Family: Rosaceae

Part Used: leaves

Energetics & Taste: Astringent, cooling, and drying.

Habitat: It is native to Europe and Asia but can grow in disturbed areas of temperate regions. 

Key Benefits: Red raspberry is a highly nutritive herb, rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamins B, C, and E. Known for its astringent properties and ability to normalize the pelvic region, red raspberry leaf is especially beneficial for women experiencing excessive menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia. The high calcium content in red raspberry leaf helps alleviate PMS symptoms, as calcium levels tend to drop right before menstruation. Drinking red raspberry leaf tea a few weeks before your period can be very beneficial.

As a pregnancy tonic, red raspberry leaf offers a unique combination of toning and strengthening the pelvic muscles while relaxing them, resulting in an overall balancing effect on the uterus. This makes it a uterine trophorestorative. Additionally, red raspberry leaf can help increase and enrich milk supply, prevent miscarriage, reduce morning sickness, support post-partum bleeding, and aid in cases of uterine prolapse. The alkaloid fragarine in red raspberry leaves is responsible for these tonifying and relaxing effects on the uterus.

Contraindications: Consult a medical professional if you want to take it early in pregnancy.