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Raspberry Leaves Organic |
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Raspberry Leaves Organic
RASPBERRY LEAVES - Organic
(Rubus idaeus)
History and Folklore
Who doesn't love sweet Raspberries - surely, they are one of the greatest of summer's delights! The popular fruits are very fragile and don't keep well, but there is nothing like feasting on these nutrient and vitamin rich fruit. But not only the fruits are healthful - the leaves too have been used for centuries. In many parts of Europe the leaves are cured, which brings out their rose-like fragrance, and used as general 'house-tea' much like regular black tea. Leaves and berries have also been used as flavouring for other medicines, but they have never been official in any of the European or North American pharmacopoeias.
Medicinal Uses:
Though never recognized as 'official', that doesn't mean Raspberry leaves have no medicinal virtues. They are best known for their astringent and toning powers, which are particularly valued as uterine tonic during pregnancy. This use is not only traditional in Europe but also among Native Americans. The Cherokees, like the Gypsies also used a strong infusion to ease pain of a difficult birth. The use of Raspberry leaf tea as a general uterine tonic appears to have been popularised by Thompson, a famous American herbalist of the early 19th century. European Gypsies also use the leaves to treat frigidity and impotence. Raspberry leaves are used for their astringency to control diarrhoea, especially the kind of summer diarrhoea children often get, and as a gargle for a sore throat. They also seem to have a restorative action and some sources recommend them as a tonic for the kidneys and adrenal glands. Feeble children are said to improve when given raspberry leaf tea. The leaves and fruit act cooling in cases of fever. Externally, a poultice of mashed leaves is applied to wounds and a lotion is used to treat inflamed or sore eyes. Raspberry tea is said to reduce lacrimation when there is no emotional cause.
Magical Uses:
The berries are considered aphrodisiac and make wonderful ambrosial food. The leaves can be used as a base for a ritual cup, especially for rituals that honour the mysteries of the Great Mother.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child’s range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one’s own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother’s milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don’t risk regret.
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