Herb & supplement monograph

Red Raspberry Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated July 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Red Raspberry interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Red Raspberry is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Red Raspberry is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Red Raspberry Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Red Raspberry drug interaction appears low for most people. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and the evidence behind them comes mainly from lab research or single case reports rather than well-controlled human studies.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The interaction with the best human evidence involves insulin. In one reported case, a pregnant woman using insulin developed low blood sugar after drinking raspberry leaf tea daily for a few days, so anyone whose blood sugar is tightly managed should watch for this. There is also a theoretical concern with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs, since lab studies suggest red raspberry leaf may reduce platelet activity and add to the effect of blood thinners, though this has not been reported in people.

What the rest of the list means

Red raspberry appears alongside a long list of medications, but that does not mean every combination is harmful. Most of these listings are precautionary, predicted from lab findings rather than confirmed in humans. For example, the bleeding concern has not actually been observed in people, only in laboratory research.

Check your medications against Red Raspberry

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Red Raspberry interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Red Raspberry

135 medications have a known interaction with Red Raspberry, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

2,830 drugs
AbciximabReoPro
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Abciximab interaction
AbrocitinibCibinqo
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Abrocitinib interaction Abrocitinib drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AcenocoumarolSintrom
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Acenocoumarol interaction
Acetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interaction
Acetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Acetaminophen, IbuprofenCombogesic
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen interaction
Acetylsalicylic AcidEntrophen
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Acetylsalicylic Acid interaction Acetylsalicylic Acid drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Alteplase, TpaActilyse, Activase
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Alteplase, Tpa interaction
Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction
Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Anacaulase-bcdbNexoBrid
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Anacaulase-bcdb interaction
AnagrelideAgrylin
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Anagrelide interaction Anagrelide drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
AnisindioneMiradon
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Anisindione interaction
Antithrombin IiiThrombate III
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Antithrombin Iii interaction
ApixabanEliquis
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Apixaban interaction Apixaban drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
ArgatrobanArgatroban
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Argatroban interaction
AspirinAngettes 75, ASA, Asaphen, Aspirin, Caprin, Cartia +8 more
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin interaction Aspirin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #3
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interaction
Aspirin, ButalbitalAxotal
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Butalbital interaction
Aspirin, Butalbital, CaffeineFiorinal
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine interaction Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine PhosphateFiorinal w/ Codeine
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, PhenacetinMarnal
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Phenacetin interaction
Aspirin, CaffeineAnacin
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Caffeine interaction
Aspirin, Caffeine, Codeine PhosphateAnacin w/ Codeine
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate interaction
Aspirin, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine BitartrateSynalgos DC
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine Bitartrate interaction
Aspirin, Caffeine, Dover's PwdAcedoval, Dovacet
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Caffeine, Dover's Pwd interaction
Aspirin, Caffeine, HydrocodoneDamason-P
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Caffeine, Hydrocodone interaction
Aspirin, Caffeine, Isobutylallylbarbituric Acid, PhenacetinLanorinal
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Caffeine, Isobutylallylbarbituric Acid, Phenacetin interaction Aspirin, Caffeine, Isobutylallylbarbituric Acid, Phenacetin drug page: uses, dosage & side effects
Aspirin, Caffeine, OrphenadrineInvagesic, Invagesic Forte, Norgesic, Norgesic Forte, Orphengesic, Orphengesic Forte
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Caffeine, Orphenadrine interaction
Aspirin, Caffeine, Phenacetin, PropoxypheneMargesic Comp. 65
Moderate Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.

Read the full Red Raspberry + Aspirin, Caffeine, Phenacetin, Propoxyphene interaction
Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Red Raspberry combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
The big picture

The kinds of drugs Red Raspberry affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Red Raspberry is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 2 drug categories Red Raspberry interacts with
Anticoagulant/antiplatelet DrugsInsulin
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking red raspberry leaf with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.
In vitro research suggests that red raspberry leaf extract has antiplatelet activity and enhances the in vitro effects of the antiplatelet medication cangrelor. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Insulin

Red raspberry leaf might reduce glucose levels in patients being treated with insulin.
In one case report, a 38-year-old patient with gestational diabetes, whose blood glucose was being controlled with medical nutrition therapy and insulin, developed hypoglycemia after consuming two servings of raspberry leaf tea daily for 3 days beginning at 32 weeks' gestation. The patient required an insulin dose reduction. The hypoglycemia was considered to be probably related to use of red raspberry leaf tea.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Monograph

Red Raspberry: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed July 2026 ·
The bottom line

Red raspberry leaf is a traditional herbal remedy most often used as a tea in late pregnancy and for menstrual discomfort, but solid scientific evidence for these uses is limited. It is generally considered well tolerated by most adults, but pregnant people should talk with their doctor or midwife before using it.

