Rosehips

Therapeutic Uses

Anti-aging properties – Rosehip oil is a popular anti-aging substance in the beauty community, though research supporting its benefits is limited. It’s made by cold pressing rose hips and extracting their natural oils. Rosehip seeds are high in polyunsaturated fats, which support a healthy skin membrane and protect your skin from inflammatory compounds, such as ultraviolet (UV) rays, cigarette smoke, and pollution. In one small, 8-week study, taking 3 mg of rosehip powder daily led to a significant decrease in skin wrinkles and significant increase in skin moisture content and elasticity. Researchers attributed these results to rose hips’ robust antioxidant, vitamin C, and fatty acid profile, which all protect and replenish your skin barrier. In addition, using vitamin C directly on your skin has been shown to significantly increase collagen synthesis and cell turnover — the rate at which skin cells replenish. Therefore, products that are naturally high in vitamin C, such as rosehip oil, may have anti-aging effects.

Wound healing – Rosehip oil may also aid wound healing. In a recent study, rats treated with this oil had significantly faster wound healing and less scar development than the control group. However, human research is needed.

May reduce arthritis pain – Rose hips have been well studied for their effects on osteoarthritis pain. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis, affecting 10% and 13% of men and women over the age of 60, respectively. It’s defined as a gradual decline in cartilage in your joints, which can lead to tremendous pain and inflammation. A recent review of 24 studies found that supplementing with rose hips may help relieve osteoarthritis symptoms by combating oxidative stress and inflammation in your joints. Additionally, a review of three studies noted that people taking rosehip powder were twice as likely to report improvements in osteoarthritis pain. Still, a major caveat is the limited number of studies. Finally, a recent review observed that rose hips reduced pain and stiffness in those with osteoarthritis but did not improve range of motion. While rose hips appear to improve osteoarthritis pain, more research is needed to better understand appropriate dosages.

May help with fat loss – Rose hips have been studied as a potential fat loss aid. In a 12-week study in 32 people, taking a 100-mg rosehip tablet each day significantly decreased abdominal fat, compared with the control group. The authors attributed this effect to tiliroside, a potent antioxidant that may increase fat metabolism. This effect has also been shown in a number of rodent studies. However, more extensive research is needed.

May improve heart health – Consuming rose hips may boost heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. In a 6-week study in 31 people, drinking a rosehip beverage containing 40 grams of rosehip powder daily led to significant reductions in blood pressure, total cholesterol, and LDL (bad) cholesterol, compared with the control group. The drink also packed 31 grams of fiber. Not only is high fiber intake associated with better heart health, but rose hips’ high antioxidant levels may also play a role. Nonetheless, further research is necessary.

Medicinal Uses: * Aphrodisiac * Aromatherapy * Beauty * Cuts & Wounds * Facial Care * Herbal Steam * Nutrition * Skin Care

Rosehips Side Effects: None noted

Rosehips Drug Interactions: Rose hip contains a large amount of vitamin C. Aluminum is found in most antacids. Vitamin C can increase how much aluminum the body absorbs. Take rose hip two hours before or four hours after antacids. Vitamin C can increase how much estrogen the body absorbs. Taking rose hip along with estrogen can increase the effects and side effects of estrogens. Large amounts of vitamin C might increase how quickly the body gets rid of fluphenazine (Prolixin). Taking rose hip along with fluphenazine (Prolixin) might decrease the effectiveness of fluphenazine (Prolixin). Taking rose hip might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium. Large amounts of vitamin C might decrease the effectiveness of warfarin (Coumadin). Decreasing the effectiveness of warfarin (Coumadin) might increase the risk of clotting. Taking large amount of rose hip along with aspirin might increase the effects and side effects of aspirin. Vitamin C might decrease how quickly the body gets rid of choline magnesium trisalicylate (Trilisate). Taking rose hip along with salsalate (Disalcid) might increase the effects and side effects of salsalate.