HERBS: ROSEHIPS
Rosa canina
Action: Tonic, astringent, laxative, diuretic.
Systems Affected: Liver, gall-bladder, intestines, kidneys, adrenal
glands, circulation, general effects on the whole body.
Preparation and Dosage (thrice daily): Fresh or dried rosehips, dose
2-5 grams by infusion.
The Dog Rose is native to Europe and western Asia but has been
introduced and naturalized elsewhere, often growing wild in rural
areas. The name comes from the Rosa canina of the Middle Ages, after
the supposed ability of the root to cure wolf and 'mad dog' bites
(rabies). Rosehips have been used as a tart fruit since the earliest
times and their diuretic and astringent properties were utilized by
country folk and herbalists, but it was only during World War II
that they became medicinally important as a source of vitamin C.
Rosehips contain vitamins С, А, В1, B2, E, K, nicotinic acid or
niacin, vitamin P or rutin, iron and copper compounds, as well as
organic acids, tannins and pectin. All of these make Rosehips a
valuable vitamin supplement and tonic, useful in lethargy and
general weakness and for recovery from illnesses such as cold and
flu. (Rosehips seem to have a tonic effect on the blood and on
liver, gall-bladder and adrenal function.)
Rosehips are used for their gentle astringent effect in treating
bleeding gums and diarrhoea. A strong decoction of the hips (75
grams to 500 ml of water) is used for its diuretic effect in fluid
retention and kidney complaints. The leaves may be used as a mild
laxative or in poultices to aid wound healing.
The hips are normally gathered in autumn. They are split open to
remove the hairy seeds and left to dry in a shady well-ventilated
spot. They are widely used in jams and conserves.
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HERBAL