Raspberry leaf is one of my top herbs and probably the one I use the most because of its impressive nutrient content. I even include it in my homemade multivitamin tincture. Although it doesn’t taste like raspberries, it offers a mild flavor similar to black tea but without the caffeine kick.
Raspberry leaf is particularly famous for its benefits during pregnancy, but its rich nutrient profile makes it a fantastic choice for women at any life stage, supporting female health in various ways. Here’s why this herb stands out!
As the name suggests, raspberry leaf comes from the raspberry plant. Often called “the woman’s herb,” it’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, potassium, iron, calcium, and vitamins B, A, C, and E. The high B vitamin content is beneficial for easing nausea, soothing leg cramps, and improving sleep—all common pregnancy complaints.
Packed with vitamin C, raspberry leaf is also excellent during illness. I like using it in my favorite herbal teas for a little immune boost when sickness strikes. It tastes great, is soothing, and is safe for kids.
The unique mix of nutrients in raspberry leaf makes it incredibly helpful for the female reproductive system. It strengthens the uterus and pelvic muscles, which some midwives believe leads to shorter and easier labors. A study in a midwifery journal supports this idea, showing that women who consumed raspberry leaf during pregnancy were less likely to need interventions like a C-section or forceps.
Throughout my pregnancies, I’ve enjoyed raspberry leaf tea, even during the first trimester, though I advise talking to a midwife or doctor before incorporating any herbs during pregnancy. I also use it in a nursing mom’s herbal tea blend due to its safety and flavor, plus other benefits.
Raspberry leaf isn’t just for pregnant women. Many women find that it helps with PMS, endometriosis, menopause, and even boosts fertility. Its high vitamin and mineral content helps balance hormones and strengthen uterine and pelvic health.
Raspberry leaf also has astringent properties thanks to tannins. It’s soothing both internally and externally, helping with sunburn, eczema, and rashes when used as a tea or tincture. It’s also beneficial for oral health, easing gum issues.
I often drink it as hot tea in winter and iced in summer. I make a pregnancy tea blend by combining raspberry leaf, nettle leaf, and sometimes peppermint leaf for nausea relief. For those focusing on fertility, drinking three or more cups a day is recommended.
To prepare the tea, steep 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of raspberry leaf in 8 ounces of boiling water for about five minutes. I like to keep a gallon of cold tea in the fridge for convenience, using 3/4 to 1 cup of leaves per gallon of boiling water.
Start with one cup a day, gradually increasing to three cups if desired. You can also make a raspberry leaf tincture using similar proportions as a chamomile tincture; it’s versatile for skin issues or internal use.
Though some sources advise avoiding raspberry leaf in the first trimester due to concerns of miscarriage, I haven’t encountered evidence supporting this. However, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional during pregnancy.
I bulk order dried raspberry leaf to make tea, infusions, or tinctures—my kids love it too! Try raspberry leaf tea as a soothing nightcap or in your favorite herbal blends. It’s a delicious addition to any herbal remedy collection and one I highly recommend for women, pregnant or not.
This summary has been medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Greenleaf. Remember, this isn’t personal medical advice, so please consult your doctor for recommendations. Do you already use raspberry leaf, or are you thinking of starting? Let us know!
