19 Consider the Raspberry
Reflection
Brilliantly red from northern Asia and Europe spread, the brambling raspberry. Anthropologists tell us that even Paleolithic cave dwellers feasted on raspberries. This plant has a long history with humans. It also has, in my mind, a very unappealing story connected with it. Supposedly this berry was once white; however, as Ida, nursemaid to Zeus, was gathering the fruits one day, she was pierced by a torn of the vine. Her blood covered the berry, and the fruit has been red ever since. Scientifically, this plant is known as Rubus idaeus: the bramble bush of Ida. A sweet and delicate berry, the raspberry fruit grows on canes. I like them raw. I love them straight from the canes. I also toss them onto nice cream and smoothie bowls and onto salads. I blend them fresh—or frozen into smoothies. They are also a nice addition to overnight oats. Do not cook my berries! People do -the griddle them into pancakes or waffles, and stir them into cooked oats; they preserve them too. A popular berry - the raspberry is sweet and nutritious.
Eating the raspberry fruit or making a tea of the leaves has many benefits.
Low in calories, only 65 per cup, fresh raspberries are not the fastest way to get you calories in—which could be a benefit for those who are trying to shed some pounds. They are high in fiber and are curiously, filling. And along with the fiber that is so very good for you, they do have many other nutritional benefits. These delicate fruits are particularly high in vitamin C. Because of this, eating them benefits skin health and helps the body with various functions such as transporting oxygen. Raspberries also provide Vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin B6, calcium and zinc. They are loaded with antioxidants.
Today, the raspberry is thought of mainly as food and is grown for its fruit. But historically, its leaves have been valued as medicine. When made into tea, it soothes the digestive system and reduce cramps.
Enjoy the raspberry!
Sources:
“History of Raspberries.” http://www.indepthinfo.com/raspberries/history.htm. Assessed 18 June 2021.
Groves, M. “Red Raspberry Nutrition Facts, Benefits, and More.” https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/raspberry-nutrition. Assessed 18 June 2021.
