Rose hips are the seed-bearing fruit of the rose plant. They are edible and a good source of several vitamins and antioxidants. Combined with vitamin C, rose hip is beneficial for the joints, the immune system and the heart.
Rose Hips and Vitamin C
Rose hips are the sweet-tasting fruit of the rose, harvested from the plant after the blossom as died. Rose hips are rich in vitamin C and also contain catechins, plant sterols and anthocyanins that protect the body against disease such as cancer and heart disease. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that protects the immune system, acts as an antihistamine and helps with the absorption of iron. Rosehips and vitamin C are often combined in supplement form to increase their health benefits.
Heart Protection
Rose hips contain catechins. These are natural antioxidants that help to protect the heart from cardiovascular disease. They are also rich in pectin, which is a complex carbohydrate found in the plant's cell walls. Pectin also helps to protect the heart. Vitamin C boosts the heart-defending effects of rose hip by improving blood vessel function.
Joint Protection
Arthritis is a chronic joint disorder that affects around 50 million adults in the United States as of 2010, reports the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. A study published in the German medical journal, "MMW -- Fortschritte der Medizin" in 2007 indicates that rose hip may be beneficial to people suffering from arthritis. The plant's anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce joint stiffness and associated pain. Vitamin C may help also reduce the symptoms off arthritis by decreasing inflammation.
The Immune System
Rose hips are also a rich source of the antioxidant lycopene. Lycopene supports the body's immune system by preventing the ravaging effects of free radicals. Free radicals can cause a number of disorders, such as liver and kidneys disease, diabetes and heart disease. Vitamin C also boosts the immune system by enhancing white blood cell function and reducing bacteriological activity.
References
- Vegetarian Nutrition:Roses - Medicine for the Heart and Body
- "MMW Fortschritte Medizin"; The Clinical Effectiveness of Rosehip Powder..; K Rossnagel et al.; June 2007
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Arthritis-Related Statistics
- Science Daily:Vitamin C May Reduce Angina, Heart Attack Risks
- Nutra Ingredients: Vitamin C could reduce inflammation
- Healing Daily:Vitamin C
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