Among the many theories of popular wisdom circulates that drinking raspberry leaf tea helps in various aspects of women’s health, especially during pregnancy and lactation. But what is the truth in these statements?
Once again, we have set out to unravel popular beliefs and find out if there is scientific evidence behind them or not. Can you come with us?
Benefits of raspberry leaf infusion
This infusion is one of the most recommended by specialists in Ayurveda medicine and it is easy to understand why: it is a plant that is easy to find, available on several continents, with a rich flavor and medicinal properties.
Let’s analyze together below what its health benefits are and whether or not they have scientific evidence to support them. As always, if you intend to switch to consuming raspberry tea regularly, consult your doctor first.
Improves fertility
Although we have not found scientific data to support this claim, raspberry leaf tea has been drunk since time immemorial to improve female fertility and allow conception.
Based on the information collected, it could be inferred that, perhaps, its action on the muscles and walls of the uterus would contribute to the general health of the mother’s reproductive system. So it could be true that it helps to get pregnant.
Relieves menstrual cramps
Drinking the infusion of raspberry leaves would help relieve the annoying cramps associated with menstruation. This is due to the presence of fragrin, an alkaloid that tones the pelvic muscles and the walls of the uterus, thus reducing muscle spasms that cause pain.
Calms the nausea of pregnancy
Some women claim that drinking raspberry leaf tea helped control and tolerate nausea in the first trimester of pregnancy. However, it should be noted that its consumption is usually recommended from the second trimester, since it is believed that it could stimulate the uterine muscles and cause a premature abortion. These data, however, are not confirmed.
Makes labor easier
This is one of the most widespread uses, especially among those women who are close to their due date or have already passed it. Drinking an infusion of raspberry leaves is said to help trigger labor and make it shorter and easier.
Although there are no data in this regard, it is true that different studies observed a decrease in deliveries requiring medical intervention (such as the use of forceps) among those women who regularly consumed this infusion.
This could be related to the action of the nutrients of the leaves on the muscles of the uterus: it would act giving them greater flexibility and strength, and these two variables would be of vital importance at the time of vagienal delivery.
Increases milk production during lactation
It is believed that its consumption during lactation would favor the increase in milk production. However, there is no data to corroborate this information. We recommend consulting with your doctor before consuming raspberry leaf infusion on a regular basis.
You have antioxidant properties
Various investigations have corroborated the antioxidant potential of forest fruit plants, including: raspberry. The leaves of this plant provide flavonoids and tannins, two polyphenols with antioxidant activity that help fight free radicals.
Let us remember that free radicals are molecules that trigger oxidative damage that generates inflammation and the appearance of degenerative diseases, as well as premature aging.
It is nutritious
Did you know that raspberry leaves provide various nutrients such as vitamins A, C and E and iron, calcium and potassium? Thus, it could be a good nutritional accompaniment.
Raspberry leaves
As you can imagine, the leaves of the raspberry, or Rubus idaeus, a perennial plant belonging to the Rubus genus, are used to prepare this infusion. Originally from Europe and North Asia, its fruit, the raspberry, has become famous throughout the world. However, its leaves are also popular when used to prepare this infusion to which all kinds of health benefits are attributed.
This shrub can reach 2.5 m in height and usually grows wild in forests or meadows. It usually reproduces easily, which is why its cultivation in the home is very simple, although it is necessary to take into account that it is an opportunistic plant that usually reproduces in any free space it finds. Thus, it is easy to find several plants in the same area.
History of raspberry leaf tea
As usually happens every time we talk about tea or various infusions, there is no documented information about its creation. However, it is believed that raspberry leaf infusion was used as early as the 16th century to improve women’s health naturally.
Alternative medicine since ancient times recommended the consumption of this infusion to regulate the menstrual cycle and alleviate its typical discomforts. Also, it was ensured that it would contribute to a better work of the pelvic muscles, facilitating their stretching during pregnancy and helping to have a better delivery. Is there any truth in all this?
How to prepare the infusion
Preparing this infusion at home is very, very simple. You can choose to buy dried raspberry leaves at your trusted herbalist or, if you have a plant at home, use them fresh.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of dried raspberry leaves or 2 tablespoons of fresh leaves
- 1 cup of water
Elaboration
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Let stand a minute and add the appropriate amount per cup of water.
- Cover and let infuse for 5 minutes.
- Strain and drink!
In conclusion, the infusion of raspberry leaves would be mainly beneficial for female consumption, although who can resist it