Rose hip comes from plants found in parts of Asia, Europe and North Africa. The website Telegraph.co.uk cites this supplement as being used to reduce inflammation before the turn of the century. Throughout the years, it has become a more proven tool for arthritis sufferers thanks to a number of studies. In addition to reducing swelling, it appears to be a good reliever of pain, which is a common symptom in most forms of arthritis.
Explanation
GOPO is a compound that is isolated from rosa canina, the plant from which rose hip comes. According to the website MailOnline, studies in Switzerland have shown GOPO, which is a sugar-filled fatty acid, to be effective in protecting cartilage cells. GOPO can also play a role in controlling genes that produce enzymes and proteins responsible for the destruction of joints in arthritis. MailOnline also reports that rose hip may even regenerate joints damaged by arthritis.
History
Rose canina was used in the Middle Ages to help with chest ailments before its ability to help arthritis became known. In 2005, a study in Copenhagen noted the reduction of osteoarthritis symptoms and the need for medication in those taking rose hip. A follow-up article on Telegraph.co.uk reported that arthritis patients found that rose hip was better at reducing pain than the over-the-counter medication paracetamol, known in the United States as acetaminophen.
Side Effects
The side effects when taking rose hip are minimal. Allergic reaction to the dust of the rose hips may occur. They have also been used as diuretics and laxatives, so those effects are possible. One of the lead researchers on rose hips for arthritis, Dr. Kaj Winther of Frederiksberg Hospital in Copenhagen, Denmark, believes that rose hip can reduce the pain of arthritis sufferers without the side effects associated with some traditional painkillers, such as constipation and drowsiness.
Considerations
In addition to the pain and inflammation benefits for arthritis patients, rose hips are a good source of many vitamins, including A, B, C and K. For this reason, rose-hip syrup has been given to children for nourishment. The website HealthandAge.com reports that combined studies showed a significant improvement of quality of life and daily activities in those who took rose-hip capsules.
Warnings
Since rose hip is a natural source of vitamin C, it is already in many supplements. Read labels carefully to see if you are already taking it within your multivitamin and vitamin C pills before deciding to add it to your diet. Continue to take your medications as directed. Never substitute rose hip---or any supplement---for prescription medication without consulting your physician.
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