Although more research is needed, some claim that raspberry leaf tea can help strengthen the uterus, improve labor outcome, and prevent excessive bleeding after childbirth. May help shorten labor Dante G, Bellei G, Neri I et al. 2014. Herbal therapies in pregnancy: what works? Current Opinion in Obstetrics & Gynecology. 26(2): 83-91. [Accessed January 2021] However, modern scientific research into these claims has not confirmed health benefits to red raspberry leaf tea, and warns that the herb may even be harmful in some cases. Many studies were conducted using animals and need to be researched further. Nutrition Information This is particularly so in the case of women who have struggled with fertility issues or who have suffered early pregnancy losses due to menstrual bleeding issues of a weakness of the uterine lining. If raspberry leaf tea is an aid conception, then it is recommended to use it for three months prior to trying to conceive. It can be useful for women in the following circumstances: The NHS recommends that you should avoid drinking raspberry leaf tea until you are 32 weeks pregnant. It is not advisable to begin drinking it in the second trimester of your pregnancy.

Hypoglycaemic effects followed use of tea and confirmed by withdrawal and reintroduction of raspberry leaf

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There have been reports of malformations in the babies of women who ate fenugreek seeds during pregnancy. In particular, anecdotal evidence has described a few raspberry leaf benefits for menstruators experiencing premenstrual syndrome (also known as PMS). Raspberry leaf contains high amounts of tannins and flavonoids which have antioxidant activity. It has been used to reduce menstrual cramps for centuries. Animal studies have shown that raspberry leaf can act as a relaxant in the gastrointestinal tract. This can result in reduced cramping during menstruation. Raspberry leaf is an herbal product used by pregnant women as a uterine tonic to ease labor and delivery. Leaves from raspberry (Rubus idaeus), a plant with edible fruits, are most commonly used for medicinal purposes. Raspberry leaf is available over the counter (OTC) as dried leaf that can be used to make tea or as tablets and liquid extracts to take as supplements.

Survey of herb used by midwives for induction. No evidence presented on mechanism of raspberry leaf. Raspberry leaf is available in both tea bag, and tablet form and many women find themselves wondering which format they should use it in. There is quite a lot of conflicting advice on the internet; however, there are a few differences between the two types: The American pregnancy association (AMA) states that red raspberry leaf tea may help to increase breast milk supply, making it a breastfeeding-friendly tea. 13 However, a scientific study found no effects, neither harmful nor beneficial. Potential Risks of Red Raspberry Leaf TeaYou should start with one cup a day and build up to three cups a day, to help bring on labour naturally. Where to buy raspberry leaf tea Ferlemi, A. and Lamari, F. 2016. Berry Leaves: An Alternative Source of Bioactive Natural Products of Nutritional and Medicinal Value. Antioxidants. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4931538/ Opens a new window [Accessed February 2021] If you've watched your due date come and go or you're just so damn uncomfortable, you might have started exploring ways to bring on labour naturally, one of which includes drinking raspberry leaf tea. This is a herbal remedy that is thought to tone the muscles of your womb to help it work during labour. What is raspberry leaf tea? Flaxseed may have mild oestrogenic effects. It contains phytoestrogens, which resemble the oestrogens in the body and may affect the metabolism of oestrogen.