Raspberry

Raspberry shrubs are not only the source of delicious red fruit in summer and autumn, but have also been the used medicinally in the United Kingdom for generations.

Raspberry ‘fruit’ develop from clusters of small flowers borne on the prickly canes; each flower yields an individual fruit, and the cluster is collectively referred to as a drupe. Raspberries are climbing plants; if they are allowed to grow naturally, raspberry plants will form thickets similar to the closely related blackberry.

Species information

Distribution: Temperate regions

Habitat: Grow on fertile, well-drained soil.

Form: Shrub

Scientific name:Rubus idaeus L. (Rosaceae)

Raspberry leaf tea is a very old remedy, still used today, to ease childbirth, although scientific evidence of its effect is lacking.

The leaves and roots are used as a gargle for ulcers, tonsillitis and mouth inflammations. A dilute tincture or raspberries may be used as a mouthwash for gum infections, or applied to wounds. The berries are rich in nutrients and iron and help combat anaemia.