Raspberry Leaf Tea

Raspberry leaf tea has a light, refreshing taste and has been used as an herbal tonic for centuries to help reduce menstrual symptoms, as well as relieve nausea and discomfort related to pregnancy.

Raspberry leaves are rich in vitamins, minerals and tannins, which account for their use as an herbal remedy in holistic therapy.

The pale-green bramble leaves are rich in vitamins A, B complex, C and E, as well as magnesium, calcium, niacin, iron, manganese, potassium and selenium.

According to an article by Mary Joy of www.morethanalive.com, a wellness resource, the raspberry leaf’s astringent properties may also be used calm throat and mouth irritations. Externally, the tea’s ability to constrict tissues has encouraged some to use it as a skin tightener or balm.

"The leaf may also be combined with the powdered bark of slippery elm to make a poultice for application to the skin to treat wounds, burns, and scalds," she notes.

Follow these guidelines to prepare a raspberry leaf brew.

1. Immerse one ounce of dried raspberry leaves into a pint of boiling water. For larger quantities, use a pound of tea leaves per gallon of water.

2. Let the leaves simmer in the water for up to three hours.

3. Strain the tea to remove the leaves.

4. Serve hot or cold -- and add lemon, honey or other sweetener based on your preference.

Some herbalists and organic health retailers will prepare raspberry leaf teabags on request and provide brewing instructions.

As with any herbal therapy, always first consult your healthcare provider. Please note that the above article content is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent a health condition. The Federal Drug Administration has not evaluated this information or the use of raspberry tea for medicinal purposes.

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