Scientific name
Rubus idaeus
Family
Rosaceae
Part used
Leaves and fruit
Common forms
Tea, capsules, tablets, dried leaf, liquid extract
People commonly use it for
  • Pregnancy and labor support
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Digestive upset and diarrhea
  • Sore throat and mouth rinse
  • Antioxidant support

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Generally well tolerated by most adults, but evidence on safety is limited.

PregnancyLikely Safe

When the fruit is used orally in amounts commonly found in foods.

Read the full pregnancy detail
BreastfeedingLikely Safe

When the fruit is used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of red raspber...

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) is a shrub in the rose family that produces the familiar sweet red berries. It grows widely across Europe, Asia, and North America. While the berries are eaten as food, the leaves are the part most often used in herbal medicine.

Red raspberry leaf has a long history of traditional use, especially as a tea. It is best known as a folk remedy taken during pregnancy, and it has also been used for menstrual cramps, digestive complaints, and as a gargle for sore throats. The berries themselves are valued mainly as a nutritious food rich in antioxidants.

How it works

Red raspberry leaves contain plant compounds such as tannins, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. Tannins have an astringent (tightening) effect, which is one reason the tea has traditionally been used for diarrhea and as a gargle.

Some researchers propose that compounds in the leaf may affect the smooth muscle of the uterus, which is the basis for its use in pregnancy. However, this idea comes largely from laboratory and animal studies, and the findings have not been consistent. The exact way red raspberry leaf works in the body is not fully understood.

Effectiveness

Does Red Raspberry work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 15 uses evaluated
15 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

For Red Raspberry, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 15 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Aging skin
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Topical red raspberry leaf has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Cardiovascular disease (CVD)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral red raspberry leaf for CVD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of red raspberry for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Congestive heart failure (CHF)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral red raspberry leaf for CHF, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of red raspberry for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diabetes
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral red raspberry leaf for diabetes, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of red raspberry for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Dysmenorrhea
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral red raspberry leaf for dysmenorrhea, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of red raspberry for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hypertension
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral red raspberry leaf for hypertension, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of red raspberry for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Influenza
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral red raspberry leaf for influenza, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of red raspberry for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Labor pain
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Some research suggests that oral red raspberry leaf does not reduce analgesic use during labor.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Menorrhagia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral red raspberry leaf for menorrhagia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of red raspberry for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Obesity
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral red raspberry fruit is beneficial in patients with obesity.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Osteoarthritis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if oral red raspberry leaf extract is beneficial for knee osteoarthritis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Parturition
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Some research suggests that oral red raspberry leaf does not shorten the duration of labor.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Pharyngitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical red raspberry leaf for pharyngitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of red raspberry for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral red raspberry leaf for pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of red raspberry for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Respiratory tract infections
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral red raspberry leaf for respiratory tract infections, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of red raspberry for this purpose.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Red raspberry leaf tea is generally considered well tolerated by most healthy adults when used in normal amounts. Still, because high-quality safety studies are limited, caution is wise.

Pregnancy: Although red raspberry leaf is commonly used in late pregnancy, its safety has not been clearly proven. Because some compounds may affect the uterus, you should not start it on your own—talk with your doctor or midwife first, and avoid it in early pregnancy unless advised otherwise.

Breastfeeding: There is not enough reliable information to know whether it is safe while breastfeeding, so it is best to avoid it or check with your provider.

People with hormone-sensitive conditions, those who are scheduled for surgery, or anyone with a chronic health problem should speak with a pharmacist or doctor before using red raspberry supplements.

Side effects

Red raspberry leaf is usually well tolerated. When side effects occur, they are typically mild and may include nausea, loose stools, or stomach upset. The tannins can sometimes cause mild digestive discomfort.

Allergic reactions are possible but uncommon. Stop using it and seek medical care if you develop a rash, swelling, or trouble breathing. If you notice any unusual symptoms—especially during pregnancy, such as cramping or contractions—stop and contact your healthcare provider.

Red Raspberry: Reported Adverse Effects

Documented safety reports on Red Raspberry from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database, shown word-for-word from the licensed record.

