raspberry Leaf

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

raspberry leaf is a natural herb that has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes for nearly centuries. The action and spectrum of the raspberry leaf can vary depending on how it is used, but some of the most commonly reported benefits include the following: 

• Anti-inflammatory: raspberry leaf has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help decrease swelling and inflammation in the body. 
• Uterine tonic: raspberry leaf has been traditionally used as a uterine tonic to help tone and strengthen the uterus during pregnancy and labor. It is believed to help prepare the uterus for childbirth and may also help reduce the risk of complications during delivery. 
• Hormonal balancing: Phytoestrogens, compounds found in raspberry leaves, are known to replicate the effects of estrogen in the human body. This may help regulate hormonal imbalances in women and alleviate premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. 
• Antioxidant: raspberry leaf is a rich source of antioxidants, helps protect the body in case of free radical damage, and may help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. 
• Digestive aid: raspberry leaf has been traditionally used as a digestive aid, as it may help soothe digestive upset and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication 

• Allergy: People allergic to raspberries or other plants in the Rosaceae family may also be allergic to raspberry leaf.  
• Pregnancy: raspberry leaf is traditionally used to help tone and strengthen the uterus during pregnancy, but there is limited research on its safety. Some healthcare providers may advise against using raspberry leaf during the first trimester or if you have a history of premature labor or other pregnancy complications. 
• Surgery: raspberry leaf may have a mild blood-thinning effect and could increase the risk of bleeding during or after surgery.  
• Diabetes: raspberry leaf may lower blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes who are taking medication to lower their blood sugar levels should use raspberry leaf cautiously and closely monitor their blood sugar levels. 
• Hypertension: raspberry leaf may have a mild blood pressure-lowering effect, so people with low blood pressure or taking medication to lower their blood pressure should use raspberry leaf cautiously and monitor their blood pressure levels closely. 

Caution 

• Dosage: raspberry leaf is generally considered safe when used as directed, but taking too much could lead to side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.  
• Interactions: raspberry leaf may interact with certain medications, including blood-thinning medications and medications used to treat diabetes. If you are taking medication, it is vital to consult with a physician before using a raspberry leaf. 
• Quality: The quality of herbal supplements can vary, so it is essential to purchasing raspberry leaf from a reputable source to ensure that it is pure and free of contaminants. 
• Duration of use: raspberry leaf is traditionally used during the later stages of pregnancy and for a limited period after delivery. Using raspberry leaf for an extended period may have unknown effects. 
• Children: raspberry leaf has not been studied extensively in children, so it is not recommended for use in children without the supervision of a healthcare provider. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: N/A 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show risk to the fetus in the first/later trimester.        
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women        
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.       
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.        
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.        
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

The pharmacology of raspberry leaf is not well understood, and further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action. However, some studies suggest that raspberry leaf may contain several bioactive compounds that could be responsible for its traditional uses, including: 

• Tannins: raspberry leaf contains high levels of tannins, which are a type of polyphenol that may have astringent and anti-inflammatory effects. 
• Flavonoids: raspberry leaf also contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that may help to protect against cellular damage and inflammation. 
• Fragrine: raspberry leaf contains a compound called fragrine, which is believed to help tone and strengthen the uterus during pregnancy. 
• Vitamins and minerals: raspberry leaf is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, E, and A, as well as iron, calcium, and potassium. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacodynamics of raspberry leaf is not well understood, and further research is needed to fully understand how it interacts with the body.  

• Uterine tonic: raspberry leaf has long been used as a uterine tonic, believed to help tone and strengthen the uterus. It may achieve this effect through the compound fragrine, which is thought to help regulate uterine contractions and prepare the uterus for labor. 
• Anti-inflammatory: raspberry leaf contains high levels of tannins with anti-inflammatory properties. This may help to reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions. 
• Antioxidant: raspberry leaf contains flavonoids, which may help protect against cellular damage and decrease the risk of chronic disease. 
• Astringent: raspberry leaf has astringent properties, which may help to tighten and tone tissues in the body. This may help to alleviate symptoms associated with diarrhea and other digestive issues. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

The bioactive compounds in a raspberry leaf are believed to be absorbed in the digestive tract. 

Distribution 

It is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. 

Metabolism 

Once absorbed, the compounds in a raspberry leaf are thought to undergo metabolism in the liver, where they may be broken down and excreted from the body. It needs to be made clear which specific enzymes or metabolic pathways are generally involved in the metabolism of raspberry leaf. 

Elimination and Excretion 

As for excretion, some of the compounds in the raspberry leaf may be eliminated from the body via urine or feces, but more research is needed to fully understand the excretion of the raspberry leaf and its metabolites. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

raspberry leaf is commonly available in various forms, including tea, capsules, and tinctures. The administration of raspberry leaf can vary depending on the form in which it is consumed. 

• raspberry Leaf Tea: raspberry leaf tea steeps the dried leaves in boiled water for several minutes. The recommended dosage is 1-2 teaspoons of dried raspberry leaf per cup of water, steeped for 10-15 minutes. The tea can be consumed 1-3 times daily, depending on the purpose. 
• raspberry Leaf Capsules: raspberry leaf capsules are usually available in 300-500mg doses.  
• raspberry Leaf Tincture: raspberry leaf tincture is a concentrated liquid herb extract.  

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: raspberry leaf 

Why do we use raspberry leaf 

raspberry leaf has been traditionally used for various purposes, particularly in women’s health. Some of the common uses of the raspberry leaf include: 

• Pregnancy and childbirth: raspberry leaf is commonly used to help tone and strengthen the uterus during pregnancy and prepare for labor. It is believed to help reduce labor pain, shorten labor time, and prevent excessive bleeding after delivery. 
• Menstrual cramps: raspberry leaf may help to ease menstrual cramps and other menstrual symptoms. 
• Digestive health: raspberry leaf may have a mild astringent effect and may help to soothe and tone the digestive tract. It may be used to help alleviate diarrhea and other digestive issues. 
• Immune support: raspberry leaf contains antioxidants and other nutrients that may help to support the immune system and protect against illness. 
• Skin health: raspberry leaf may be used topically to help soothe and heal skin irritations, such as eczema and rashes.