Health Benefits of Rosa Canina
Rose hips of the species Rosa canina (Dog Rose) are commonly used as herbal teas.
They are also used to make jam, jelly and marmalade. Rose hip soup is popular in Sweden and amongst American Indians.
The rose hip has great curative properties and comes in various forms, mainly processed, for commercial purposes.
The forms are capsules, powders, gels, creams, infusions, teas etc.
Rosa canina are considered to provide a very concentrated form of Vitamin C. Wild roses have a higher concentration of vitamin C than the cultivated roses.
Rose hips assist the body to absorb vitamin C after the breakdown of food in the digestive system. Vitamin C is essential in preventing diseases such as scurvy, which is associated with bleeding gums.
Some of the health benefits of rose hips include:
The Rosa canina active ingredients act as astringents, antidepressants, antispasmodic agents, anti-inflammatory agents and all-over tonic and boost for the body.
The anti-inflammatory properties of rose hip are useful as a natural treatment in patients suffering from osteoarthritis.
Rosa canina are full of bioflavonoids. Bioflavonoids have numerous health benefits, including the prevention of heart disease and cancer.
If you are prone to urinary tract infections, rose hips tea is effective in warding off recurrences of infections. Rose hip tea has long been prescribed for prevention and treatment of the common cold.
Rose hips are used in treatment of stress related complications including stomach ulcers, high blood pressure and other circulatory complications related to stress. They are also used to treat complications related to the uterus.
Rose hip in capsule form promotes wound and burn healing. It also effectively treats allergies, skin disorders, pain, coughs, colds, flu, stress and anxiety. When in cream/gel form, it is commonly used to treat skin disorders and allergies.
Rose hip is also used in cooking. It can be used as a spice in the preparation of meals. Some marinades, jams and jellies include rose hip as an ingredient, which comes in ground or dried form. It is also used in soup preparations.
Rose hip oil is derived from the seed. Pure Rosehip oil contains natural tretinoin, a derivative of Vitamin A, and is proven to delay the effects of skin aging. It helps in cell regeneration and boosts levels of collagen and elastin to create smoother, firmer skin.
The oil can also be used to strengthen weak fingernails. It helps in reducing the effects of scarring, stretch marks, effects of psoriasis and eczema, lumps from scarring, hyper-pigmentation, dermatitis, over-exposure to the sun, fine lines and wrinkles and sunburns. The oils are used in bath waters and in aromatherapy treatment, and are used in cooking.
Rose hip side effects include allergic reactions to the extracts/products.