Though some of the benefits of raspberry leaf tea are still up for debate, there seems to be a general consensus that it’s safe for most adults when enjoyed in moderation. In fact, the European Union’s HPMC notes that there haven’t been any side effects or risks reported with raspberry leaf.
Some health organizations, including the United Kingdom’s Committee on Toxicity, point out that because there’s not a whole lot of research on raspberry leaf tea, it’s not recommended for adolescents or people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, according to Brighten, some advise against drinking the tea during early pregnancy, thanks to a 1950s study in rodents, which found that it could cause2 uterine contractions.
Therefore, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor before drinking it, especially if you’re pregnant. Depending on how far along you are and whether you have any complications or a history of preterm labor, your doctor might recommend sticking to other types of tea instead.
Some anecdotal side effects have also been reported. For example, some people claim that raspberry leaf tea acts as a natural laxative, meaning that going overboard could lead to more frequent bathroom visits. Drinking large amounts might also cause other digestive issues, such as nausea or vomiting, so try to keep your intake at around 1-3 cups per day.
