Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) Family: Rosaceae
Common names: Bramble of Mount Ida, Hindberry

Photo courtesy of  Herbal Nexus

Range: Grows wild in Europe, North America, Asia

History: The fruit of wild raspberry have long been used in cordials and to make jams and jellies and it is widely cultivated in much of the world for the same purposes.  

Medicinally, raspberry infusions have been used as an astringent wash and when taken internally, as a digestive aid. Since medieval times, mid-wives have given raspberry tea to expectant mothers to intensify uterine contractions during delivery. When prepared as a poultice and combined with slippery elm, it is reputed to promote healing of wounds, ulcerations and burns.  The juice of the berries is also said to dissolve tooth plaque and tartar.

Constituents:  pectin, citric and malic acids

"Twas only to hear the yorling sing,
And pu' the crawflower round the spring,
The scarlet hep and the hindberrie,
And the nut that hang frae the hazel tree."