Ascorbic acid is a water-soluble vitamin, also known as vitamin C. Essential to human health; ascorbic acid is an antioxidant that protects cell function. Ascorbic acid is available in many fruits and vegetables and is present in substantial amounts in the seed/fruit of the rose, or the rose hip. While vitamin C is an important part of a nutritious diet, before supplementing your diet with any new vitamin, talk to your doctor.
Ascorbic Acid
Your body uses ascorbic acid to form collagen and to build strong capillaries, bones and teeth. According to the reference book, "Dietary Supplements," this nutrient is also important for detoxifying the liver, metabolizing enzymes, and for synthesizing other nutrients, such as folic acid. Your body does not store excess ascorbic acid and it passes out of the body through the urine.
As an antioxidant, ascorbic acid may block damage caused free radicals, and in doing so, may offer some protection against heart conditions, arthritis and cancer. (Reference 1) Tests are necessary to confirm these benefits.
Rose Hips
Rose hips from the dog rose, or briar rose, contain as much as 50 percent more ascorbic acid than any other rose, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." To harvest your own rose hips, wait until after the first autumn frost. Then pick the firm round fruits and split them in half to speed drying. Store your rose hips in a cool dark spot and use them within one year.
Potential Benefits
The ascorbic acid present in rose hips may be beneficial in building up the body's natural defenses against minor infections, colds and the flu. The "Gale Encyclopedia" suggests consuming up to eight rose hips per day for the best results. Use dried rose hips to make a nutritious herbal tea or to ease menstrual cramps and to reduce symptoms of kidney disorders.
Considerations
Wear protective gloves when harvesting rose hips to prevent thorny pricks. Rose hips are generally safe, but the "Gale Encyclopedia" reports that large doses of the fruit may cause diarrhea. If you're allergic to roses, opt for synthetic vitamin C. Avoid taking mega doses of rose hips or other sources of ascorbic acid. Pregnant women need ascorbic acid, but this nutrient crosses the placenta, so talk to your doctor to determine the best dosage.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- "Dietary Supplements"; Pamela Mason, BSc, MSc, PhD, MRPharmS, 2007
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