We’ve been fortunate over the last few years in avoiding the usual round of stomach bugs that seem to emerge in the spring. Huwyl has a strong constitution and is usually able to shake off the viruses that fell those around him. This spring we weren’t so lucky.
I do think his exposure to so many other children at JK has contributed but, whatever the reason, he has had two sickness bugs in a 6 week period. Poor pod. On both occasions I have broken out the Raspberry Leaf tea to help him overcome the effects of the virus on his system.
Raspberry Leaf is a herb that is mostly associated with pregnancy and delivery but in fact it can be used in lots of different situations. The key feature of this herb is its ability to tone and strengthen. This not only applies to the womb during pregnancy and labour but also the other systems of the body.
Raspberry Leaf produces a soothing tea that is pleasant to drink (especially with a little honey, local honey is best) that helps to reduce the effects of illness on the stomach and bowel. I have used this tea and other herbal preparations (albeit in a diluted form) for Huwyl since he was a toddler. I am always amazed at the rejuvenating effect it has on the system.
Most health food stores and large grocery stores carry Raspberry Leaf teabags and these produce a perfectly good tea. I have to admit, though, that I am a real lover of loose leaves. I love seeing herbs in their dried but more natural form. Raspberry Leaves have a springiness and scent that I find soothing in themselves, there is something to be said for the process of preparing a tea. Removing a handful of leaves from the bag, steeping them in freshly boiled water and watching the water absorb their healing properties is a process that actually seems to contribute to their beneficial effects.
A most versatile herb and one produced in abundance by any simple fruit garden, nature has blessed us with a herb that strengthens and works with the human system. I’ve known this herb assist in cases of Cystitis, severe sinus infection, Strep throat, vomiting, diarrhea, birth and labour…the list goes on! So if you, like us, are trying to fight off the effects of spring viruses effecting the stomach and bowel or sinus and throat area consider allying yourself with the healing power of Raspberry Leaf. If nothing else you will benefit from a tasty and nourishing herb and, hopefully, gain a restful moment in your day.
Wishing you good health.
Emmalina and Her Unfeasibly Large Bonnet 
emma! you are just full of new infomation -it is always so good to learn about things I woud otherwise know nothing about! Thanks for sharing and I hope that you are all on the mend soon!!!
Hi Julia! We are all doing much better, the tea seems to have got Huwyl back on line really quickly, fingers crossed this is the last bug for a while. Lovely to hear from you!
Yum! I love raspberry tea…
I’ll get the kettle on!
i have been drinking raspberry leaf tea since i was a child. my mother always made it for me when i was sick. especially when i became a teenager and had fairly severe cramps every month. i even enjoy it over ice!
Another Raspberry Leaf fan! Over ice? Hmmm, that gives me ideas about adding it to popcicles over the summer!