Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) is a shrub commonly found in Poland. Although its fruits are also the most famous raspberry shoots contain valuable substances with health-promoting properties. Grandmothers knew this perfectly well, in addition to fruits, they also collected young twigs, dried them and prepared an infusion from them that helped fight autumn colds.
Young, flexible shoots that are not yet woody are best suited for preparing an infusion. They include:
- salicylic acid – a natural equivalent of the substance found in aspirin, it has antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties,
- flavonoids and tannins – support immunity, seal blood vessels and have antioxidant properties,
- vitamin C and minerals – support the regeneration of the body,
- organic acids – regulate metabolism and support the body’s cleansing processes.
The shoots can be harvested all year round – from spring to winter, as long as they are not frozen. They are the best thin, flexible twigs about 20-30 cm long. You can use both fresh and dried.
It is worth recalling that in ancient times such an infusion was the first home “medicine” for fever and cold. Grandma didn’t talk about vitamins or antioxidants – she just knew they worked. And she was right.
Maliniak, as the infusion of raspberry shoots was commonly calledis very easy to prepare. It does not require special ingredients, and the health effects may surprise you.
Ingredients:
- a handful of fresh or dried raspberry shoots (approx. 5-6 twigs 20 cm long),
- liter of water,
- optional: a spoon of honey, a slice of lemon or raspberry juice.
Preparation:
- Rinse the shoots thoroughly and cut them into pieces 3-4 cm long.
- Place them in a pot, pour boiling water over them and cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Set aside covered for about 15 minutes to allow the infusion to infuse.
- Strain through a strainer.
- You can sweeten it with honey or add lemon (after cooling down to preserve the properties of the ingredients).
The infusion is ready delicate, herbal-raspberry aroma and slightly tart taste. You can drink it warm or slightly cooled. The shoots can be brewed again – the second brewing is slightly milder, but still valuable.
Nowadays, many people are discovering this recipe again. However, for the older generation, raspberry was the basis of home health prevention. When the child sneezed and the thermometer showed a low-grade fever, grandma didn’t run to the pharmacy for a sachet – she reached for dried raspberry twigs.
Raspberry shoot infusion has a wide range of health applications. Its action is confirmed by both folk experiences and modern knowledge about plant ingredients.
1. Cold and fever
This is the most common indication for drinking raspberry. Salicylic acid contained in the shoots lowers body temperature and supports the body’s natural defense processes. The infusion has a diaphoretic effect – when drunk before bed, it accelerates the excretion of toxins and relieves the symptoms of infection.
2. Strengthening immunity
Drinking the infusion regularly in the autumn and winter supports the functioning of the immune system. Thanks to the content of flavonoids and vitamin C, the body can more easily cope with viruses and bacteria.
3. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect
Maliniak relieves muscle, headache and joint pain associated with infections. It also has a beneficial effect on the mucous membranes of the throat, reducing irritation and hoarseness.
4. Circulatory system
Flavonoids contained in the infusion seal blood vessels and improve circulation. The anticoagulant effect makes the infusion recommended for people prone to varicose veins and hypertension (after consulting a doctor).
5. Digestive system
It has a mild antispasmodic effect, supports digestion and may alleviate the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. It does not burden the stomach, so it is suitable for drinking after meals.
How often should you drink raspberry shoot infusion?
- As a preventive measure – 1 cup a day, 3-4 times a week, in the autumn and winter season.
- During a cold or fever – 2-3 cups a day until the symptoms disappear.
- After illness – 1 cup a day for a few days to strengthen the body.
Do not exceed three cups a day – the infusion has a diaphoretic and diuretic effect, so in excess it may cause slight dehydration.
Raspberry shoot infusion is a simple, natural way to support immunity and fight cold symptoms. It has antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties, relieves pain and supports the regeneration of the body. In the past, it was a basic remedy in the home first aid kit – grandmothers collected shoots in the garden, dried them and scalded them whenever someone started coughing or had a fever. Today, when we are increasingly looking for natural supports for synthetic drugs, it is worth returning to this tradition.
Source: Terazgotuje.pl
