Red Raspberry Leaf Tea During Pregnancy
I was first introduced to Red Raspberry Leaf Tea during my first pregnancy. It was recommended it to me because of my high risk situation.
It wasn't until this time around that I realized that this tea could benefit all pregnant moms and not just ones who were having a rough go.
Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus) tones the uterus, improves contractions and decreases constipation.
It also contains many minerals and vitamins, including vitamin C and calcium plus an alkaloid called fragrine, which lends tone to the uterus.
While Raspberry leaf tea does not start labor or promote contractions, it does is help strengthen the pelvic and uterine muscles so that once labor does start the muscles will be more efficient.
Before pregnancy, drink 2 cups per day. Abstain during first trimester and begin again at 35 weeks. By resuming at 35 weeks it has been studied to help reduce labor pains.
Raspberry is also an rich source of vitamins A, B complex, C, and E, as well as the minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients make it an excellent prevention and treatment for anemia and leg cramps, as well as a beneficial remedy for the reduction of morning sickness.
Labor Benefits: While I cannot confirm the labor benefits of this tea, many women have written that taking a stronger cup(steeped for 30 minutes) of this tea while in labor to reduce the pain.
I plan on trying this out next month when my own baby decides to arrive.
*Because raspberry leaf may affect infants, it is not recommended for women who are breast-feeding.*
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