Sunday, January 10, 2016

rose hips, uses & benefits (rose hip, Rosa canina)

rosa canina
Spriggy shrub, normally ranging in height up to 3m., belongs to the Rosaceae family and thrives in temperate climates. Wild rose or rosa canina, known also as the dog rose has pink or white flowers with a rich fragrance. When it throws its petals, the rose hip seeds, appear in oval shape with red or orange colour.
Rose hip seed has been known since antiquity for its healing properties; we find related references by Pliny in 77 AD. who recommended it to patients as a diuretic and laxative. Later on, the rose hip seed was used for cardiovascular diseases, while we find many reports, dated in the Middle Ages, where we read the pharmaceutical properties of the seed. The Omaha Indians used it to cure colds and infections, but also to stimulate the immune system, while during the plague in France, their medications came from the rose hip seed.
rose hip seeds
The rose hip seed is very rich in vitamin C, much more than orange. Indicatively, 100 g of orange contain about 45-50 mg vitamin C, while 100 g of rose hip seeds contain  3000 mg of vitamin C! Unbelievable?
It also contains vitamins A, B, K and P, provitamin A, tannin, pectin, organic and natural acids. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant action and, in addition to colds, it works against anemia, gastrointestinal problems, fatigue, throws bile stones, fights osteoarthritis, absorbs calcium and iron properly, cleans the urinary system and kidneys and prevents fluid retention.
Rose hip oil is considered one of the best anti-aging oils and is the best for skin rejuvenation. We use it widely in cosmetics against aging  and stretchmarks! It treats the strechmarks of pregnant women (it is recommended), relieves from psoriasis, reduces varicose and spider veins, contributes to the production of collagen and elastin, fights free radicals, prevents premature aging. Suitable for acne, acne scars and dry and damaged hair.

Stella Crown©
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