Orally, red raspberry fruit is well tolerated. There is currently a limited amount of information on the adverse effects of red raspberry leaf.

Most Common Adverse Effects:

Orally: Diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset, and epigastric pain. However, these adverse effects do not commonly occur with typical doses.

Reports by condition
Asthma Pulmonary/Respiratory

A case of occupational asthma due to the inhalation of red raspberry powder has been reported for a 35-year-old female. Symptoms included wheezing and shortness of breath.

  1. Sherson, D., Andersen, B., Hansen, I., and Kjoller, H. Occupational asthma due to freeze-dried raspberry. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2003;90(6):660-663.
Diarrhea Gastrointestinal

Orally, red raspberry may cause gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, and epigastric pain.

  1. Henrotin Y, Cozannet RL, Fança-Berthon P, et al. Rubus idaeus extract improves symptoms in knee osteoarthritis patients: results from a phase II double-blind randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022;23(1):650.
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

Adverse-effects data: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

Dosing

There is no official or standardized dose for red raspberry leaf. It is most commonly taken as a tea made from dried leaves, and also comes in capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts.

Because products vary in strength, the best approach is to follow the directions on the product label. If you are pregnant or have a health condition, check with your pharmacist, doctor, or midwife before starting, and ask about an appropriate amount for you.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Red Raspberry & Pregnancy

Likely Safe

When the fruit is used orally in amounts commonly found in foods.

  1. Mullen W, McGinn J, Lean ME, et al. Ellagitannins, flavonoids, and other phenolics in red raspberries and their contribution to antioxidant capacity and vasorelaxation properties. J Agric Food Chem 2002;50:5191-6..
Possibly Safe

When red raspberry leaf is used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts during late pregnancy under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Red raspberry leaf is used by nurse midwives to facilitate delivery. There is some evidence that red raspberry leaf in doses of up to 2.4 grams daily, beginning at 32 weeks' gestation and continued until delivery, can be safely used for this purpose. Make sure patients do not use red raspberry leaf without the guidance of a healthcare professional.

  1. Parsons M, Simpson M, Ponton T. Raspberry leaf and its effects on labour: safety and efficacy. Aust Coll Midwives Inc J 1999;12:20-5.
  2. Simpson M, Parsons M, Greenwood J, Wade K. Raspberry leaf in pregnancy: its safety and efficacy in labor. J Midwifery Womens Health 2001;46:51-9..
Likely Unsafe

When red raspberry leaf is used orally in medicinal amounts throughout pregnancy or for self-treatment. Red raspberry leaf might have estrogenic effects. These effects can adversely affect pregnancy. Tell pregnant patients not to use red raspberry leaf at any time during pregnancy without the close supervision of a healthcare provider.

  1. Eagon PK, Elm MS, Hunter DS, et al. Medicinal herbs: modulation of estrogen action. Era of Hope Mtg, Dept Defense; Breast Cancer Res Prog, Atlanta, GA 2000;Jun 8-11.

Red Raspberry & Breastfeeding

Likely Safe

When the fruit is used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of red raspberry leaf; avoid using.

  1. Mullen W, McGinn J, Lean ME, et al. Ellagitannins, flavonoids, and other phenolics in red raspberries and their contribution to antioxidant capacity and vasorelaxation properties. J Agric Food Chem 2002;50:5191-6..
DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 8 references that drive our Red Raspberry monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

  1. Eagon PK, Elm MS, Hunter DS, et al. Medicinal herbs: modulation of estrogen action. Era of Hope Mtg, Dept Defense; Breast Cancer Res Prog, Atlanta, GA 2000;Jun 8-11.
  2. Parsons M, Simpson M, Ponton T. Raspberry leaf and its effects on labour: safety and efficacy. Aust Coll Midwives Inc J 1999;12:20-5.
  3. Simpson M, Parsons M, Greenwood J, Wade K. Raspberry leaf in pregnancy: its safety and efficacy in labor. J Midwifery Womens Health 2001;46:51-9.. PubMed
  4. Mullen W, McGinn J, Lean ME, et al. Ellagitannins, flavonoids, and other phenolics in red raspberries and their contribution to antioxidant capacity and vasorelaxation properties. J Agric Food Chem 2002;50:5191-6.. PubMed
  5. Sherson, D., Andersen, B., Hansen, I., and Kjoller, H. Occupational asthma due to freeze-dried raspberry. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2003;90(6):660-663. PubMed
  6. Cheang KI, Nguyen TT, Karjane NW, Salley KE. Raspberry Leaf and Hypoglycemia in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. Obstet Gynecol. 2016;128(6):1421-4. PubMed
  7. Dudzinska D, Bednarska K, Boncler M, Luzak B, Watala C. The influence of Rubus idaeus and Rubus caesius leaf extracts on platelet aggregation in whole blood. Cross-talk of platelets and neutrophils. Platelets. 2016;27(5):433-9.
  8. Henrotin Y, Cozannet RL, Fança-Berthon P, et al. Rubus idaeus extract improves symptoms in knee osteoarthritis patients: results from a phase II double-blind randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022;23(1):650. PubMed
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Red Raspberry

350 brands in our database make a supplement containing Red Raspberry.

