Raspberry Leaf Tea

The 'red raspberry' leaf (Rubus idaeus) is in fact a pale green leaf of the raspberry shrub which is packed with vitamins, minerals and tannins. Herbal tea, made from raspberry leaves is therefore healthy and is considered as a simple remedy for several body disorders. The tea is an energy drink. It is also known as a health drink.

To prepare raspberry leaf tea, add 1 ounce of the dried raspberry leaves in a pint of boiling water. Boil the water for 5 minutes, allow the leaves to steep for about 15 minutes and strain it, the medicinal tea is ready! You can enjoy it hot or cold, usually cold tea is preferred.

Herbal Tea Made from Raspberry Leaves

Health Benefits
Raspberry leaves are described as astringent in use, as they contain tannins. An astringent substance tends to constrict body tissues locally, after its application on a particular area. Raspberry leaves can help relieve inflammation and constrict the tissues of the intestines to prevent water loss. The tea made from the leaves therefore provides relief from diarrhea.

The tea works great for infertility in both men and women. The leaf is sometimes consumed along with red clover and the combination is often recommended to avail maximum benefits. Men and women should take raspberry tea regularly as a tonic.

The raspberry leaf and the powdered bark of slippery elm make an effective poultice for application to the skin to treat wounds, burns and scalds. Similarly, raspberry leaf tea can give immediate relief to mouth and stomach problems.

Regular use of the tea can reduce skin irritation, improving skin firmness. It works great for sore throat, as it soothes irritation of the oral cavity and helps get rid of gum diseases.

Consumption of the tea can be recommended to prevent dehydration and also to lower the level of blood sugar in diabetic patients. It is generally used to treat flu, stomach problems, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fever and rubella.

The tea helps regulate the menstrual cycle of a woman. Moreover, it helps reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

Before and During Pregnancy

As mentioned above, the tea made from raspberry leaves helps cure infertility in men and women, when taken regularly. Pregnant women as well as those wanting to get pregnant should take the tea as a tonic. More studies are required to explore the relationship between red raspberry tea and pregnancy.

Leaves of red raspberry are packed with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, B, C and E, potassium, phosphorus and calcium which are helpful for a pregnant woman in various ways. The tea boosts the immune system and thus helps improve overall health. The tea helps prevent miscarriages and promotes lactation. It is considered good for the baby as it promotes bone development in the baby.

The leaf is also rich in other nutrients like carotenoids and alkaloids like fragrine. Fragrine helps strengthen the muscles of the pelvic region and uterus. This results in easier, faster and less painful delivery. The tea does not induce labor, instead, it tones the pelvic muscles and muscles of the uterus to help reduce the pain during and after childbirth. It can improve blood circulation, help you get rid of morning sickness, prevent postpartum bleeding, relieve constipation. Raspberry tea being a natural remedy for so many disorders, is good for a pregnant woman.

Side Effects

Studies and researches have shown that raspberry leaf tea has no serious side effects. Consumption of the tea sometimes may cause nausea, increased Braxton Hicks contractions and diarrhea. Some may experience constipation. Raspberry leaves contain tannins which may be carcinogenic and long term use effects are still unknown.

Raspberry leaf is available in tablets, teabags, loose leaf tea and tincture form. During pregnancy, be sure that the tincture form of raspberry leaf is not alcohol based. Alcohol is not safe in pregnancy. Diabetic patients consuming raspberry tea need to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly as it may lower the blood sugar levels drastically. It would be wise to consult your physician if you wish to take the tea regularly.