Herb Notes: The Benefits of Rosehips

Roses (Rosa spp.) offer a bounty of healing gifts through their fragrant flowers and nutrient-dense fruits. Rosehips are chockfull of vitamin C: making them an incredibly supportive herbal ally.

Let's dive into 3 benefits of rosehips...

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1. Rosehips for Arthritis

With their bioflavonoid-rich fruits, rosehips can help modulate inflammation. Studies show that regularly ingesting rosehips can help ease the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Rosehips' gifts shine in a tart decoction that can be enjoyed on its own or with a spoonful of honey—this rosehip tea is delicious!¹

2. Rosehips for Immunity

Did you know that freshly-harvested rosehips have more vitamin C per weight than an orange? The fresher the rosehips, the stronger their vitamin C content is. Working with fresh rosehips can allow you to support your immune system with their rich vitamin C content.

3. Rosehips Seed Oil for Skincare

The seeds of rosehips are commercially processed to create rosehip seed oil, which is an excellent facial serum. The oil contains vitamin A, vitamin C, and E, which work together to promote tissue repair and collagen formation. Rosehip seed oil can also help reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes.²

Rosehips Contraindications

Excited to work with rosehips? Here are a few things to keep in mind... First of all, avoid working with rosehips that have been sprayed with pesticide. Almost all florist roses have been sprayed. 

It's also important to properly process your rosehips. Rosehips contain seeds and hairs that can irritate the digestive tract. Take care to remove all the seeds and hairs before ingesting your rosehips remedies.³

Want to Learn More About Other Common Herbs' Benefits?

Now that you've learned a little bit about the health benefits of rosehips, you might be wondering how you can learn more about the medicinal properties of other common plants.

Well, here’s the easy way to get more info about some of our favorite herbs: download a FREE deck of our top 12 Herb Notes here. You’ll learn all about the medicinal properties of common herbs like elderberry, dandelion, and more.

Here are some frequently asked questions about rosehips...

What are some remedies I can make with rosehips?

You can enjoy rosehip syrup, rosehip tea, rosehip vinegar, and more. Rosehip oil can be applied topically to your skin. Rosehip powder can also be incorporated into smoothies and cooking.

What are some species of rose I can work with?

There are many rose species you can work with. Some include the following: Rosa rugosa, Rosa canina, Rosa damascena, and Rosa multiflora.

Written by Tara Ruth

Tara Ruth is an herbalist and the Communications Director at LearningHerbs. She graduated from the California School of Herbal Studies’ Community Herbalist Program and is a total herb nerd. Tara is passionate about teaching folks how to become confident home herbalists. In her free time, you can find Tara hiking in the forest and waving to all the plants along the way.

Footnotes

1. de la Forêt, Rosalee “Rose Monograph.” HerbMentor. Accessed August 25th, 2024. https://learningherbs.com/herbmentor/ 

2. Parker, Susan M. Power of the Seed. Process Media, 2014.

3. de la Forêt, Rosalee “Rose Monograph.” HerbMentor. Accessed August 25th, 2024. https://learningherbs.com/herbmentor/