A Rose hip is the fruit of a rose. Also known as rose haw. The wild dog rose is the type of rose most often cultivated for their hips. This plant grows up to ten feet tall and bears a white, very fragrant flower. Once the flower has bloomed, and all the petals have fallen off, the hip is picked and used in a wide variety of preparations.
Rose hips have been used since the Stone Age. Today we are finding out, and proving, that the benefits of this flower fruit are indeed valid.
Health Benefits
Rose hips are the best source of vitamin C; they contain 50% more vitamin C than oranges. A single tablespoon of the pulp gives an adult more than the recommended daily allowance of 60 mg. Because of the high vitamin C content they are an excellent immune system booster, and are often used as a supplement to prevent or treat cold.
Because they contain a variety of antioxidants; carotenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, leucoanthocyanins and catechins, rose hips are considered to be a good cancer preventative.
These same antioxidants are also used to prevent against cardiovascular disease.
Beauty Benefits
The astringent qualities of rose hip makes it a valuable addition in cosmetic preparations. It has the ability to help regenerate new skin cells.
Can be used to treat scars, acne and burns.
While it is an astringent, it does not dry out the skin; actually it helps to rehydrate it, keeping the moisture in.
Drinking rose hip tea daily will also benefit your skin. Rose hips have a high vitamin A content. Vitamin A is commonly referred to as the "skin vitamin". It helps to regenerate skin cells, healing wounds and scars.
It also helps to keep the skin elastic and nourished. This will not only prevent wrinkles, but can actually help to minimize any that have already appeared.