Rosehip or Dog Rose (Rosa canina)

The fruit of the dog rose is rich in vitamins and is used to strengthen the immune system. It is also helpful in preventing kidney ailments, especially the build up of stones, and it may provide relief for arthritis.

In herbal practice, the part most often used from rosehip or dog rose (Rosa canina) is its fruit, the rosehip, which is rich in vitamin C, vitamin B2 and antioxidants. Owing to its high vitamin C content, rosehip preparations are taken to boost immunity. They are therefore recommended as a complementary aid during treatment and recovery, and they also help the body resist infections such as colds and flu. Rosehips contain tannins with an astringent effect, which helps ease bouts of diarrhea, especially when brought on by fever. Pectins and organic acids in rosehips act as a gentle diuretic, while the organic acids stimulate the secretion of digestive juices and can soothe gastritis. Recent studies indicate that rosehip may help reduce pain and improve joint mobility in arthritis.

Rosehip tea is also used for inflammatory kidney conditions, particularly to help prevent recurrence. Anyone prone to a build up of grit and stones in the kidneys or in the bladder should drink rosehip tea over a longer period. Thanks to its gently tart flavor, rosehip tea offers pleasant refreshment during feverish illnesses. In folk medicine, the seeds are used for stones, kidney and bladder disorders, as well as rheumatism and gout. Rosehip jam is a valuable extra source of vitamin C in winter. The dog rose can be propagated from cuttings in moist, well drained soil that is rich in nutrients. Neutral or slightly acidic soil in a sunny location is ideal. Fully ripe rosehips are harvested from June to September, then dried and crushed into smaller pieces.

Rosehip tea

Ingredients: one teaspoon of crushed rosehips, one cup of boiling water

Preparation: Place one teaspoon of crushed rosehips in a cup of boiling water. Cover and leave to infuse for ten minutes, then strain. If you are taking it as a remedy for respiratory conditions, sweeten with honey. Otherwise, leave it unsweetened.

Use: Drink three cups a day.

Rosehip brandy to support immunity

Ingredients: 250 g rosehips, 250 g sugar, one liter of grape brandy at 45 percent alcohol, 250 g sugar

Preparation: Chop the rosehips and place them in a 1.5 liter glass jar. Pour in the grape brandy, add the sugar and leave for ten days in a warm place. Shake occasionally. Strain and decant into bottles.

Use: Approximately 0.4 dl per day.

Caution! Rosehip tea has no known harmful effects and can be consumed over a longer period.