Red Raspberry Leaf: Safe during pregnancy?Updated 4 months ago

Have you bypassed Optimal Prenatal Protein Powder due to concerns over the ingredient, red raspberry leaf?  

Dr. Lynch designed this prenatal supplement to be a complete nutrition solution for expectant mothers with complete amino acids, chelated minerals, and coenzyme forms of B vitamins along with other nutrients such as yes, red raspberry leaf.  If you have been searching for a prenatal vitamin or just a daily multivitamin, then consider the following when making your decision - before throwing out the baby with the bath water!

Let’s take a closer look at red raspberry leaf….

Red raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) has been used for centuries as a tonic to support healthy pregnancies, specifically as it relates to labor and delivery.  However, it has not been without some controversy. Some are concerned that it may cause uterine contractions leading to miscarriage in the first trimester. Theoretically this a possibility. However, you would be hard presssed to find actual incidents of miscarriage that can be directly attributed to red raspberry leaf. Miscarriages generally involve a number of factors and red raspberry leaf just happens to be one of the many suspected culprits.

Many believe that the cautionary tale of red raspberry leaf has its roots in a 1954 study which isolated active constituents including a smooth muscle stimulant, an anticholinesterase, and a spasmolytic. These isolated constituents were then applied in vitro to the tissues of guinea pigs and frogs with negative results. However, this is not how herbs are meant to be used clinically. When used as a whole plant, neither action is exacerbated, thus the herb is deemed safe. [i]

Besides red raspberry leaf being taken by countless women for centuries with cumulative anecdotal evidence, there are also studies to support its reported benefits.

The first study was a retrospective observational study which could not identify any side effects from taking raspberry leaf. It indicated that the herb may support a healthy gestation period. It also indicated that these women might be less likely to receive an artificial rupture of their membranes, or require a caesarean section, forceps or vacuum birth than the women in the control group.[ii]

In a subsequent, double blind, randomized study; red raspberry leaf contributed to a shorter second stage of labor along with a lower rate of forceps deliveries.[iii]  The women in this study were given 2.4 grams a day without negative effects.

As noted, the properties of red raspberry leaf support a healthy uterus with the primary benefit being effective contractions and thus a shorter labor. However, this is not to imply that red raspberry leaf causes premature contractions, rather when the cervix is ripened, the ensuing contractions of the uterus are strong and efficient.

According to a small survey of 90 nurse-midwives who used herbal preparations to stimulate labor, 64% used blue cohosh, 45% used black cohosh, 63% used red raspberry leaf, 93% used castor oil, and 60% used evening primrose oil. Another 82 reported that they did not use herbal preparations to stimulate labor. [iv]

The most cited reason for using herbal preparations to stimulate labor was that they are "natural," whereas the most common reason for not using herbal preparations was the lack of research or experience with the safety of these substances.

It is worth noting that natural preparations such as herbs are not going to receive the same research and attention as a drug. Just because a nutrient isn’t backed by large research studies or isn’t well-known doesn’t mean the nutrient should be avoided.

In addition, red raspberry leaf as a natural support in pregnancy is not going to be recommended by all physicians. Likely many midwives or naturopathic physicians will be aware of it and some may recommend it; however, it is up to you to take ownership of your health.

Factors to consider when making a nutrient or product decision:

• History. Likely a nutrient is safe, if it has time on its side. Should studies suddenly claim differently, consider the design and preparation of the experiment.
• Purity. As with any nutrient, purity is a key factor in the efficacy of herbs. That’s why it’s important to choose supplements carefully to avoid herbal preparations that have been contaminated.
• Doctor’s recommendation. Despite the safety track record of a nutrient, you should talk to your doctor first, to develop a personalized nutrition plan that meets your body’s needs.

Be informed. Be empowered. Take the steps necessary to optimize the health of you and your baby.

[i] Beckett AH, Bethle FW, Fell KR, Lockett MF. Active constituents of raspberry leaves. J Pharm Pharmacology1954; 6:785-96

[ii] Aust Coll Midwives Inc J. 1999 Sep;12(3):20-5.

[iii] J Midwifery Womens Health. 2001 Mar-Apr;46(2):51-9.

[iv] J Nurse Midwifery. 1999 May-Jun;44(3):205-16.