The benefits and harms of raspberries, recipes for use

The benefits and harms of raspberries, recipes for use

Raspberry is a perennial shrub with a two-year life cycle of ground branches. This plant has many names among the people: mamura, bearberry, kosmatka, raspberry. The anti-inflammatory and anti-cold properties of raspberries are known to every person. Berries contain many vitamins and organic acids, leaves are rich in trace elements and phytoncides. Useful properties of raspberries are recognized by official medicine.

Raspberries are grown in different countries of the world. Russia is the largest producer of this berry. In second place is Poland. There are many plant varieties. Farmers brought purple, red, black, blue and even golden berries. In total, scientists know about 15 types of raspberries, which are grown in different parts of the world.

The benefits of raspberries

Composition and calorie content

The calorie content of the product is 52 kcal per 100 g of weight.

Calories 52 KKal

  • Fats:

    0,6 g

  • Proteins:

    1,2 g

  • Carbohydrates:

    11,9 g

  • Water:

    85,8 g

  • Ash:

    0,5 g

  • Cellulose:

    6,5 g

Vitamins (in 100 g):

Quantity

%RDN

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

26,2 mg

37,4%

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)

0,33 mg

7%

Vitamin K

7,8 mcg

6,5%

Minerals (in 100 g):

Quantity

%RDN

Bor

200 mcg

286%

Silicon

39 mg

130%

Nickel

4,4-66,4 μg

25,3%

Manganese

210-670 μg

22,5%

Molybdenum

15 mcg

21,4%

Cobalt

2 mcg

20%

Copper

90-310 μg

18%

Hardware

0,69-1,6 mg

9,8%

Full chemical composition ➤

Other important connections:

  • Phytosterols — 12 mg (21,8% of RDI)

  • Purine — 8 mg (6,7% of RDI)

  • Oxalic acid — 33 mg (8,3% of RDI)

The benefits and harms of raspberries, recipes for use

In addition to organic acids, vitamins, minerals and trace elements, the berry contains anthocyanins. These substances are responsible not only for the color of raspberries. They protect genes from damage, have an anti-inflammatory effect. Anthocyanins help to strengthen the cell membrane, normalize the metabolic processes occurring in them. These natural dyes act as powerful antioxidants and also speed up the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates in the intestines.

In addition, anthocyanins exhibit some antimicrobial properties that quickly reduce the overgrowth of certain bacteria and fungi in the body, which often lead to various vaginal infections, and sometimes even lead to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). [1].

Raspberries contain two types of flavonoids, catechins and epicatechins. They participate in the process of formation of neurons and new blood vessels, contribute to the strengthening of venous and arterial walls. Flavonoids are essential for normal brain function. They have been proven to prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease. [2].

Not only berries are useful for a person, but also raspberry leaves. They have strong antibacterial properties.

9 health benefits of raspberries

Raspberries are not only tasty, but also a very healthy berry. By eating it, you can significantly improve your health:

1 Prevention of diseases of the heart and blood vessels

The anthocyanins contained in the berry can reduce the intensity of inflammation in the vessels, if any, which reduces the risk of developing heart disease. [3].

Scientists have proven that raspberries are better than other foods in helping to increase the concentration of nitric oxide (NO) in the body. This substance allows you to expand the lumen of blood vessels and improve blood flow through them. Therefore, berries must be included in the diet of people who suffer from pathological narrowing of peripheral collaterals. Research on these properties of raspberries was conducted at the College of Public Health, Xinyajiang Medical University, Urumqi, China [4].

2 Antioxidant activity

Research conducted by the University of Toronto School of Medicine states that raspberries have antioxidant potential that may be beneficial for many health problems. [5].

3 Cancer Prevention

The compounds found in berries prevent the formation of tumors in the body. They destroy free radicals that damage healthy cells and contribute to their malignant transformation.

American scientists from the Institute for Cancer Research found that raspberries contain ellagic acid. [6]. Ellagic acid is a phytonutrient component of raspberries with key substances such as kaempferol, quercetin and cyanidin-based molecules called cyanidin-3-rutinoside and cyanidin-3-glucoside-rutinoside. It reduces the risk of developing bladder, lung, breast, esophagus, and skin cancers. Once in the body, ellagic acid molecules deactivate carcinogens. Raspberries should be included in the diet of people who have already been diagnosed with cancer. It has been proven that ellagic acid slows down the spread of metastases throughout the body. [7].

American researchers have found that black raspberries are beneficial for people suffering from oral cancer. It contains substances that destroy tumor cells [8].

4 Diabetes benefits

A study was conducted at the University of Michigan to study the effect of raspberries on the body of people with diabetes. Scientists were able to find out that the phytonutrients contained in it interact with some inactive hormones. This allows you to control the level of insulin in the blood and improve the well-being of patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Another 2019 study concluded that raspberries may reduce postprandial hyperglycemia and have some anti-inflammatory effects in adults with diabetes. [9].