Product directory

Supplement products with Red Raspberry

1,362 products in our database contain Red Raspberry. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Raspberry 1,000 mg Alcohol-Free by Nature's Answer Liquid 1 fl. Oz. · 30 mL Off market View ingredients & interactions Raspberry Extract by BulkSupplements.com Powder 1 KG(s) · 35.3 Ounce(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Raspberry Extract by BulkSupplements.com Powder 100 Gram(s) · 3.5 Ounce(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Raspberry Extract by BulkSupplements.com Powder 250 Gram(s) · 8.8 Ounce(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Raspberry Extract by BulkSupplements.com Powder 500 Gram(s) · 17.6 Ounce(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Raspberry Leaf Tea by Earth Mama Organics Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 0.84 Ounce(s) · 24 Gram(s) · 16 Tea Bag(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Raspberry Leaf Tea by Earth Mama Organics Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 16 Tea Bag(s) · 0.84 Ounce(s) · 24 Gram(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Raspberry Young Shoot by Genestra Brands Liquid 0.5 fl. Oz. · 15 mL Off market View ingredients & interactions Raspberry-Cherry Chewable Vitamin C 500 mg by VSN Vital Strength Nutrition Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 50 Vegetarian Wafer(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Raspberry-Cherry Chewable Vitamin C 500 mg by Vitamer Laboratories Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 50 Vegetarian Wafer(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Red by Nature's Plus Source of Life Tablet Or Pill 90 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Red Raspberry by Herb Pharm Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 29.6 mL Off market View ingredients & interactions Red Raspberry by Herb Pharm Liquid 4 fl. Oz. · 118.4 mL Off market View ingredients & interactions Red Raspberry by Herb Pharm Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL Off market View ingredients & interactions Red Raspberry by Herb Pharm Liquid 1 Fluid Ounce(s) · 30 mL Off market View ingredients & interactions Red Raspberry by Mountain Meadow Herbs Liquid 4 Fluid Ounce Off market View ingredients & interactions Red Raspberry by Nature's Sunshine Capsule 100 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Red Raspberry 950 mg by Nature's Answer Capsule 90 Vegetarian Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Red Raspberry Leaves by Nature's Way Capsule 100 Capsule(s) · 450 mg Off market View ingredients & interactions Red Raspberry Leaves 380 mg by Swanson Premium Brand Capsule 100 Capsule(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Reds Pak by Trace Minerals Research Powder 30 Packet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Rejuvenate Plus for Women by TimeFighters Other (e.g. Tea Bag) 60 Caplet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Resveratrol by youtheory Tablet Or Pill 160 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions Resveratrol by youtheory Tablet Or Pill 290 Tablet(s) Off market View ingredients & interactions
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Red Raspberry: Common Questions

What is Red Raspberry used for, and does it work?
People use Red Raspberry for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.
Does Red Raspberry interact with prescription medications?
Yes. We list 135 medications with a known interaction with Red Raspberry. Use the checker above to see how Red Raspberry interacts with a specific drug.
How are Red Raspberry interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Red Raspberry with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Red Raspberry interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Red Raspberry leaf used for?
It is most commonly used as a tea during late pregnancy and for menstrual cramps, and traditionally for diarrhea and sore throats. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited.
Is Red Raspberry leaf tea safe during pregnancy?
It is a popular pregnancy remedy, but its safety has not been firmly established. Always talk with your doctor or midwife before using it, and avoid it in early pregnancy unless advised.
Does Red Raspberry leaf actually make labor easier?
Some people believe it tones the uterus and shortens labor, but the few studies done are small and mixed. There is not enough strong evidence to confirm this benefit.
Are there side effects from Red Raspberry leaf?
Most people tolerate it well. The most common side effects are mild, such as nausea or loose stools, and allergic reactions are rare.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Products that contain Red Raspberry

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Red Raspberry — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

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