Rose hips have no actual relationship to roses, but their color is similar to that of the red rose. Rose hips are actually a fruit produced on a perennial plant which bears thorny branches with white and pink flowers. The fruits are oval and can look fleshy and wrinkled, according to Drugs.com. Rose hips have been used as an alternative medicine for centuries, but scientists are still learning about their uses.
Vitamin C
Rose hips are a potent natural source of vitamin C, and have a greater concentration of vitamin C than do many different source, including citrus fruits, broccoli, kale, kiwi, guavas and other tropical vegetables. According to Drugs.com, rose hips have about 1,250 mg of vitamin C per 100 g of fruit, although this concentration can vary in dried rose hips. For this reason, rose hips are commonly used as a supplement for the treatment of vitamin C deficiency.
Arthritis Treatment
In 2007, researchers in Germany and Denmark combined forces and reported significant results regarding the use of rose hips to treat arthritis, according to BBC News. While the tested sampling size was small, the symptoms of arthritis among individuals taking rose hips improved by almost 25 percent, while 40 percent reported a reduction in joint pain. This research suggests that rose hips can be taken daily as supplements to reduce the symptoms associated with arthritis.
Other Nutrients
According to Drugs.com, rose hips are loaded with other nutrients aside from vitamin C, including vitamins A, K, B1, B2 and B3. HealthNews.com also reports that rose hips contain small amounts of potassium, magnesium and silicon, all of which are key nutrients to bodily health. Rose hips also contain valuable proteins and enzymes, including pectin, tannins, flavonoids and carotenoids.
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