Red raspberry leaf, or Rubus idaeus folium, refers to an herbal substance containing dried, chopped leaves that a person can prepare into tea. Some evidence suggests the leaves contain bioactive compounds that benefit health. However, further research is still necessary.
Red raspberry leaf tea is a herbal remedy that people have used for
As some evidence also notes that the remedy contains vitamins, minerals, and other compounds that may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, the beverage may also have potential uses beyond pregnancy.
This article explores the potential health benefits of red raspberry leaf tea, possible risks, and how to prepare the tea.
Red raspberry leaf contains many nutrients and minerals, including:
Red raspberry leaf also contains molecules known as
Flavonoids are also present in red raspberry leaf. Flavonoids are natural molecules present in many plants that
Red raspberry leaf also contains ellagic acid, which is present in some fruits and vegetables and may possess antioxidant and anticancer properties. It may also help protect the liver.
Some possible benefits of red raspberry leaf tea may include the below.
Labor and pregnancy
While people have used red raspberry leaf to help with pregnancy for years, researchers are still investigating how this herbal remedy may help. Some
Many companies may sell products they call pregnancy tea, which will often contain red raspberry leaf. While more research is necessary, supporters of the herbal remedy suggest people can consume it safely during pregnancy and help a person prepare for birth. It also states that pregnant people can drink 1–3 cups per day safely.
Antioxidant activity
Red raspberry leaf contains
An
Oral lichen planus
Oral lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that results in inflammation of the mucosal surfaces of the mouth. It results in lesions and ulcers and can be painful.
A small 2015 study found that red raspberry leaf extract helped reduce pain symptoms and ulcers by the end of the trial. Additionally, oral symptoms improved, and the researchers did not observe any adverse effects. This suggests that red raspberry leaf may be beneficial in treating symptoms of oral lichen planus.
Other benefits
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) notes that red raspberry leaf tea may help treat:
- minor spasms associated with menstrual periods
- mild mouth inflammation
- mild throat inflammation
- mild diarrhea
There is currently a lack of robust research regarding the health benefits of red raspberry leaf. A
Additionally, red raspberry leaf tea may not be suitable for all pregnant people. In a
- people whose previous labor was 3 or fewer hours
- people who have had or are planning to have a cesarean delivery
- those who previously experienced premature labor
- those with any vaginal bleeding in the second half of the pregnancy
- people with a family or personal history of breast or ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or fibroids
- people expecting a baby in the breech position
- those with any complications or health problems during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure
- those expecting twins
At present, evidence suggests 1–3 cups a day of red raspberry leaf tea is a generally safe dose. However, because some evidence indicates the tea may cause contractions, it is not advisable for people to consume the remedy before the third trimester. Additionally, individuals should reduce or stop drinking this tea if they experience strong Braxton-Hicks contractions. The EMA also notes that only adults should consume the tea.
To make a cup of red raspberry leaf tea, a person should first take about 1 teaspoon of crushed or dried raspberry leaves and place it into a cup. They then pour boiling water into the cup and let it steep for at least 5 minutes. They can then drink the tea.
Alternatively, people can follow any instructions on the tea’s packaging or buy red raspberry leaf tea bags, which they can steep in boiling water for 5 minutes before drinking.
Red raspberry leaf tea is an herbal remedy that contains many nutrients, minerals, and other potentially beneficial compounds. Some evidence suggests this remedy may help during pregnancy and labor, although this requires more thorough research. Before consuming red raspberry leaf tea, a person should discuss this with their doctor.
Other research suggests it may also help with menstrual spasms, inflammation, and diarrhea. An individual can prepare red raspberry leaf tea at home with loose leaves or tea bags and boiling water.