Raspberry Leaf Tea

What if I told you there was something as simple as a few cups of herbal tea that may assist in shortening the duration of labour?

Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) is one of the top prescribed herbs for pregnant women in the third trimester. Surveys in Australia have found that 52-73% of pregnant mamas were using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), and 37-48% consulted a CAM practitioner (such as a Naturopath or Herbalist) during their pregnancy journey. Further, a study found that 52.5% of a group of midwives (n=571) in Australia recommended raspberry leaf tea to women experiencing postterm pregnancy.

Raspberry leaf is commonly used in the third trimester of pregnancy as a partus preparator and uterine tonic. Raspberry leaf helps to facilitate labour and childbirth by toning and strengthening the uterus. Raspberry leaf is nutrient rich, as it contains iron which is useful for mums in the third trimester when baby starts to drain your iron stores to build up their own, to last them the first six months of their life before they begin their solids journey.

Did you know that its benefit carry into the postpartum period? Raspberry leaf supports post birth recovery, reduce risk of haemorrhaging, aids in involution of the uterus after delivery, assists with breast milk production, and gently repletes minerals. For any mamas who has experienced baby loss, raspberry leaf can be a lovely uterine tonic post procedure.

Tips when using raspberry leaf: Avoid use in 1st trimester of pregnancy (only use within the last 4-6 weeks of pregnancy). Raspberry leaf contains a high tannin content, which may reduce absorption of some drugs and mineral supplements such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc. It is recommended to separate by 2 hours.

How to enjoy the tea? Infuse 1 teaspoon of loose leaf or 1 tea bag per cup in 250mL (one cup) of boiling water, steeping for 10 minutes. Enjoy 3 cups daily, starting with 1 cup daily at 36 weeks. Get in touch for more information.

Bowman, R., Taylor, J., Muggleton, S., & Davis, D. Biophysical effects, safety and efficacy of raspberry leaf use in pregnancy: a systematic integrative review. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, 21(56).