# Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/red-raspberry
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** Native American
**Also Known As:** Rubus idaeus, European Raspberry, Red Raspberry Leaf, Framboise, Himbeere, Raspberry, Garden Raspberry

## Overview

Red raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) contains tannins, flavonoids, and anthocyanins that provide [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) with DPPH radical scavenging capacity of 6746 ± 555 μmol TE/100g. The leaf extracts demonstrate selective cytotoxicity against tumor cell lines through polyphenolic compounds that modulate cellular oxidative stress pathways.

## Health Benefits

• [Antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (preliminary evidence): In vitro studies show strong radical scavenging capacity (DPPH 6746 ± 555 μmol TE/100g) from tannins, flavonoids, and anthocyanins
• Selective cytotoxicity (preliminary evidence): Leaf extracts demonstrated cytotoxic effects on tumor cell lines (Caco-2, HL60) while being proliferative on healthy cells in laboratory studies
• Antibacterial properties (preliminary evidence): Steam-distilled leaf extracts showed modest antibacterial activity against two bacterial strains in vitro
• Vasodilation potential (preliminary evidence): Fruit ellagitannins (sanguiin H-6, lambertianin C) demonstrated vasodilatory effects in fractionation studies
• Apoptosis induction (preliminary evidence): Active compounds like 1,8-cineole showed caspase-3 activation in tumor cells through apoptosis pathways

## Mechanism of Action

Red raspberry leaf's bioactive compounds including ellagitannins, quercetin, and cyanidin-3-glucoside neutralize [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) through electron donation and chelation of metal ions. The tannins interact with cellular membranes and proteins, potentially disrupting cancer cell proliferation pathways while sparing healthy cells. Flavonoids modulate antioxidant enzyme systems including superoxide dismutase and catalase.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence is limited to preliminary in vitro studies demonstrating strong antioxidant capacity and selective cytotoxicity against Caco-2 tumor cell lines. No completed human clinical trials have validated these effects in vivo. The [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) shows promising DPPH radical scavenging values comparable to other potent botanical antioxidants. More research including animal studies and human trials is needed to establish clinical efficacy and optimal dosing protocols.

## Nutritional Profile

Per 100g fresh red raspberries: Macronutrients — Carbohydrates 11.9g (of which sugars 4.4g), Dietary fiber 6.5g (one of the highest fiber contents among common berries), Protein 1.2g, Fat 0.6g (including omega-3 ALA ~0.13g), Water ~85.8g, Energy 52 kcal. Key Micronutrients — Vitamin C 26.2mg (29% DV), Vitamin K 7.8μg, Vitamin E 0.87mg, Folate 21μg, Manganese 0.67mg (29% DV), Magnesium 22mg, Potassium 151mg, Copper 0.09mg, Iron 0.69mg. Bioactive Compounds — Ellagitannins (primarily sanguiin H-6 and lambertianin C): 1500–4000mg/100g dry weight, representing the dominant polyphenol class and primary contributors to the reported DPPH radical scavenging value of 6746 ± 555 μmol TE/100g; Anthocyanins: 20–60mg/100g fresh weight, predominantly cyanidin-3-sophoroside and cyanidin-3-glucosylrutinoside; Ellagic acid (free form): 8–25mg/100g fresh weight, with urolithin A produced post-gut [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) as a bioavailable derivative; Flavonols: quercetin glycosides 3–8mg/100g; Catechins/proanthocyanidins: 50–100mg/100g; Raspberry ketone (rheosmin): trace amounts ~1–4mg/100g fresh; Tiliroside (kaempferol glycoside): present in leaves at higher concentrations than fruit. Bioavailability Notes — Ellagitannins are poorly absorbed intact but are hydrolyzed to ellagic acid and further converted by gut microbiota to urolithins (urolithin A, B), which are bioavailable and considered the primary active metabolites; conversion efficiency is highly individual and dependent on [microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) composition. Anthocyanins show low-to-moderate bioavailability (~1–5% absorption), with peak plasma levels ~1–2 hours post-consumption. Vitamin C bioavailability is high (~80–90%). Leaf preparations (used in Native American contexts) contain higher concentrations of tannins and flavonoids compared to fruit, particularly fragarine alkaloid-like compounds and polypeptides not present in significant quantities in the fresh berry.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available as human trials have not been conducted. In vitro studies used steam-distilled leaf extracts and fruit phenolic profiles quantified at 187-391 mg GAE/100g fresh weight, but therapeutic dosages have not been established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Red raspberry leaf is generally recognized as safe when consumed as a food or tea, with mild gastrointestinal upset being the most common side effect. May interact with anticoagulant medications due to potential blood-thinning properties from salicylates. Pregnant women should consult healthcare providers before use, as traditional claims about uterine effects lack sufficient safety data. No established drug interactions or serious adverse effects have been documented in available literature.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses were found in the research dossier. All available evidence comes from in vitro (laboratory) studies examining [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity, cytotoxicity, and antibacterial effects of leaf and fruit extracts.

