Although there isn’t much solid research on the topic, there are valuable benefits of raspberry leaf tea during pregnancy. These benefits are particularly important at the end of pregnancy, such as strengthening the uterine muscles, shortening labor, and reducing labor pain.
However, there is concern about the safety and effectiveness of raspberry leaf tea. Therefore it is advised to have this tea from the 32nd week of pregnancy onwards.
What is red raspberry leaf tea?
Red raspberry leaf tea is a herbal remedy made from the dried leaves of the red raspberry bush. Historically, it has been used as an ingredient for natural medicine for supporting respiratory, digestive, and uterine health. It is also used for prostate support and alleviating stomach issues in children.
Contrary to its fruity name, the flavor is similar to a fragrant black tea.
What are the health benefits of red raspberry leaf tea?
Nicknamed “the woman’s herb,” raspberry leaf is rich in alkaloid fragrine, which can aid strengthen the uterus and pelvic area.
Some of its benefits include:
- Healthy nutrients: it’s rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, and E, iron, calcium, and potassium
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Alleviates menstrual pain
- Supports reproductive health
- Improves uterine health
- Eases labor pain
- Lowers rates of pre-term and post-term births
- Reduces the need for labor interventions
- Shortens labor
- Helps regulate postpartum hormones
- Helps alleviate bloat and water retention
Can raspberry leaf tea induce labor?
Many doulas, midwives, and mums recommend drinking red raspberry leaf tea to help with labor. However, there is controversy around its presumed effectiveness. Some studies show that it does help shorten labor and resulted in fewer medical interventions, while other studies found a marginal difference between the mothers who had the tea and the ones who did not.
Based on word of mouth though, it is known to make a difference by boosting blood flow to the uterus and strengthening the uterine muscle fibers. This then helps the labor process by triggering contractions and protecting the uterus from excessive postpartum bleeding.
While there are no studies showing any negative effects of the tea, drinking it in moderation, is only recommended from the 32nd week of pregnancy to be on the safe side. Like all good things, it’s important not to overdo it and to keep a balanced diet during your pregnancy.
How much red raspberry leaf tea can you drink during pregnancy?
Since this is a herbal supplement, it is good to check with your doctor or midwife before drinking raspberry leaf tea or taking it as a tablet.
Having one to three cups a day is fine after your first trimester. Do stop if you feel any discomfort or strong contractions.
Will you try red raspberry leaf tea?
In conclusion, although there’s no strong research to prove or disprove it, red raspberry leaf tea is known to be a safe herbal supplement for women during pregnancy.
It’s definitely a herbal supplement worth giving a try once you have checked with your health practitioner and it might even be worth it if you’re not pregnant!
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Until next time, Tania xx
*This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.