Herbs & Herbal Remedies @ Green Papaya

Standard medical advice warns pregnant women against taking any drugs during pregnancy because of the possibility of harming the fetus. Raspberry used medicinally is an exception to this rule, although it should only be used with the consent and supervision of an obstetrician. Raspberry has been widely recommended for decades as a uterine relaxant. and there are no reports in the medical literature of any problems with it. Women with a history of miscarriage may find it especially valuable. On the other hand, prudence dictates using the lowest effective dose. Start with a weak infusion and increase the concentration if necessary.

Tannins have both pro-and anti-cancer action. Pregnant women with a history of cancer should discuss using raspberry with their physicians.

Other Cautions

For otherwise healthy adults, raspberry is safe in amounts typically recommended.

Raspberry should be used in medicinal amounts only in consultation with your doctor. If raspberry causes minor discomforts, such as stomach upset or diarrhea, use less or stop using it. Let your doctor know if you experience unpleasant effects or if the symptoms for which the herb is being used do not improve significantly in two weeks.

Berry Good Fruit

Raspberry’s perennial invasive roots produce a dense spreading mass of thorny biennial stems, which can grow to 10 feet, with serrated, lance-shaped leaves, small white summer blooming flowers, and hanging clusters of tart red berries, which become very sweet as they ripen.

Raspberry bushes grow so vigorously and invasively, they quickly become impenetrable pests. Rooting them out is quite difficult. Even when cleared, stray root fragments send up new shoots. Make sure your raspberries are well contained.

Plant ½-inch root cuttings in a few inches of soil.

Raspberry grows best under full sun in loose, rich, well-drained soil amended with manure or compost.

Harvest leaves any time. Mature fruits appear in summer.

For ease of harvesting the berries, train branches along supports. Prune mercilessly.