Penn Herb Wellness Guide

Red RaspberryFind Products

Also indexed as:Rubus idaeus
Red Raspberry: Main Image© Steven Foster

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Botanical names:
Rubus idaeus

Parts Used & Where Grown

Raspberry bushes are native to North America and are cultivated in Canada. Although most well known for its delicious berries, raspberry’s leaves are used in medicine.

  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement,little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for AmountWhy
Common Cold and Sore Throat
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Red raspberry leaves contain astringent tannins that are helpful for soothing sore throats.
Diarrhea
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Red raspberry is an astringent herb traditionally used for diarrhea. Raspberry leaves are high in tannins and may relieve acute diarrhea.
Pregnancy and Postpartum Support
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Rich in vitamins and minerals, red raspberry is traditionally used to strengthen and invigorate the uterus, increase milk flow, and restore the mother’s system after childbirth.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

Raspberry leaves have been used by herbalists to treat diarrhea. In traditional herbalism and midwifery, red raspberry has been connected to female health, including pregnancy. It was considered a remedy for excessive menstrual flow (menorrhagia) and as a “partus prepartor,” or an agent used during pregnancy to help prevent complications.1

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.