Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

In nature, everything has a natural cycle. The sun, the moon, the seasons, the tides. Ebb and flow. As women, we are naturally in tune with the cycles of life. A normal, healthy period can be as consistent as the lunar cycle. Unfortunately, things such as certain medications, stress and hormonal imbalances can disrupt the flow. Known by some as the 'Queen Herb' or ‘The Women’s Tonic’, Red Raspberry Leaf has been used for thousands of years by women from puberty to menopause. Red raspberry leaves contain an alkaloid called fragarine which tones the uterus and strengthens the pelvic muscles. This helps it to contract smoothly, which eases cramps and reduces heavier bleeding. Red raspberry leaf also contains vitamins C and E, iron, magnesium, and calcium. Calcium regulates hormones, so it’s particularly helpful towards the beginning of your period.

Red Raspberry Leaf for Childbirth and Postpartum Recovery.

Traditionally women have turned to red raspberry leaf towards the end of their pregnancy to naturally support childbirth and postpartum recovery. I was first introduced to red raspberry leaf when I was pregnant by my naturopath. In my third trimester, she made me up a blend of red raspberry leaf and nettle tea to prepare my body for birth. Red raspberry leaf boosts blood flow to the uterus and strengthens the uterine muscle fibres. It tones the uterus, which makes contractions more effective so labour is less painful, shorter in length, and helps to prevent hemorrhage/reduce post-partum bleeding. After your baby is born red raspberry leaf will help to increase milk supply and return your uterus back to its usual size.

Red Raspberry Leaf for Regulating your Cycle

Even if you're not expecting a baby, red raspberry leaf can still be of benefit to women who have painful, heavy or irregular menstrual cycles. You can drink red raspberry leaf tea at any time in your cycle, but the best time is a few days before your period is due. This way it can help to relieve some PMS symptoms, such as cramping. Red raspberry leaf can also help to regulate your menstrual cycle, reduce the length of your period and reduce the heaviness of blood flow.

Red Raspberry Leaf for Menopause

Red raspberry leaf tea can be consumed right up until menopause. As a woman goes through menopause her body is changing and this can throw her off balance. Particularly lowered levels of estrogen, as the uterus depends on a healthy amount of estrogen and progesterone to thicken its walls. During menopause red raspberry leaf can help to strengthen the uterus, reduce heavy menstrual flow and balance hormones.

Dosage

Drink raspberry leaf tea a few days before you expect your period to begin. One to three cups a day if you are not pregnant or one cup a day during pregnancy.

To brew, simply use 1/2 - 1 tsp per cup, and let sit for 3-5 minutes. This tea has a herbal flavour, not a fruity flavour.

Ready to include red raspberry leaf tea in your self-care practice? Locally sourced organic red raspberry leaf tea is available at Back to the Wild. Click here to shop Back to the Wild.

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