Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)
Uterine tonic rich in iron and calcium — used to ease menstrual cramps and prepare the uterus for labor in third trimester.
Red Raspberry Leaf has been used for centuries as a uterine tonic and women's health herb. It's particularly popular during pregnancy (in the third trimester) to help prepare the uterus for labor. Beyond pregnancy, it's used to support menstrual health, ease cramps, and provide nutrients including iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Fragarine may help tone uterine muscles
Contains iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins
How Raspberry Leaf works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
1-2g dried leaf as tea, 2-3 times daily
Loading: Not required
Can be taken without food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 🍵Dried leaf tea | Recommended |
| 💊Capsules | Alternative |
| 💧Tincture | Alternative |
Tea is traditional and allows enjoyment of the mild, pleasant taste.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Traditionally consumed as tea. During pregnancy, typically started in third trimester only.
May help with menstrual cramps and heavy flow
Traditional use in third trimester of pregnancy
Traditional use; consult midwife or OB
Generally avoided until third trimester
Tannins in raspberry leaf may reduce iron absorption when taken simultaneously. Separate doses by at least 2 hours.
Raspberry leaf may have mild cholinergic effects that could theoretically counteract anticholinergic medications.
Tip: Stay hydrated
Top studies from 40+ peer-reviewed papers
Socha MW et al. • Nutrients (2023)
“The currently available data indicate a weak effect of raspberry leaf extracts on labor induction and, at the same time, their possible negative impact on cervical ripening.”
Sławińska N et al. • Nutrients (2023)
“However, many preparations and compounds still lack appropriate evidence for their effectiveness in vivo, so their activity should first be assessed in animal studies and clinical trials.”
Staszowska-Karkut M et al. • Nutrients (2020)
“Therefore, the leaves of berry bushes seem to be a promising source of substances that can be used as replacements for synthetic agents in the treatment and prevention of lifestyle diseases.”
Nirumand MC et al. • International journal of molecular sciences (2018)
“Further investigations are required to confirm the safety and efficacy of these compounds.”
Tao M et al. • Food & function (2026)
“It aims to provide the food science and nutrition community with an authoritative reference on ellagitannins in red raspberry and to guide their development and application as core ingredients for next-generation functional foods and nutraceuticals.”
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