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Pharmacy Links

HERBS: RASPBERRY

March 30, 2009

Rubus idaeus

Action: Uterine tonic, antispasmodic, astringent, diaphoretic.

Systems Affected: Uterus and female reproductive system, digestive tract, mucous membranes. Preparation and Dosage (thrice daily): Dried leaves, dose 1-5 grams by infusion.

Known and used since prehistory for its delicious fruit, the Raspberry is a native of Eurasia. Called Batos Idaia by the Greeks and Rubus Idaea by the Romans, its name reflects its origins, rubus being from the Latin for red and idaea, meaning ‘of Mount Ida’ referring to the mountain in Asia Minor where it grew in natural profusion.

Apart from the fruit, the leaves of the plant have long been esteemed as a female tonic, being especially of benefit when taken as an infusion during the course of pregnancy to ensure an easy, trouble-free birth. As the Australian herbalist Dorothy Hall explains in her Herb Tea Book:

A cup of this tea each day during the first few months of pregnancy can provide folic acid, iron and copper salts, plus vitamin A and Ñ in good proportion . . . During the last few months of pregnancy, raspberry leaf tea tones and strengthens the pelvic muscles and ligaments to help with an easy, normal birth. Should a rash appear around your pregnant middle, you could be taking too much . . . Curb your enthusiasm and reduce the number of cups you drink each day.

Taken regularly and in small doses as a tonic during pregnancy, it often serves to remove any tendency towards morning sickness. It regulates contractions and reduces pain during labour, providing easy and speedy parturition. It helps to prevent haemorrhage, assists milk secretion and hastens post-partum recovery.

Taken in larger doses, it is of benefit in painful menstruation, vaginal discharge (either as a tea or as a douche) and prolapse of the uterus, where its effect is to tone and strengthen the muscles and ligaments which support the uterus.

It is employed in treating a variety of female complaints, for which purpose it is often combined with other herbs. Part of its effect is attributable to fragarine and other substances, which act as both uterine muscle stimulants and relaxants.

Raspberry leaf will allay nausea and is useful in chronic and acute diarrhoea. It is also a reliable treatment for colds, flu and fever.

The herb is mild and safe to use with children. The expressed juice of the fruit is nourishing in convalescence and for weak stomachs.

*45/66/5*