Nutritious Raspberries Once Used Primarily for Medicinal Purposes

Raspberries are native to Europe and Asia in hilly areas, heaths and on the edge of mountains, especially those by acid soils. They are found growing wile in northern Scandinavia and have long been gathered there. Seeds and debris from the plants have been found preserved in the remains of prehistoric lake villages of what is now Switzerland.

Raspberries were included in the practical poetry of Thomas Tusser and noted by Gerard in the 16^th century. At the time the fruit of the closely related bramble was considered far superior and raspberries were used more for medicinal and tonic purposes.

High in fiber, raspberries possess valuable amount of vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, folate, iron and potassium. Raspberries also provide bioflavonoids which may protect against cancer. People sensitive to aspirin should be aware that raspberries contain a natural salicylate which can cause an allergic reaction.  Raspberries also contain oxalic acid which can aggravate kidney and bladder stones.