be supportive in, is the menstrual cycle. As an astringent and normalizer for the pelvic region red raspberry leaf is great for women with excessive bleeding or what is called menorrhagia. Calcium is an important mineral for PMS symptoms and your calcium blood levels begin to drop right before your period, making red raspberry leaves high calcium levels very beneficial to drink a few weeks before menstruation. A few other herbs that are high in calcium are nettle leaf, dandelion leaf, and oat straw- all of which are included in our Goddess Tea. 

Pregnancy and Red Raspberry

As a pregnancy tonic red raspberry leaf not only tones and strengthens the pelvic muscles but also relaxes them having an overall balancing effect on the uterus, which is also known as a uterine trophorestorative. Red raspberry leaf can also increase and enrich milk supply, prevent miscarriage, reduce morning sickness, is great for post-partum bleeding, and is supportive during uterine prolapse. The alkaloid fragarine in red raspberry leaves is to thank for this tonifying and relaxing effect on the uterus. Although considered safe during pregnancy, always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking red raspberry leaf.

Menopause and Red Raspberry Leaf

The last phase of womanhood red raspberry can be supportive in is during menopause. As a cooling herb red raspberry leaf is great for hot flashes. I love combining red raspberry leaf with sage leaf for this purpose. Uterine prolapse is common to see during menopause and red raspberry leaf can also be supportive here. 

My favorite way to prepare red raspberry is as a fresh or dry leaf infusion. For dry leaves use 1 Tbsp per cup and for fresh leaves use 2 Tbsp per cup. A tincture is suitable as well, but you will only get the vitamins and minerals of red raspberry leaf through an aqueous infusion (tea). 

For a well-rounded tea blend to nurture the feminine, regulate menstruation, ease PMS symptoms, and provide you with an abundance of vitamins and minerals check out our best-selling Goddess Tea blend!