Despite sounding like an anatomical structure, the term rose hips actually refers to the seed pods of roses. All rose species bear these, but becuase most rose bushes are trimmed and pruned we rarely see them today. Normally, species of the Rosa Canina family will form these small, berry-sized, reddish seed balls after petals fall in late summer.
The seed pods, harvested in the late fall, are prized for their medicinal properties and widely cultivated for their usefulness. According to the ancient literature, the Chinese, Persians, Romans, and Greeks all used the rose seed pod for a variety of purposes and sometimes called it a “hip” or a “haw.”
BACKGROUND
Rose hips are particularly high in Vitamin C content, and are said to contain 10 to 50 times as much of this nutrient as in a normal orange. Historically, the rose was also referred to as the “dog rose” and was so named because ancient lore held that the extract derived from it could cure the bite of a rabid dog.
The dog rose was extremely popular during World War II. The British people were encouraged to gather rose hips to make Vitamin C syrup for children to prevent the development of scurvy. German submarines were sinking most commercial ships carrying imported citrus fruits from the tropics and children were developing nutritional deficiencies as a result.
SCIENCE
Much of rose hips’ medicinal activity has been credited to its high concentration of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient with specific functions as an enzymatic colactor and potent antioxidant. Unprocessed rose hips contain about 1,25- mb/100 g of pure Vitamin C. In addition, rose hips contain large amounts of polyphenols, which are also known to possess antioxidative properties.
Rose hips have been studied for their effect on autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. One double-blinded, randomized controlled trial examined 89 patients with known rheumatoid arthritis. The subjects were given either capsules filled with rose hip powder totaling 5 g per day or palcebo for six months. Outcomes were based on administration of a health assessment questionnaire administered at baseline and at six months. These scores improved in the active treatment group but declined in the placebo group.
However, in a meta-analysis of studies on rose hip use, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions were verified, but the German Commission E did not recommend their use, largely due to a lack of sufficient data.
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Even though Citamin C seems to be the major reason for rose hips’ activity, basic research has shown that the polyphenolic compounds in rose hips extract also have therapeutic effects. One study tested the effect of rose hips on polymorphonuclear white blood cells in the respiratory tract. Knowig that reactive airway results in the stimulation of these cells and the subsequent production of oxidative by-products, researchers developed a rose hip extract without the Vitamin C. This extract was then tested on the specific respiratory cell lines. The results still shoed inhibition of oxidative pathways, confirming that Vitamin C is not the only antioxidative component of rose hip products.
SAFETY, INTERACTIONS
Since rose hips are a botanical product, allergic reaction is always a possibility and should be monitored for – especially upon first use of the product. For similar reasons, pregnant or lactating women and infants should avoid these products.
Interactions and adverse reactions typically are centered on the Vitamin C content. Excess Vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal distress and fatigue. Rose hips and Vitmain C enhance absorption of any iron-containing supplements and, in large doses, can potentiate warfarin.
DOSAGE AND COST
Rose hips may be found in powder-filled capsules, liquid extract or as a tea. Typically daily doses in tea form are 2.0-2.5 grams steeped in 150 cc of water several times a day. For rheumatoid arthritis, a powder-filled capsule totaling 2.5 g is typically recommended.
SUMMARY
Rose hips are a mild, pleasant supplement that are safe for routine use. While efficacy data are not robust, there is evidence supporting the supplement’s use, and it builds in the long term. Providers may recommend this product as adjunctive therapy for a wide range of conditions or as a routine preventive regimen.
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Information found on The Clinical Advisor