## Historical & Cultural Context

While the research notes that red raspberry leaves and fruits have bioactive potential for food, cosmetics, and supplements, specific historical traditional medicine systems or durations of use are not detailed. The research focuses on modern bioactivity profiles rather than documenting traditional applications in systems like Ayurveda or Traditional Chinese Medicine.

## Synergistic Combinations

Vitamin C, Green tea extract, Quercetin, Resveratrol, Pomegranate extract

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What compounds make red raspberry leaf effective?

Red raspberry leaf contains ellagitannins, flavonoids like quercetin, and anthocyanins including cyanidin-3-glucoside. These polyphenolic compounds provide the antioxidant activity measured at 6746 ± 555 μmol TE/100g DPPH radical scavenging capacity.

### How much red raspberry leaf should I take daily?

No standardized dosage exists due to lack of human clinical trials. Traditional use suggests 1-3 cups of tea daily made from 1-2 teaspoons dried leaf. Supplement dosages vary widely from 400-800mg standardized extract daily.

### Is red raspberry leaf safe during pregnancy?

While traditionally used during pregnancy, scientific evidence for safety is limited. Some sources suggest avoiding use in early pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulating effects. Consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

### Can red raspberry leaf help with cancer prevention?

In vitro studies show selective cytotoxicity against Caco-2 tumor cell lines, but no human studies confirm cancer prevention benefits. The antioxidant compounds may theoretically reduce oxidative stress linked to cancer development, but clinical evidence is lacking.

### What's the difference between red raspberry fruit and leaf benefits?

Red raspberry leaves contain higher concentrations of tannins and show stronger antioxidant activity than the fruit. The fruit provides vitamin C and anthocyanins, while leaves offer ellagitannins and stronger DPPH radical scavenging capacity for potential therapeutic applications.

### Does red raspberry leaf interact with blood thinners or anticoagulant medications?

Red raspberry leaf contains compounds that may have mild anticoagulant properties, so individuals taking warfarin, aspirin, or other blood thinners should consult their healthcare provider before supplementing. While traditional use suggests it's generally safe, the combination could theoretically increase bleeding risk in sensitive individuals. Medical supervision is recommended to monitor for any interactions or adverse effects.

### Who benefits most from red raspberry leaf supplementation?

Red raspberry leaf is traditionally used by women seeking hormonal support during menstrual cycles and menopause, as well as those interested in antioxidant protection from its high tannin and flavonoid content. Individuals with digestive concerns may also benefit from its astringent properties, though evidence is primarily from traditional use rather than large clinical trials. People with inflammatory conditions may find value in its preliminary in vitro antioxidant activity, though human studies are limited.

### What form of red raspberry provides better bioavailability—leaf extract, tea, or whole leaf?

Standardized leaf extracts and concentrated preparations generally deliver higher concentrations of active compounds (tannins, flavonoids, anthocyanins) per dose compared to brewed tea, potentially offering better bioavailability for specific health applications. Whole leaf tea, while less concentrated, provides a more traditional delivery method with good tolerability and ongoing antioxidant exposure over time. Individual absorption depends on digestive health, but extracts are preferred when targeting specific effects demonstrated in laboratory studies, such as antioxidant activity.

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