Used for centuries by women, particularly before, during, and after pregnancy, raspberry leaf is one of the most well-known herbs for women, and one of the most commonly used herbs for women's health. Raspberry leaf is also high in minerals, which means it is particularly nourishing for the entire system and has wide-ranging effects far beyond fertility. Raspberry leaf contains a substance known as fragarine which tones the uterus, it is also said to nourish the muscles and help prevent hemorrhage due to its high iron content and astringent qualities. This is particularly helpful in strengthening the uterine muscles in order to make labor shorter and easier. It is also helpful in reducing potential hemorrhaging during and after the birth. The toning action also helps to reduce miscarriages in women with a prior history. Post-birth, drinking raspberry leaf tea can help the uterus regain tone quicker, making for a faster recovery, as well as being nourishing to both the mother and the new child. Nourishment is particularly important in reducing potential post-partum depression in women, as this is most commonly caused by nutrient deficiencies. Because it is so high in minerals, it is nourishing to the entire system and has benefits beyond fertility and pregnancy. It can help to relieve painful menstruation, balance the hormones, reduce excessive menstruation, and more. Its high iron content can be helpful for women who are prone to anemia. So while historically, this herb is used by women who are pregnant, or wanting to get pregnant, it is also a highly nourishing herb that is wonderful for women of all ages and child-bearing inclinations. It's not just for women either, all people regardless of their sex can benefit from the high nutrient content of raspberry leaf tea. Male fertility is just as crucial when considering the over-all fertility picture, and the healthier the parents, the healthier the baby. It is a drying herb however, so it is important to mix it with other herbs to counteract this effect if you are intending to take it for long periods of time. This especially applies to women post-menopause or people who tend to have a drier constitution to begin with. 
MATERIA MEDICA: RASPBERRY LEAF
Latin Name: Rubus idaeus Common Names: Red Raspberry Parts Used: Leaf Botanical Description:A perennial with biennial canes, raspberry grows to about 0.5-3 m in height. In the first year, it produces only leaves, and in the second year produces lateral branches (floricanes) from which grow leaves and flowers. The leaves are green on top and silvery grey/white beneath. First-year leaves are large, pinnate and compound leaves with five to seven leaflets. Second-year plants grow smaller leaves with three or five leaflets. Flowers appear in spring from second-year shoots and have five white petals. The red fruit is a technically a collection of drupelets around a core; when the berry is picked, the drupelet detaches and has a hollow core. Stems are woody with bristles (Tirmenstein, 1990).
- Tea 1oz in 1 quart of water, up to two cups a day
- Tincture: 2-4 mL 1:5 tincture taken three times per day.*
- *Dosage information from Medical Herbalism by David Hoffman
- uterine tonic
- galactagogue
- nutritive
- astringent
- Considered the premier uterine tonic
- Excellent for dysfunctional uterine bleeding, reduces clotting
- Will normalize the cycle and uterine contractions during menses
- Strengthens the myometrium
- Is a mineral concentrator, especially Mg and Ca which is very supportive for the menstrual cycle
- Helps to decrease PMS symptoms
- 2 parts Raspberry leaf
- 2 parts Nettle
- 1 part Oat straw
- 1/2 part Alfalfa
- 1/2 part rose hips
- 1/4 part Red Clover
- 1/4 part Spearmint