Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

             It should come as no surprise that a plant as delicate and delicious as the red raspberry would have medicinal value as well. In this case it is the leaves of the raspberry plant that are an indispensable addition to any tea cupboard. Recognized by Cherokee women to be vital during pregnancy, red raspberry is reputed to quell nausea, ease labor and delivery, and speed postpartum recovery. Because of its abilities to relax and tone the uterus, red raspberry leaf not only helps during birth and afterward, but it also aids in reducing menstrual cramps and normalizing hormones, while the tannins help to reduce excess menstrual bleeding. Reputed to relieve diarrhea, promote fertility, to relieve sore throats, and reduce fever.

            Red raspberry leaf is rich in nutrients, including calcium, iron, B vitamins, manganese, and magnesium. The tea is flavorful and is a delicious alternative for pregnant women who are missing black tea, as the flavor of red raspberry leaf is reminiscent of a caffeinated tea, and it goes quite well with milk and honey. Red raspberry leaf can also be taken as a tincture.

            Wild raspberry leaves are better than those of the cultivated varieties, but both are beneficial. If you own leaves, make certain that they are completely dry before using; wilted berry leaves are said to be slightly poisonous. Raspberry leaf tea is also mildly laxative.    




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Pomegranate Juice

            Some scholars now believe that it was actually a pomegranate depicted in the Garden of Eden, as opposed to an apple. One of the first cultivated fruits, even discounting the Garden of Eden, pomegranate trees were being planted sometime between 4000BC and 3000BC. Mohammed advised his followers to eat pomegranate, for it purged the system of hatred and envy.

            Reputed to have higher antioxidant levels than any other juice, pomegranate is said to be helpful in the treatment of heart disease, in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, for treating bladder infections, to aid in the expulsion of intestinal worms, and to relieve constipation. The dried bark and skin of the pomegranate is extremely astringent and is an ancient remedy for tapeworm. It will also give relief from diarrhea.

            Pomegranate juice is undeniably an expensive treat (small wonder, considering how difficult they are to eat!), but so wonderfully healthful and delicious it seems well worth the investment. Pomegranate juice contains all of the pleasure of pomegranate, without the work.