Rose hips, which are the fruit of the rose, are rich in vitamins C, A, D and E. The most common sources for the fruit are Rosa canina, Rosa rugosa, Rosa acicularis or Rosa cinnamomea, but hips can be found in other species of roses. The fruit looks fleshy in appearance hence the name "hips." Other common names include heps and dog rose, which refers to the Rosa canina species.
History
Roses are native to North Africa, Europe and parts of Asia where temperatures are moderate. In the Middle Ages, rose hips were used in folk medicine as a treatment for respiratory ailments. During WWII, the British were unable to import citrus fruits, and thus, they collected rose hips, which were processed into a syrup and administered to children and adults to prevent scurvy. Today, rose hips are used as a nutritional vitamin supplement and made into teas, jams, jellies and soups.
Identification
Roses are perennial bushes identifiable by thorny branches with fragrant pink and white flowers. At the base of the petals, a seeded fruit develops that is red or orange. The oval-shaped fruit contain three or more seeds that are yellow-brown in color. The fruit has a sharp but sweet flavor like cranberries, and the flavor can vary by the type of rose. The rose hips are harvested after the first frost in the fall.
Water-Soluble Vitamins
Fresh rose hips contain vitamin C in large amounts but variations can occur depending on the source, as well as the fruit processing and handling methods used. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is beneficial for wound healing and the prevention of bone malformations called scurvy. Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the body. They must be replaced daily, because they are eventually excreted in the urine.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins
Rose hips contain vitamins A, D and E, which require fat to aid absorption into the blood stream. Fat-soluble vitamins, stored in fatty tissues and the liver, don't require daily replacement. Thus, excess levels cause toxicity. Vitamin A is necessary for bone and tooth development, cell division and reproduction. Vitamin D aids the formation of bones and improves absorption of calcium. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, helps keep red blood cells from being destroyed.
Uses
Rose hips are used as a supplement for vitamin C, and they can be used fresh, dried or preserved. One of the most commonly used products made from the fruit is tea. When preparing rose hips, avoid using aluminum pans or utensils as this metal destroys the vitamin C content. Medical evidence neither supports the use of rose hips as a diuretic or mild laxative nor as a treatment to decrease thirst or relieve gastric complaints.
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