Raspberry (loganberry in tagalog)

(Rubus strigosus) Part used: Leaf. Properties: Anti-spasmodic, astringent, alterative, stimulant, tonic. What it affects: Stomach, liver, blood, genitor-urinary system, and muscles.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 5-15 min. Take 6 oz. frequently. Tincture: 30 drops (1/2-1 tsp.) frequently. Fluid extract: Take 1-2 tsp. frequently. Powder: Take 5-10 #0 capsules (30-60 grains) frequently.

Purposes: Rubus idaeus is the regular red raspberry you like to grow in your garden. Internally, the leaf tea is good for diarrhea and one can also drink it as a beverage. Because it is perfectly safe, it is one of the best herbal teas for pregnancy: to relieve nausea, prevent hemorrhage, reduce pain, and ease childbirth. It is also used freely to reduce menstrual cramps. Combined with other herbs, such as uva ursi and squaw vine, it is used for the treatment of vaginal discharge, hot flashes, and other female problems. Combine it with peppermint, to treat uterine hemorrhage or morning sickness. It is a stimulating, astringent tonic to the mucous membranes. As a douche or enema for dysentery, combine it with myrrh or goldenseal in equal parts. It will stop uterine hemorrhages. It is also used for measles.

• Raspberry relieves urinary irritation, and soothes the kidneys and entire urinary tract. For relief of kidney infection, chronic dysentery, and hemorrhage, mix 1 part raspberry, slightly over 1 part goldenseal, and 2 ½  parts witch hazel.

• Raspberry is also a reliable treatment for acute stomach problems, fever, colds, and flus. The fresh juice, mixed with a little honey, makes an excellent refrigerant beverage, to be taken in the heat of a fever in order to reduce it. Steep an ounce of the herb in a pint of boiled water for 20 minutes. It promotes healthy nails, bones, teeth, and skin.

Externally, because of its astringent qualities, raspberry is used as a gargle, mouthwash, or an external wash for sores, wounds, burns, canker sores, and skin rashes. It is also used as an eyewash. The above formula, using goldenseal and witch hazel, is also a helpful gargle for throat diseases.

Note: Wild red raspberry (Rubus strigosus) has somewhat similar properties, but it is not used very much; since the garden variety is so easy to obtain.