Rubus Parvifloris
I was introduced to this plant in June during my herbal immersion class I got to take that was taught by local herbalist Erin Van Hee. What a plant to meet!
The day was beautiful, sunny and within the shade along the Skagit River is where I was introduced to the Thimbleberry plant. The leaves are large, 5 pointed and feel soft and fuzzy on the back. Some of the leaves were larger than my hand and in a beautiful green color.
Before harvesting I introduced myself to the plant, explained why I wanted to harvest and asked permission before starting as part of the protocol that I learned from my teacher. Some people may think that is an odd thing to do but it feels right to do so in honoring nature around us.
Thimbleberry leaves aer best dried and used as a tea to assist in digestive relief to help soothe an upset stomach, relieve diarrhea and support overall digestive health. Another benefit to using tes is to aid in women’s health since the leaves are rich in astringent tannins to help with toning the uterus and helping with menstrual cramps similarly to red raspberry leaves.
For digestive relief the leaves pari well with the following:
Peppermint as this plant can aid in helping relax the muscles of the intestinal tract along with bloating and gas.
Ginger can add warming and stimulation for digestive discomfort.
Fennel seed which is known for reducing cramping and gas. Fennel seed also adda nice slightly sweet licorice taste to counteract the astringent taste of the thimbleberry leaves.
For women’s health the leaves pair weel with the following:
Red raspberry leaf which is the classic “women’s herb” for help with toning the pelvic muscles and easing cramps.
Nettle which along with its deep earthy flavor, it provides a heavy dose of Iron to help with rebuilding blood after menstruation.
Lemon balm adds a bright, citrus taste to soften the astringent taste of the thimbleberry leaf while acting as a gentl nervine to soothe stress.
Rosehips add just a bit of tartness and have a high concentration of Vitamin C which assists with iron absorption and immune health.
Depending on your goals whether it be aid for digestion or women’ts health which pairings sound good to you?
Come share a cup of tea with me!
Lady X
ladyxapothecary-jgrim 
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