Red Raspberry

Botanical name: Rubus idaeus

Parts used and where grown

Raspberry bushes are native to North America and are cultivated in Canada. Although most well known for its delicious berries, raspberry’s leaves are used in medicine.

Red raspberry has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Science Ratings	Health Concerns
	Common cold/sore throat Diarrhoea Pregnancy and postpartum support
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Science Ratings

Health Concerns

Common cold/sore throat

Diarrhoea

Pregnancy and postpartum support

Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars

Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star

For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

Raspberry leaves have been used by herbalists to treat diarrhoea. In traditional herbalism and midwifery, red raspberry has been connected to female health, including pregnancy. It was considered a remedy for excessive menstrual flow (menorrhagia) and as a “partus prepartor,” or an agent used during pregnancy to help prevent complications.¹

Active constituents

Raspberry leaves are high in tannins and like its relative, blackberry, may relieve acute diarrhoea.² The constituents that affect the smooth muscles, such as in the uterus, have not yet been clearly identified. The German Commission E monograph has concluded there is insufficient proof to recommend red raspberry in modern herbal medicine.³

How much is usually taken?

Traditionally, raspberry leaf tea is prepared by pouring 1 cup (250 ml) boiling water over 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 grams) of the herb and steeping for ten to fifteen minutes. Up to 6 cups (1500 ml) per day may be necessary for acute problems such as diarrhoea or sore throats due to a cold, while less (two to three cups [500–750 ml]) is used for preventive use during pregnancy. By itself, raspberry is usually not a sufficient treatment for diarrhoea. Tincture, 3/4–1 teaspoon (4–8 ml) three times per day, may also be taken.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Raspberry leaf may cause mild loosening of stools and nausea. Otherwise, use of the herb appears to be safe.

Are there any drug interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with red raspberry. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.

References

1. Lust JB. The Herb Book. New York: Bantam Books, 1974, 328–9.

2. Tyler VE. Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals. Binghamton, NY: Pharmaceutical Products Press, 1994, 52, 139.

3. Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, et al. (eds). The Complete Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications, 1998, 366.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.