The berry is a valuable product for diabetics, as it contains a lot of fiber. The low glycemic index of raspberries makes it safe to eat, regardless of blood sugar levels.

5 Anti-inflammatory properties of red raspberries

Red raspberries are used to prevent diseases such as:

  • Alzheimer’s disease.

  • Diabetes.

  • Obesity.

  • Cardiovascular pathology.

The benefits of berries have been proven by numerous studies. It contains a unique combination of ellagitannins and anthocyanins. Their intake in the body helps to prevent the development of chronic diseases.

Recent scientific work suggests that ellagic acid from raspberries helps reduce inflammation in the gut. Useful berry for the prevention of gout and arthritis [10]. There is evidence that the substances contained in raspberries have the same effect on the body as drugs (Aspirin and Ibuprofen).

6 Preservation of vision

Raspberries contain carotenoids, zeaxanthin and lutein. These substances help prevent the development of macular degeneration (a dangerous disease that leads to blindness in the elderly).

Just 3 servings of raspberries a day can be an excellent natural remedy for macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is an age-related disease that affects your “midpoint” vision due to retinal damage. [11].

7 Strengthening immunity

For immunity, a combination of antioxidants and vitamin C in raspberries is useful. Vegetable fiber has a positive effect on the body’s defenses. It normalizes the functioning of the intestines and improves its microflora. This allows you to strengthen the immune system, which largely depends on the functioning of the digestive system.

8 Improves memory

Raspberries protect brain cells from damage caused by age-related changes. Thanks to the berry, you can maintain clarity of thought until old age. This effect is provided by flavonoids, which are part of its composition. Scientists have proven that they have a beneficial effect on all cognitive abilities.

9 Eases joint pain

Anthocyanins and polyphenols from berries stop the process of destruction of joint tissues in people suffering from arthritis. This allows you to stop the progression of the pathological process and reduce the intensity of pain.

Benefits for women

The benefits and harms of raspberries, recipes for use

1 Regulates the menstrual cycle

To normalize bowel function and improve the condition of the smooth muscles of the uterus. Therefore, women planning pregnancy should regularly eat raspberries. Raspberry tea helps to regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce the intensity of pain during menstruation.

2 Weight loss

It is impossible to gain extra pounds by eating raspberries. The berry contains a lot of fiber and little fat. It allows you to stay full for a long time.

Raspberries need to be eaten by athletes. It has been proven that the berry covers 95% of fluid loss during an intense workout. Manganese, calcium, phosphorus and potassium help restore disturbed electrolyte balance. Therefore, the berry can be eaten both during training and after its completion.

Raspberry ketones (Rheosmin) have fat-burning properties [12]. Moreover, they act on those lipid deposits that are difficult to eliminate (fat in the abdomen). Ketones absorb excess fat cells, so the weight goes off quickly and without harm to health. All these facts have been proven in numerous studies. [13].

Benefits for men

Experts say that raspberries can improve fertility in both men and women by boosting vitamin C and magnesium levels.

In addition, in a 2012 study, researchers at the US Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found a strong correlation between high vitamin C intake and improved sperm DNA quality. An analysis of 80 male volunteers found that those who consumed the most vitamin C had 20 percent less sperm DNA damage than those who consumed the least. In older men, this nutrient seemed to ‘turn back the clock’ [14].

It appears that consuming more micronutrients such as vitamin C, E, folic acid, and zinc helps older men have the same sperm quality as younger men.

Useful properties of raspberry leaves

The benefits and harms of raspberries, recipes for use

Raspberry leaves are used to treat colds. They help relieve coughs and reduce inflammation and sore throats. A decoction of raspberry leaves has antipyretic properties.

In addition to SARS, tonsillitis and rhinitis, they are used in such areas of medical science as:

  • In cardiology. A decoction of raspberry leaves helps lower blood pressure. Scientists suggest that this effect is provided by the anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties of food acids, as well as nicotinic acid.

  • In obstetrics. It is believed that a decoction of raspberry leaves helps to reduce pain during childbirth. However, official medicine does not confirm these properties of the plant.

  • in gynecology. Raspberry leaves are used to relieve pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation, as well as to reduce the intensity of bleeding. To do this, they take in equal proportions: raspberry leaves, strawberry leaves, yarrow grass, oak bark, goose cinquefoil. To prepare the infusion, you need a tablespoon of the collection, which is poured with a glass of boiling water. Infuse it in a thermos for 6 hours. Then the infusion is boiled for 15 minutes under a closed lid over low heat, cooled and filtered. Taken warm, one glass a day. The course of treatment is a week.

  • in proctology. Raspberry leaves are used to treat hemorrhoids. The condition improves due to the presence of tannins and food acids in them. Together, they have an anti-inflammatory effect. Raspberry leaves (2 tsp) are poured with boiling water (250 ml), covered with a lid, infused for 2 hours. Filter the finished product and inject in the amount of 40-60 ml into the anus. Perform the procedure using a syringe. Repeat the setting of microclysters 1 time per day before bedtime. The course lasts 14-21 days.

