Fertility is the ability to conceive a baby, and it plays a very crucial part in a woman’s life. A woman is born with the number of eggs she will have in her life. As women age, the quality and quantity of their eggs decline. This means a woman’s age significantly affects her fertility. Not only age but nutrition and good health also play an important role in fertility. Good nutritional status increases the chances of getting pregnant and delivering a healthy baby (1).
The overall nutrition of a female not only affects her health but also impacts her fertility. A healthy diet is important to improve female fertility (2). For a long time, women of childbearing age have consumed many herbs to improve pregnancy, and red raspberries are one of them (3). Is red raspberry beneficial for fertility? Is there any scientific proof related to raspberry and pregnancy? Let us discuss the effectiveness of raspberries on pregnancy in detail.
What Are Red Raspberry Leaves?
Red raspberry is a fruit and is known for its health benefits. It is a powerhouse of nutrients. Both its fruit and its leaves are consumed as they provide immense health benefits. It has been commonly consumed since ancient times to improve the muscle activity of the uterus during pregnancy.
Also, it is used to ease morning sickness, ensure a quick birth, and improve fertility. Raspberries are rich in nutrients like vitamin B6, folate, iron, and vitamin C. They are a very powerful source of phytochemicals and antioxidants. For years, it has been used by people to get relief from PMS and to support pregnancy (4).
How Does Raspberry Help With Infertility?
The raspberries are a high source of phytochemicals and antioxidants. It has anti-inflammatory properties. All these properties of raspberries help in improving the fertility of both males and females (5). It contains a very good amount of vitamin C and folate.
These nutrients are not only responsible for improving the quality of sperm in males but also decrease the chances of miscarriages in females. Folate helps in the conception and development of the fetus. (6)
Benefits of Red Raspberry Leaf to Improve Fertility?
Raspberries are a rich source of vitamin C. Researchers have proven that a high intake of vitamin C reduces the risk of decreasing sperm quality. In the case of females, researchers have shown that increased intake of vitamin C reduces the risk of miscarriages.
Raspberries not only contain Vitamin C but also are a good source of folate which is responsible for female fertility and helps in developing embryos. Raspberries help to increase fertility both in men and women. (5)
Are There Any Side Effects of Drinking Red Raspberry Leaf Tea for Fertility?
There are no side effects of drinking red raspberry leaf tea for fertility if taken in moderation. It may have some laxative properties, which may increase intestinal activity and cause diarrhea. As it is a rich source of nutrients it should be taken in small amounts. It may induce vomiting and diarrhea in some people if taken in excess.
When To Start Drinking Red Raspberry Tea for Boosting Fertility?
Some women start drinking red raspberry leaf tea 3–6 months before trying to conceive. (7). This allows time for the body to potentially benefit from its uterine-toning effects and the nutrients it provides.
How Much Red Raspberry Tea to Consume in a Day?
A pregnant woman can consume red raspberry tea in moderation and mothers who are breastfeeding due to its health benefits. There is no specific dose for raspberry tea, but a pregnant woman should consume it in moderation. However, mothers should avoid a higher intake of red raspberry tea a day.
How to Prepare Red Raspberry Leaf Tea?
Raspberry tea is prepared from its leaves. It is a refreshing beverage prepared from fresh raspberry leaves. It is a widely popular drink due to its taste and aroma.
Here is a specific recipe to make aromatic and tasty raspberry leaf tea (8)
- Pluck 7-10 fresh leaves of raspberry.
- Add leaves to the boiling water and keep it for 5 minutes.
- Add sugar as per the taste.
- Pour in the cup and enjoy it.
For Dried leaf tea
- Harvest some raspberry leaves and wash them properly
- Dry the leaves along with some berries.
- Store the leaves and berries in a clean and airtight container.
- Add some dried powder into the strainer and put the strainer in the boiling water.
- Enjoy freshly prepared raspberry tea.
Precautions To Take While Drinking Raspberry Tea?
While red raspberry leaf tea is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation, there are some precautions to keep in mind, particularly for those trying to conceive or pregnant.
Here are some important points to consider:
- One should always consume raspberry tea in moderate amounts.
- People taking diabetes medicine should take precautions while consuming raspberry tea, as it can cause low blood glucose levels.
- If you are suffering from diarrhea already, do not consume raspberry tea as it causes laxative effects.
- Research has shown that pregnant ladies should not consume raspberry tea before 32 weeks of gestation as it can increase the muscle tone of the uterus. Still, more scientific evidence is needed to put light on it.
Who Should Not Take Raspberries?
A person who is taking anticoagulants or on diabetic medicines should not consume raspberry without any prescription. Pregnant ladies should always take raspberries during the later stage of pregnancy
When To Consult a Doctor
If you are taking any medical treatment, especially one related to heart disease or diabetes, you should always consult your doctor before consuming raspberry. Pregnant ladies also should consult their doctor before consumption of raspberry tea.
Raspberries are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber and are low in calories to be a part of your diet. Research has shown the beneficial effects of raspberries during pregnancy and lactation. Some researchers have proven that if raspberries are taken in excess it may harm your health, so it is always advised to consume in moderation. But still, there is some more evidence needed to explore more benefits of raspberry.
FAQs
1. Does Raspberry Leaf Tea Increase Fertility?
It helps in increasing the muscle activity of the uterus. Raspberries are a rich source of vitamin C and folate, which reduce the risk of decreasing sperm quality and decrease the risk of miscarriages in women. It supports the conception and development of embryos.
2. Is Red Raspberry Good for PCOS?
Yes, red raspberries are good for PCOS. Berries are a good source of vitamins and minerals. It is a rich source of folate, which helps in ovulation. Also, it contains fiber, which reduces blood glucose levels and helps in reducing the symptoms of PCOS.
3. Can You Drink Red Raspberry Tea During Postpartum?
Yes! This tea is excellent for balancing female hormones, supporting uterine health, and toning pelvic muscles—especially beneficial after childbirth.
Reference
- Victoria State Government, Department Of Health, Age and fertility – https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/age-and-fertility
- Skoracka K, Ratajczak AE, Rychter AM, Dobrowolska A, Krela-Kaźmierczak I. Female Fertility and the Nutritional Approach: The Most Essential Aspects. Adv Nutr. 2021 Dec 1;12(6):2372-2386 – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8634384/
- Bowman R, Taylor J, Muggleton S, Davis D. Biophysical effects, safety and efficacy of raspberry leaf use in pregnancy: a systematic integrative review – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7871383
- Socha MW, Flis W, Wartęga M, Szambelan M, Pietrus M, Kazdepka-Ziemińska A. Raspberry Leaves and Extracts-Molecular Mechanism of Action and Its Effectiveness on Human Cervical Ripening and the Induction of Labor. Nutrients – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10383074/
- Written By Dr. Richika Sahay, MBBS (Gold Medalist), DNB (Obst & Gyne), MNAMS, MRCOG (London-UK), Fellow IVF, Fellow MAS, Infertility (IVF) Specialist & Gynae Laparoscopic surgeon,[Ex AIIMS & Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi] – https://www.indiaivf.in/blog/top-10-fertility-boosting-fruits-in-female/
- Dr. Kathy Jones, Raspberries may Boost Male Fertility – https://www.medindia.net/news/raspberries-may-boost-male-fertility-124136-1.htm
- Fertility Glow, Frequently Asked Questions – https://fertilityglo.com/pages/faqs
- Raspberry Leaf Tea (with dried Wild Raspberries) – https://www.thegrizzlyforager.co.uk/raspberry-leaf-tea-recipe/
