Evidence supporting the use of: Raspberry
For the health condition: Bleeding (external)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Raspberry, particularly the leaves of the Rubus idaeus plant, has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine for managing various conditions, including external bleeding. Folk medicine practices, especially in European and North American traditions, often employed raspberry leaf preparations as a topical astringent. The astringent properties are attributed to the high tannin content found in raspberry leaves. Tannins can constrict tissue and blood vessels, thus theoretically reducing minor bleeding when applied externally as poultices or washes.

Despite its traditional use, there is limited scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of raspberry for stopping external bleeding. Most modern studies on raspberry focus on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties or its use in women's health (such as easing labor), rather than wound care. References to its topical use for bleeding are primarily found in ethnobotanical surveys and herbal compendia, rather than in controlled clinical trials. Therefore, while raspberry leaf may have some mild astringent effect due to its tannins, its use in the management of external bleeding remains primarily rooted in traditional medicine rather than supported by robust scientific research.

In summary, raspberry has a historical precedent as a topical agent for minor bleeding, but there is minimal scientific validation for this application. It should not replace standard first aid or medical care for bleeding wounds.

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