CHILE. Rosehips (Rosa spp.), Tea Bag Cut, Certified Organic
Common names: Dog Rose, Briar Rose, Prickly Rose, Hogseed, Witches Briar, Sweet Briar, Hop Fruit
Family: Rosaceae
Rosa canina and its relative R. rubiginosa are climbing wild Roses native to western Asia, Europe, and northwest Africa, ranging from 3 to 16 feet in height. They have been propagated in many places as a source of nourishing fruit.
Rosehips, as their fruits are called, are known as a rich source of vitamin C and other antioxidants, including rutin, a bioflavonoid that helps the absorption of Vitamin C in the body. They have been used to make wine and flavor soft drinks. Rosehip tea is a traditional remedy for conditions such as viral infections, cystitis, arthritis, and hemophilia.
Much research focuses on Rosehips’ actions for reducing inflammation and pain in arthritis, including a double-blind clinical trial showing improvement in patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis. A triple blind hospital study of women recovering from cesarean sections, who are often catheterized and prone to bladder infections, showed a significant drop in UTIs when Rosehips were given. Two more rigorous human studies provide evidence of Rosehips’ effects in reducing abdominal body fat in preobese patients, and significantly improving crow's-feet wrinkles and skin moisture and elasticity.
Humble, tasty Rosehips, brimming with nutrients and antioxidant power, have clearly earned a place of honor in the “everyday functional food” category of herbs!
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.