Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) has been a trusted herbal ally for centuries—especially for women—nourishing the body before, during, and after pregnancy. But while it’s earned its reputation as a “fertility herb,” Raspberry leaf is far more than that. Rich in minerals and deeply restorative, this gentle yet powerful plant supports vitality across all stages of life, for all people.

A Womb Whisperer and Systemic Strengthener

Raspberry leaf contains a compound called fragarine, which gently tones the uterine muscles—offering support for smoother menstruation, a more efficient labor, and postpartum healing. Its astringent nature, paired with its high iron content, makes it particularly helpful in reducing excessive bleeding and nourishing the blood—key for those who are anemic or recovering from birth.

For those trying to conceive, Raspberry leaf’s mineral-rich nourishment helps create optimal conditions for fertility by strengthening uterine tissues and supporting hormonal balance. And for those who are postpartum, Raspberry leaf can aid the uterus in regaining tone and help replenish nutrients lost during childbirth—supporting both physical recovery and emotional well-being.

But its gifts don’t stop at fertility.

Raspberry leaf is just as beneficial for:

• Easing painful or heavy menstruation
• Balancing irregular cycles
• Reducing PMS symptoms
• Supporting nutrient absorption throughout the body

Not Just for Women

While often associated with the womb, Raspberry leaf’s benefits reach beyond the female reproductive system. Its high levels of calcium, magnesium, and other trace minerals make it a nourishing tonic for all bodies. Mineral-rich plants like this support healthy tissue tone, nervous system function, and overall resilience. And yes—men benefit from this herb too, especially when it comes to fertility, vitality, and stress support.

Energetics & Safety

• Taste & Energy: Mildly bitter, cooling, and dry
• Actions: Uterine tonic, galactagogue, astringent, nutritive
• Systems Supported: Female reproductive, circulatory, endocrine
• Caution: Raspberry leaf is naturally drying. To avoid imbalance—especially in postmenopausal individuals or those with a dry constitution—it’s best combined with moistening herbs like Oatstraw or Marshmallow root when taken long-term.

---

MATERIA MEDICA: Raspberry Leaf

Latin Name: Rubus idaeus
Common Name: Red Raspberry
Parts Used: Leaf
Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)

Botanical Description

Raspberry is a perennial plant with biennial canes. The first-year canes produce large, green-silver compound leaves and no flowers. The second-year canes branch out with smaller, flower-bearing leaves, eventually forming the familiar red berry. Each berry is actually a collection of small drupelets surrounding a hollow core, and the stems are woody and bristled.

Constituents

Flavonoids, tannins, volatile oils, vitamins, minerals (especially calcium, magnesium, and iron), pectin, ellagic acid

Energetics

Cooling, drying

Primary Affinity: Uterus, reproductive system, blood

---

Preparation & Dosing

Tea:

• Steep 1 oz (about 1/4 cup) in 1 quart boiling water for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
• Drink 1–2 cups daily for long-term support.

Tincture:

• 2–4 mL of a 1:5 tincture, up to three times daily (*Dosage per David Hoffmann, Medical Herbalism)

---

Traditional Herbal Formula: Nourishing Mineral Tea

(Adapted from Aviva Romm, MD)

• 2 parts Raspberry Leaf
• 2 parts Nettle
• 1 part Oatstraw
• ½ part Alfalfa
• ½ part Rose Hips
• ¼ part Red Clover
• ¼ part Spearmint

🌿 To Brew: Mix all herbs and store in an airtight jar. Add a heaping ¼ cup to a quart jar, cover with boiling water, steep for 30 minutes to 2 hours, strain, and sip warm or cool. This tea is deeply nourishing and especially helpful for building blood, easing tension, and toning the reproductive system.

---

And Don’t Forget the Berries!

The vibrant red raspberry fruit is a powerhouse of antioxidants, vitamin C, and bioflavonoids. These nutrients help protect the body from free radical damage caused by pollution, stress, and aging—making them not just delicious, but deeply protective.

Adding fresh or dried raspberries to your tea blend brings both flavor and function—offering sweetness and additional immune support.

---

A Plant for All Seasons of Life

Whether you are menstruating, postpartum, perimenopausal, or simply seeking more nourishment from your daily rituals, Raspberry leaf invites you to root down, restore, and replenish. A true tonic herb, it strengthens slowly and steadily, like building a foundation brick by brick.

You don’t have to be pregnant to drink Raspberry leaf tea—you only have to be ready to receive deep nourishment from the heart of nature.