Perhaps one of the most common pregnancy recommendations, especially for those desiring spontaneous labor and natural birth, is drinking red raspberry leaf tea (RRLT). We all know how these suggestions circle and suddenly feel like a necessity, but… is it really necessary? Is it just a trend? Are there truly benefits to drinking it? Is it safe? Will it help me get my VBAC?
We’ll dive into the research currently available and help you make the right decision for your VBAC journey.
What do we know for sure about RRLT?
Used medicinally for centuries, red raspberry leaf is a herb that is usually promoted as beneficial for women’s health. Its most commonly touted benefits include those surrounding menstruation, pregnancy, labor and postpartum. However, we also know that RRLT has some really nutrient-dense properties like vitamins C and E, calcium, magnesium and zinc. Additionally, red raspberry leaves contain tannins, flavonoids and ellagic acid, naturally-occurring compounds that offer anti-inflammatory, disease-fighting and anti-cancer benefits.
Besides consuming the beautiful red berries, we know that red raspberry leaf is most commonly consumed as a tea (using the dried leaves). There are also some traditions that use red raspberry leaf for infusions, tinctures or everyday supplements.
What do we hear about drinking RRLT?
It’s likely that you’ve come across RRLT in your pregnancy or labor research, and it’s quite possible that your friend, doula or midwife has suggested you start drinking a couple cups per day during the third trimester. Here are some anecdotal benefits you may have heard about drinking RRLT:
- reduces common pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness or cramps
- strengthens and tones the uterus
- shortens labor time
- decreases the need for labor induction, augmentation or assisted delivery (like forceps)
- reduces mild menstrual cramps
- relieves irritations and inflammations like skin rashes, mouth sores and sore throat
- improves digestion, reduces bloating
What does the science say about RRLT and pregnancy & birth?
It’s difficult to sift through all of the pregnancy recommendations to determine what’s factual and what’s based on someone’s personal account rather than research. If you dive deep enough into RRLT, however, you’ll find a simple answer across the board… there isn’t enough research to support benefits like those listed above.
According to a 2021 integrative review (a review of peer reviewed scientific papers), “Many women use raspberry leaf in pregnancy to facilitate labour and birth. The evidence base supporting the use of raspberry leaf in pregnancy is weak and further research is needed to address the question of raspberry leaf’s effectiveness.”
In addition, an Australian observational study in 2021 concluded that while the consumption of red raspberry leaf “was strongly predictive of women not having their labours medically augmented,” the results couldn’t be generalized enough to make a definite conclusion. These researchers also determined that more human research is necessary.
That being said, are there any science-based risks to drinking RRLT in pregnancy? According to Evidence Based Birth (we love their ability to review current research and put it together for our every day consumption), there have been a few identified risks. Some study participants experienced side effects like diarrhea, constipation and nausea (however, we know these are common pregnancy symptoms anyway).
A different study found that there was a higher rate of cesarean in the group drinking RRLT (this may have been due to a limited sample size and/or the fact that participants had a higher risk of cesarean going into the study). Lastly, some animal studies have shown earlier rates of puberty in the offspring of those exposed to red raspberry leaf at very high doses.
To drink or not to drink red raspberry leaf tea during pregnancy…
So, if we keep hearing that we should drink RRLT but we know that evidence-based research doesn’t necessarily support the claimed benefits… what should we do?
It’s clear that the research on drinking RRLT in human pregnancy is limited; both benefits and risks appear in current research, but it’s just not enough to make direct correlations. Are the potential risks risky enough not to drink it? Are the potential benefits positive enough to drink it? That choice is yours.
We will never offer you medical advice, but if you’re curious about our input… don’t get too bogged down by making “the right” decision. Many things in pregnancy, especially in preparing for a VBAC, should be weighed against how they support your mental health. Do you like drinking RRLT? Does it taste good? Do you have easy access to it? If so, then enjoy some every now and then (if your provider agrees).
But, if drinking it feels more like a box to check, a risk you’re taking or just not enjoyable… spend your time and money elsewhere (check out these other research-backed products that can truly make a difference in your VBAC).
As with everything we share, remember… the most important thing is that YOU have the information to make the choice that’s right for YOU. Discuss questions with your provider and move confidently along your VBAC journey.
As always, my strong friend, I will leave you with this affirmation and reminder…
We’re so grateful to be on this journey with you!
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Sources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/red-raspberry-leaf-tea#risks
https://www.traditionalmedicinals.com/blogs/herb-library/raspberry-leaf
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/red-raspberry-leaf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7871383
https://evidencebasedbirth.com/ebb-139-red-raspberry-leaf-tea
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