Raspberry plants used to grow wild. Nowadays, raspberries are grown by people in many places for medicinal purposes and fruit. There are many folk remedies that use raspberries as medicinal herbs. Let’s refer to the information shared below to learn more about the uses of this plant.
1. Overview of some characteristics of raspberry plants
Raspberry plants (raspberry, celosia, celosia, celosia) belong to the rose family. This is a climbing plant with a wide canopy. Almost every part of the raspberry plant has small thorns.
Raspberry leaves are heart-shaped, simple, with long petioles. Each leaf has an average diameter of 5 – 15cm.
Raspberries bloom in February – March and bear fruit around May – July. Raspberry flowers are hairy, white, and grow in clusters from the leaf axils. Raspberries are spherical, formed from the connection of fruit seeds into a shape like a plate of sticky rice. When unripe, raspberries are hard, sour, and green; when ripe, the fruit turns bright red or dark black, aromatic, and sweet.
Raspberries are found in many regions of Asia, Europe, and America. In our country, raspberries are a wild plant that grows abundantly in the northern mountains.
Ripe raspberries
2. Chemical composition and method of raspberry medicinal exploitation
2.1. Raspberry medicinal exploitation
Most parts of the raspberry plant can be used as medicinal materials. The leaves and branches can be harvested all year round, cut into pieces and then dried or dried for gradual use with a dose of 10 – 30g depending on each medicinal prescription. The fruit is harvested when ripe, then dried or refrigerated for use. Raspberries can be used to soak in wine or make jam.
2.2. Chemical composition of raspberry medicinal materials
Raspberry leaves contain tannins. In addition, raspberries contain many substances that are good for health:
– Ellagic acid: neutralizes free radicals, is an antioxidant, protects the body’s cell structures and membranes.
– Flavonoids: kaempferol, anthocyanin, quercetin.
– Other ingredients: Mg, Zn, Cu, K, manganese, omega-3, fiber, folic acid, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin C.
3. Uses of raspberry medicine
3.1. Reduce arthritis
A study conducted on mice showed that the group using red raspberry extract had a lower risk of arthritis than the group of mice not using this extract. On the other hand, mice with arthritis who used raspberry extract also had less severe symptoms than the group of mice that did not use it.
A study conducted on mice also showed that the group of mice using raspberry extract had less swelling and destruction of joints than the group of mice that did not use this extract.
Raspberry contains ingredients that can help treat swelling and pain caused by arthritis.
3.2. Improve sexual desire
Research conducted in the US shows that raspberries can increase nerve excitement in the penis thanks to their ability to improve microcirculation there. This shows that raspberries can help improve sexual desire in men. Not only that, this medicinal herb also increases sperm quality, which is very good for people who are infertile.
3.3. Anti-aging
The ellagic acid component in raspberries has an antioxidant effect 10 times higher than tomatoes and 3 times higher than kiwi. Therefore, raspberries can be used as a natural medicine to help fight free radicals and reduce signs of aging in the body.
The vitamin C component in raspberries is very good for the immune system and skin vitality. Many other nutrients in raspberries also stimulate collagen production and improve skin damage caused by UV rays.
3.4. Improve mobility
Research conducted on old mice fed 1 – 2% raspberries for 8 weeks showed improved mobility and health balance.
3.5. Support digestion
Raspberries are rich in fiber. Each handful of raspberries contains about 8g of fiber. Adding 25g of fiber every day can help the digestive system function more smoothly. Not only that, fiber also helps reduce cholesterol in the blood, which is very good for cardiovascular health.
3.6. Protect teeth and mouth
Raspberries contain anti-inflammatory and antibacterial substances, so they can kill some types of bacteria that are harmful to oral health. In particular, minerals, flavonoids and vitamin C in this fruit can be anti-inflammatory and antibacterial to prevent the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
3.7. Lose weight, prevent obesity
Raspberries contain Raspberry which can promote fat burning in the body and increase lipid metabolism. Thanks to that, you can add this fruit to your meals to support weight loss, preventing the risk of obesity.
4. Notes when using raspberries to treat diseases
Basically, raspberries bring many health benefits, but when using this natural medicine, patients still need to note:
– Do not use raspberries if you are taking antibiotics. Tyramine in raspberries can cause blood pressure to increase suddenly, which is dangerous for the patient.
– Pregnant women need to be careful when eating raspberries because it can easily stimulate uterine contractions.
– The diuretic and laxative effects of raspberries are relatively good, so if you are taking medication to treat these conditions, avoid eating raspberries to avoid electrolyte disturbances or dehydration.
– People with a history of allergies or sensitive skin may experience itchy mouth or tingling after eating raspberries. At this time, the body will have an allergic reaction with symptoms such as: stuffy nose, wheezing, swollen lips, swollen tongue, itchy face, … More severe cases may cause nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, … if not treated quickly, it will be life-threatening.
Raspberries are an attractive fruit from color to flavor. In terms of medicine, raspberries can be used to treat indigestion, impotence, kidney failure, urinary incontinence, spermatorrhea, … In particular, the decoction from raspberry leaves can treat mouth and throat infections. However, to avoid drug interactions and use raspberries to treat diseases effectively, before using, patients should still consult a doctor of Oriental medicine.
