Raspberry Leaves and Extracts-Molecular Mechanism of Action and Its Effectiveness on Human Cervical Ripening and the Induction of Labor

Abstract

The gestational period is an incredibly stressful time for a pregnant woman. Pregnant patients constantly seek effective and reliable compounds in order to achieve a healthy labor. Nowadays, increasing numbers of women use herbal preparations and supplements during pregnancy. One of the most popular and most frequently chosen herbs during pregnancy is the raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus). Raspberry extracts are allegedly associated with a positive effect on childbirth through the induction of uterine contractions, acceleration of the cervical ripening, and shortening of childbirth. The history of the consumption of raspberry leaves throughout pregnancy is vast. This review shows the current status of the use of raspberry leaves in pregnancy, emphasizing the effect on the cervix, and the safety profile of this herb. The majority of women apply raspberry leaves during pregnancy to induce and ease labor. However, it has not been possible to determine the exact effect of using raspberry extracts on the course of childbirth and the perinatal period. Additionally, it is unclear whether this herb has only positive effects. The currently available data indicate a weak effect of raspberry leaf extracts on labor induction and, at the same time, their possible negative impact on cervical ripening.

The Effect of Rubus idaeus Polyphenols Extract in Induced Endometriosis in Rats

“…Nevertheless, the anti-inflammatory effect of RiDE is obtained due to the synergistic effects of various polyphenol compounds. That is, its beneficial effect is supported by its well-known utilization in traditional herbal medicine for centuries, having been used to treat many ailments associated with the female reproductive system, particularly during pregnancy, and to aid in childbirth, with long-lasting effects seen into the modern day [ 82 , 83 ].…”

Chemical composition, pharmacological activity and development strategies of Rubus chingii: A review

“…However, studies have shown that raspberry leaf extract may lead to significant clinical down-regulation and inhibition of intestinal CYP3A4 (an element of the cytochrome P450 superfamily), thereby significantly changing the absorption and pharmacokinetics of the drugs taken, and even inhibiting the cervical ripening process. The ellagic acid contained in raspberry will shorten the clotting time and increase the activity of thrombin, which will lead to more pain in the delivery process ( Socha et al, 2023 ). Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by abnormal glucose clearance and inadequate insulin response.…”