Raspberries – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

06/21/2017 / By Russel Davis

Raspberries are among the most popular berries consumed in the U.S., ranking third behind strawberries and blueberries. According to an article in WHFoods.com, raspberries belong to the rose family of plants. Scientifically, raspberries are classified as aggregate fruits that are actually composed of many small, individual fruits fused together on a hollow central cavity. There are more than 200 species of raspberries, many of which are grown commercially and can be categorized according to their color: red, black, and purple. The fruit is available all-year round, and is especially in season between June and October.

List of known nutrients

Raspberries are known to contain a wealth of important nutrients that help stave off diseases. A list compiled by Nutrition-and-You.com includes the most important vitamins and minerals seen in raspberries, such as:

Beta-Carotene
Biotin
Calcium
Copper
Ellagic acid
Fiber
Flavonoids
Folate
Folic acid
Iron
Lutein
Magnesium
Malic acid
Manganese
Niacin
Pantothenic acid
Pectin
Potassium
Pyridoxine
Riboflavin
Sodium
Vitamin A
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B6
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Vitamin K
Zeaxanthin
Zinc

Medicinal uses for raspberries

As with other berries, raspberries are a rich source of antioxidants that combat the effects of free radicals, inhibit tumor growth, and reduce inflammation. Raspberries are known to stave off certain types of cancer such as esophageal, lung, mouth, pharynx, endometrial, pancreatic, prostate, and colon cancer. The high polyphenol content in raspberries are also found to prevent platelet buildup, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The fruit’s high fiber content is touted to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well. This makes the fruit an ideal food against coronary heart disease, stroke, and hypertension.

Likewise, raspberries contain rich amounts of fiber that aid in digestion and cut the risk of developing diabetes. The fruit’s high fiber content is found to promote healthy digestion and fend off a plethora of digestive issues such as constipation. In addition, raspberries are found to contain high levels of manganese, which helps maintain a high metabolic rate and facilitate fat breakdown.

In addition, raspberries are notably high in anthocyanins — powerful compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The anthocyanins in raspberries stave off bacteria and fungi that often lead to various adverse conditions such as vaginal infections and irritable bowel syndrome. Aside from this, raspberries may also be infused in teas to regulate menstrual cycle and ease menstrual flow in women and increase breast milk production in lactating mothers. Likewise, raspberries can be used to alleviate nausea, reduce pain, prevent hemorrhage, and facilitate child birth in pregnant women.

Furthermore, raspberries contain large amounts of zeaxanthins that protect against the harmful effects of blue light. This lowers the risk of developing macular degeneration. Raspberries are known to prevent wrinkles too.

Body systems supported by raspberries

Raspberries are especially beneficial to the heart due to its rich flavonoid and polyphenol content. Likewise, the fruit is essential in keeping a healthy digestive tract and protecting the female reproductive system. In addition, raspberries support the eyes and the skin.

Ways to use raspberries

Raspberries are a popular staple in baked goods such as pies and cakes. Likewise, their sweet flavor makes raspberries a choice fruit for preserves and coolers. In addition, raspberries can be used in making salad dressings, sauces and even soups. Raspberries are also used in making infused tea.