  • in dermatology. Raspberry leaves are an excellent remedy for getting rid of acne. The effect is achieved by reducing inflammation. In addition, the infusion of raspberry leaves helps to improve the body as a whole. However, it will not be possible to completely get rid of acne solely with the help of raspberry leaves. You will need to follow all the recommendations given by the doctor.

Decoction of raspberry leaves

The benefits and harms of raspberries, recipes for use

Ingredients:

  • Raspberry leaves in dry form – 2 tbsp. l.

  • Water – 0,5 l.

How to cook:

The leaves are poured with water, brought to a boil and boiled for another 5 minutes. Then the resulting drink is cooled and filtered.

How to use:

The broth is drunk during the day, divided into three equal portions. It is useful for colds, for diseases of the digestive system. If a person has a sore throat, then the decoction is not only drunk, but also used for rinsing.

Raspberry leaf tea

The benefits and harms of raspberries, recipes for use

Tea with raspberry leaves has a pleasant taste, as well as benefits for the human body. It can be prepared from garden shrubs or wild raspberries. You can combine raspberry leaves with other herbs and fruits. This will only increase their healing properties, will prolong youth and beauty.

It is recommended to collect raspberry leaves in late spring and early summer. It is during this period that they contain the most useful substances.

To prepare raw materials for future use, you need to spread the leaves on a flat surface in one layer. They need to be turned over from time to time. They dry for 5 days. You can grind dry leaves with your hands. Store them in containers with tightly closed lids. Nearby should not be products that have a pronounced smell.

Fermented raspberry tea

Fermented raspberry leaf tea is a drink that contains many organic compounds. It is made from fresh leaves. Fermentation refers to the natural process of product fermentation.

To get fermented raspberry tea, you need to follow these recommendations:

  • Collect the leaves and leave them in the fresh air for 10 hours.

  • When the sheet becomes soft, it is twisted with the palms into a tube. Alternatively, raw materials can be passed through a meat grinder.

  • Fold the leaves in layers in an enamel pan.

  • From above they are covered with a damp cloth and left warm.

After a few hours, the fermentation processes will start. A pleasant aroma of freshness will come from a container with leaves. Fermentation takes about 8 hours.

In order to stop the fermentation process, the leaves must be dried at high temperatures. To do this, they are laid out on a baking sheet covered with parchment and dried at a temperature of 100 ° C for an hour. Then the temperature in the oven is reduced to 50 ° C and the raw material is brought to readiness. The final step is drying in the fresh air. To do this, the leaves are left alone for a day.

When the collected raw materials are too coarse, then after drying it, you need to put the leaves in a bag and put them in the freezer for 24 hours. Thanks to this treatment, they will become softer, so twisting them is not difficult.

Raspberry Tea Recipes

The benefits and harms of raspberries, recipes for use

Tea with raspberry leaves is brewed in the same way as regular black tea. For 250 ml of water, 2 tsp will be required. dry raw materials. You need to withstand the tea leaves for 5 minutes, after which you can start drinking tea. Sometimes a thermos is used to infuse tea leaves.

  • Tea with a sedative effect. Mix a teaspoon of raspberry leaves, strawberries and hop cones. The resulting composition is poured with 0,3 liters of boiling water and kept under the lid for 15 minutes.

  • Vitamin tea. In a thermos, a teaspoon of raspberry leaves and berries is brewed. Add the same amount of rose hips and currants. The resulting mixture is poured into 0,4 l of boiling water and kept for 2 hours.

  • Tonic tea. Fermented raspberry leaves and green leaf tea are mixed (raw materials are taken in 1 tsp each). Pour boiling water over them and leave to brew for a few minutes.

Raspberry leaves can be combined with chamomile, cinnamon, oregano, blackberries. Not only hot, but also refreshing teas are prepared from these herbs.

Is it possible to have raspberry tea at a temperature?

An increase in body temperature during a cold indicates the activation of immunity. Thus, the body tries to cope with the infection. Therefore, doctors advise to bring down the temperature only after 38,5-39 ° C.

Raspberry tea is recommended for children at a temperature of 38 ° C. If the child has a tendency to develop febrile convulsions, then you can give him a drink already at 37 degrees. Provided that the body temperature continues to rise, you need to use drugs.

  • Tea with raspberry leaves. This drink can be used to get rid of the weakness caused by the disease. It reduces body temperature slightly.

  • Tea with fresh raspberries. Such a drink has pronounced anti-inflammatory properties and, in addition to everything, helps to increase the tone of the body. Therefore, it is useful to drink it with a cold. Well-being thanks to tea with raspberries quickly improves.

You can’t fight a fever on your own. If the body temperature exceeds 39,5 ° C, you need to contact a specialist. This condition poses a serious threat to health and requires a professional approach to treatment.

Video: is raspberry tea healthy?

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