Also known as

Rosa canina, Hip Berry, Rose Haws, Rose Heps, Wild Boar Fruit, Wild Rose and Dog Rose

Introduction

Rose hips develop on wild roses as the flowers drop off. The rose hip, also called the rose haw, is actually the fruit of the rose. These fruits are one of the most concentrated sources of vitamin C available. The rosehips that come from the species Rosa Canina, are commonly referred to as the dog rose. These plants are deciduous shrubs native to Europe and western Asia. They typically grow between 1 and 5 meters in height, and possess attractive flowers which range in color from white to pink. The fruit, known as rose hips, appears in early summer, ripening throughout the season and into autumn.

Constituents

Vitamins A, C, D, E, flavonoids, lycopene, iron

Parts Used

Fruit either shelled or powdered

Typical Preparations

Most commonly found in tea and liquors. Seldom found in capsule or extract form.

Summary

Rose hips have a tart flavor and can be used to make jelly, jam, soup or oil, or can be alternatively used to flavor tea. During World War II, the British government used collected rose hips to make rose hip syrup as a source of vitamin C to replace citrus fruits that were impossible to get. Rose hips have a long history of use in traditional medicine. Rose hip tea is a rich source of vitamin C, carrying all the benefits of that vitamin. In addition, the various flavonoids in rose hips have potent antioxidant action. Rose hips contain anti-inflammatory properties and may be used to support healthy joints.

References

http://europepmc.org/abstract/MED/11467225/reload=0;jsessionid=jMlOx3kyihWngHUULj6h.6
http://www.actahort.org/books/690/690_36.htm
http://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/foods/show/7879?qlookup=rose+hips&fg=&format=&man=&lfacet=&max=25&new=1

Precautions

None known.

Origin - Chile