Red Raspberry Leaf
Rubus idaeus
红树莓叶
Pinyin: Hóng Shù Méi Yè
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Part Used
Leaf
Origin
Europe, North America, Asia; cultivated worldwide
Safety Level
Safe
Overview
Red raspberry leaf is the leaf of the common raspberry plant. It has been used for centuries as a women's health tonic, particularly during pregnancy and for menstrual health. It is considered safe and gentle enough for long-term use. The active compound fragarine is believed to be responsible for its effects on the uterus.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
neutral
Flavors (五味)
astringent, sweet
Meridians (归经)
uterus, spleen, liver
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Uterine tonic - tones and strengthens uterine muscles
- Pregnancy support (used in 2nd and 3rd trimesters to prepare for labor)
- Menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding
- PMS symptoms
- Postpartum recovery (tones uterus after birth)
- Diarrhea (astringent effect)
- Sore throat (gargle)
- Wound healing (topical)
- Digestive complaints
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Most commonly used as tea, but also available as tincture, capsules, and tablets. Raspberry leaf tea is a pleasant-tasting herbal tea that can be consumed daily. It is often combined with nettle and oatstraw for a nutritive pregnancy tea.
Suggested Dosage
Tea: 1-2 tsp dried leaf per cup, steeped 10-15 min, 1-3 cups daily. For pregnancy: 1-3 cups daily starting in 2nd trimester. Capsules: 500-2000mg daily. Tincture: 2-5ml 2-3 times daily.
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Spring to early summer, before the plant flowers (young leaves are highest in nutrients). Leaves are picked on dry days and dried at low temperature.
Quality Indicators
Green leaves with mild, pleasant taste. Should be free of stems, berries, and brown/black spots. Organic is preferred to avoid pesticide residue. Wild-harvested can be excellent if properly identified (but be sure of identification! many similar leaves).
Storage
Dried leaves: airtight container, cool dark place, 1-2 years. Best within 6-12 months for maximum potency and flavor.
Safety Information
Contraindications
First trimester of pregnancy (uterine stimulant - some practitioners advise avoiding first 12 weeks)History of miscarriage or threatened miscarriage (consult provider first)High-risk pregnancy or history of preterm labor (consult OB/GYN)Contraindicated in conditions where uterine stimulation is undesirableBreastfeeding: generally considered safeGenerally very safe for most women
Possible Side Effects
- Very safe and well-tolerated
- Loose stools (in large doses - tannins usually cause the opposite)
- Mild nausea (in some pregnant women)
- Increased Braxton Hicks contractions (in late pregnancy - normal toning effect)
- Allergic reaction (extremely rare)
- Note: There is a common misconception that raspberry leaf induces labor. It TONES the uterus, it does not START labor.
Drug Interactions
- Very low interaction risk
- Antidiabetic medications (may lower blood sugar - mild)
- Blood thinners (very mild effect from vitamin K)
- Generally safe with most medications at tea doses
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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