Herb library

Raspberry Leaf

Rubus idaeus

Raspberry leaf is a gentle, familiar herbal tea from the Rubus idaeus plant, traditionally used in family medicine for easing mild digestive upset and supporting women's monthly comfort. It is a staple for simple teas and pausing to breathe with a warm cup at home.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally used as a mild astringent to soothe loose stools and gentle digestive discomfort.
• •Traditionally taken as a gentle tonic for uterine and menstrual comfort during monthly cycles, often used by women as a supportive infusion.
• •A long-standing household remedy for sore throats and mouth irritation when used as a warming gargle or compress.

Simple preparations.

• •Simple tea: steep 1 heaping teaspoon dried raspberry leaf or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped leaf in 1 cup freshly boiled water, cover and steep 10 to 15 minutes, strain and drink up to three times daily.
• •Stronger infusion for menstrual comfort: use 1 to 2 tablespoons dried leaf per cup, cover and allow to steep 20 to 30 minutes, strain and sip warm, up to two cups a day during the heaviest days.
• •Warm compress or gargle: make a strong infusion with 2 tablespoons dried leaf per 2 cups boiling water, steep 20 minutes, strain; use cooled to warm as a throat gargle, or soak a cloth and apply as a warm compress to the lower belly.

Cautions.

• !Mild astringent action can cause constipation in sensitive individuals, reduce use if this occurs.
• !People with known allergy to members of the rose family may react to raspberry leaf.
• !Honey preparations should not be given to children under one year of age.
• !If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a chronic health condition, check with your doctor before using raspberry leaf.

Often kept beside.