Red Raspberry Leaf Herbal Tea

 I started taking red raspberry leaf herbal tea. I have done some research on this and apparently it is really good for the female body- along with the pregnant female body. There are recommendations to start in the 3rd trimester or at 36 weeks so I guess I'm not "late" in starting, even though I wish I had known about this sooner.
I researched the benefits and this is what I found:
 Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus) tones the uterus, improves contractions and decreases constipation. Most of the benefits given to regular use of Raspberry lea tea throughout pregnancy can be traced to the strengthening power of fragrine, an alkaloid which gives tone to the muscles of the pelvic region, including the uterus itself; and to the nourishing power of the vitamins and minerals found in this plant. There is rich concentration of Vitamin C, the presence of Vitamin E and the easily assimilated calcium and iron. Raspberry leaves also contain vitamins A and B complex and many minerals, including phosphorus and potassium.
When to use: There are two basic points of view on the subject. There is agreement among many clinicians that in the 3rd trimester frequent (2- 3 cups per day of tea or 1 – 2 cups per day of infusion) is beneficial to the uterine and pelvic muscles. 

• Reducing pain during labor and after birth. By toning the muscles used during labor and birth, Raspberry leaf eliminates many of the reasons for a painful birth and prolonged recovery. It does not counter the pain of dilation of the cervix.

Red Raspberry Leaves do not start or encourage labor. It can help the contractions to be productive once true labor has begun because it strengthens the uterine and pelvic muscles but it is not an oxytonic herb (one that would induce labor). That being said, it’s important to talk with your midwife, obstetrician or herbalist before beginning drinking red raspberry leaf tea or taking a supplement. Some will recommend you wait until you are 36 weeks along before incorporating the tea into your health regime while others may encourage you to begin right away. Each situation and pregnancy is different so it’s best to get other’s opinions before beginning red raspberry leaf tea.

http://womanplace.wordpress.com/2011/06/19/the-benefits-of-red-raspberry-leaf-tea-in-pregnancy/

I also looked up what a bunch of people had said when they took this tea and I have found surprising and awesome reviews of the stuff! I am so happy that I am starting now, at 36 weeks so my muscles will have time to absorb the nutrients provided in these leaves!


I have also talked with the nurses and midwives and everyone says it is safe but to not put too much hope in it either- who knows if it will actually make a difference in sensation of labor but I am hopeful.