Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) has been taken by pregnant women for centuries to prepare the body for labour. How does it work? Raspberry leaf has been researched extensively and an explanation for its action comes from the whole herb, rather than individual constituents, providing neither a relaxing or stimulating effect but an overall coordinating & regulating action on the uterine muscles. Spasmodic uterine contractions is a common cause of labour failing to progress, which makes Raspberry leaf beneficial for producing more effective contractions and therefore promoting a more efficient labour.

Known for several beneficial actions such as a ‘uterine tonic’ and a ‘Partus Prepatur’ (A Partus prep is an herbal formula taken for the last 6 weeks of pregnancy to prepare the body for labour, birth & breastfeeding).

If you aim to have a ‘normal’ birth, i.e. no intervention, (no caesarean, no forceps or vacuum, no induction, no artificial pain relief etc.), studies have shown that women who take raspberry leaf have a statistically higher chance of this happening¹ Raspberry leaf has been shown to decrease the second stage (pushing) of labour & also assists with the involution of the uterus (return to its original size) after childbirth and promotes lactation.

Often used in combination with other herbs for abnormal or heavy bleeding in non-pregnant women, is valued for its nutrient content, particularly Vitamins A, Bs, C, Iron, selenium, calcium & Manganese and the tannins present have an astringent action which make it a useful treatment for diarrhoea.

Another common use is for sore throats, mouth ulcers or inflamed gums as a tea or gargle & externally applied to wounds to reduce infection and increase healing time.

How much when?

There has been no evidence to show the benefit of drinking raspberry leaf in the first trimester except for assisting with morning sickness, if this is a valid reason for you to try it during this time it is highly recommended you consult a Naturopath or Herbalist to have the correct dose prescribed and make sure there are no associated risks.

Otherwise you can start drinking 1 – 2 cups of Raspberry leaf herbal infusion after your 20^th week of pregnancy, increase to 2-3 cups after 30 weeks and 3-4 cups during the last 6 weeks. You might also continue drinking it after the birth of your baby during breastfeeding.  

The tea has a pleasant flavour and you can add herbs for flavour such as spearmint, ½ tsp of honey or a squeeze of lemon for some variety, drinking the infusion is a fantastic way to make sure you keep your fluid intake up during pregnancy, which can help to remove excess fluid which often accumulates in the extremities (hands, lower legs & feet). It is important to consume a good quality herb for maximum effect, organic loose leaf from a reputable grower or supplier would be the best choice.

Boil the water and add 1 tsp of herb for each cup, it may be convenient for you to make several cups at a time and take in a thermos if you are going to work or be out for the day.

Visit the Jellyfish Shop for certified organic Raspberry leaf

Many brands have a tablet or capsule that you can purchase from a Health Food Store, in which case you would follow the label as directed.

You may also be given a tincture from a naturopath or herbalist, in which case take as directed.

Safety?

Raspberry leaf is known to be very safe, with no side-effects on the mother or baby.

There are many myths & misconceptions about what it can or cannot do and it is often listed amongst the ‘natural’ methods of inducing labour, this is not the case, but if you are concerned then it is always advised to consult your health professional before taking ANY herbs, supplements or medications.

It is not recommended or necessary to take Raspberry leaf (or any other herbs) during the first trimester unless prescribed by your health professional.

References

1. Parsons, M. Simpson, M. and Ponton, T. 1999. ‘Raspberry leaf and its effect on labour: safety and efficacy’, Aust Coll Midwives Inc J 12(13), 20-5
 

The above information was sourced from several references, but a particularly fantastic place for anything you would like to know about the female reproductive system is a book called ‘Women, hormones and the menstrual cycle’ by Melbourne based Naturopath & author, Ruth Trickey,  published by Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW