Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)

Dried leaves of Rubus idaeus, the red raspberry plant. Among the most universally documented herbs for women's wellness in Western herbalism, raspberry leaf has traditional use in pregnancy, postpartum, and as a general uterine tonic. The leaves are also a versatile gentle daily tea.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Rubus idaeus

Family

Rosaceae

Native region

Europe and Northern Asia; cultivated worldwide for fruit and leaves

Common uses

Women's wellness tea, pregnancy tonic (consult midwife/healthcare provider), gentle daily tea

Compounds

Fragarine (a uterine tonic alkaloid), tannins, flavonoids, minerals

What is Raspberry Leaf?

Red raspberry is a familiar fruit-bearing plant native to temperate Europe and Asia. The leaves have a separate and distinct herbal use from the fruit, with a long tradition particularly in connection with women's reproductive wellness. The active alkaloid fragarine is considered the primary uterine tonic compound; the leaves also contain notable mineral content and tannins.

How to Use Raspberry Leaf

For tea: steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaf per 8 oz cup in hot water for 10 minutes, then strain. The flavor is mild and slightly astringent, often described as similar to a light black tea. Raspberry leaf is commonly consumed daily as a gentle tonic tea, particularly during pregnancy and postpartum (under midwife or healthcare provider guidance).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is raspberry leaf used for?
Traditionally for women's wellness, particularly as a uterine tonic during pregnancy and postpartum. Also used as a gentle daily mineral-rich tea.

Is raspberry leaf safe during pregnancy?
Raspberry leaf has a long traditional use during pregnancy, but practices vary by trimester. Consult a midwife or healthcare provider; some traditions advise starting in the second or third trimester only.

What is fragarine?
An alkaloid in raspberry leaf considered the primary uterine tonic compound.

What does raspberry leaf taste like?
Mild, slightly astringent, similar to a light black tea.

Can I drink raspberry leaf if not pregnant?
Yes; raspberry leaf is a gentle daily tea suitable for general use.

How does raspberry leaf differ from the fruit?
Different parts of the same plant with different uses. The fruit is the familiar berry; the leaf is the herbalist part.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.