Rosehip

Description

Rosehip (Rosa canina) is the fruit of the rose which develops after the petals have fallen off the blossom. It has and is being studied extensively for treating osteoarthritis symptoms (See 060183.358). Used extensively in World War II for the treatment of scurvy, rosehip’s vitamin C content is the highest among botanicals and has 60 times the vitamin C found in lemons. Rich in bioflavonoids, rosehip can help build and strengthen body tissue, may aid in cancer therapy as well as treatment for arteriosclerosis. It is good for the blood vascular system, including preventing and healing of capillary fragility. Rosehip also contains vitamin E, selenium, manganese, and the B-complex vitamins, as well as trace amounts of magnesium, potassium, sulfur and silicon. Rosehip is a mild laxative and diuretic. It is said to calm the nerves and help with exhaustion. It can aid in treating colds, flu, and other illnesses where vitamin C is helpful. Perhaps one of the most used benefits of rosehip is actually topical. Rosehip oil is high in gamma linoleic acid (GLA), a fatty acid which is good for promoting healthy skin and repairing sun damage. Used at 10-20% in a carrier oil base, rose hip oil can ease stretch marks, eczema, burns, and scars. It is also used in rejuvenative skin care for aging skin. Rosehip can be prepared as jelly, tea, syrup, and wine.