Willow Aislinn

Raspberry leaf tea has been used in Europe for nourishement during pregnancy and preparation for delivery since ancient times. (Gerarde 1597) . The chippewa, Cherokee, Iroquoise, Kwakuitl and Quinalt tribes have all used raspberry leaf during pregnancy and labour (Beckstrom-Sternberg et al 1995). It is thought that raspberry leaf tea through-out pregnancy and labour strengthens the uterus and tones it, assisting contractions and checking any haemorrhage during labour.

The active parts of raspberry leaf actually relax the uterine muscles. Dr Bamford ran a study in 1970 and deduced that raspberry leaf is able to help the uterus coordinate its contractions and reduces erratic, inefficient contractions. The result is a more efficient labour. (It may be interesting to note how this coordination is upset with contemporary induction interventions).

In a study held at one hospital in Sydney showed that raspberry leaf had no adverse effects for mother or baby and shortened the second stage of labour (the period between full dilations of the cervix and the birth of the baby). The study also showed that there was a lower rate of forceps delivery (19.3 % verses 30.4%).

Raspberry Leaf can be taken from week 18 of pregnancy. 1 cup a day from the second trimester and up to 3 cups a day from the third trimester.

See this post for labour strength Raspberry Leaf Tea