Bio-health Raspberry Leaf 500mg 60 Vegetarian Capsules

RASPBERRY LEAF Rubus Ideaus (family: Rosaceae)

HABITAT AND CULTIVATION

Native to much of Europe, Raspberry grows wild in hedgerows and woodland clearings. It is much cultivated for its fruit, as far north as Norway and is propagated by suckers.

CONSTITUENTS: Tannins; polypeptides; flavonoids

ACTIONS: Astringent, aids preparation for childbirth.

PHARMACOLOGY/RESEARCH

Research conducted in the 50’s onwards indicates that Raspberry leaf has a direct action on the muscles of the womb during pregnancy. Its value in preparing the womb for labour is not established but there is a great deal of anecdotal evidence to support its traditional use as a parturient. As with all tannin-rich remedies, it has a marked astringent activity. It contains appreciable levels of calcium.

CAUTIONS: In pregnancy, take only during the last three months.

PARTS USED: Leaves

KEY INDICATIONS: To aid childbirth, painful or heavy menstrual bleeding, stimulates breast milk production, sore throats (as a gargle), vaginal discharge (as a douche), conjunctivitis (as an eyewash).

INDICATIONS

Raspberry leaf has traditionally been used as a remedy for the latter stages of pregnancy, being taken for roughly the last trimester at a moderate dosage (infusion – about 1 cup a day). It is thought to stimulate the longitudinal muscles of the womb and to relax the cervix, thereby increasing the effectiveness of contractions. It may also be used to relieve nausea during pregnancy and to prevent miscarriage (usually with other herbs). Its astringency makes it a valuable remedy for heavy menstrual bleeding and it can help to reduce spasmodic period pains.

Used as an astringent wash for wounds in the past, Mrs Grieves recommends a mixture of Raspberry leaf infusion and Slippery Elm powder to speed healing of wounds, burns and irritated skin. As an infusion, it may be used to relieve diarrhoea, tightening the bowel and reducing irritability, e.g. in diverticulitis. Whether as a gargle, douche or eyewash it will serve well in relieving sore throats, mouth ulcers, gingivitis, vaginal discharge and conjunctivitis. It has a reputation as an oestrogenic herb and has been prescribed by herbalists for menopausal problems. Given its high calcium content it has been recommended as a long term supplement to prevent the onset of osteoporosis.

COMBINATIONS

With Black Cohosh and/or Wild Yam for spasmodic period pains

With Black Cohosh and Sage for menopausal problems

With Cranesbill for diarrhoea