Rose Hips
Rosa rugosa & Rosa rubiginosa, Rosaceae
Rose hips are particularly high in vitamin C content, one of the richest plant sources available. However, assays of fresh rose hips and several commercially available products revealed a wide range of L-ascorbic acid content, ranging from 0.03 to 1.3%.[1] Rose hips of some species, especially Rosa canina (Dog Rose) and R. majalis, have been used as a source of vitamin C. Rose hips also contain some vitamin A and B, essential fatty acids and antioxidant flavonoids.
A study of a rose-hip preparation for treating rheumatoid arthritis concluded that there was a benefit, apparently due to both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects.[2] Rose hips are used for colds and influenza.
[1] Ziegler SJ, Meier B, Sticher O (October 1986). “Fast and Selective Assay of l-Ascorbic Acid in Rose Hips by RP-HPLC Coupled with Electrochemical and/or Spectrophotometric Detection”. Planta Medica 52 (5): 383–7.
[2] BBC News: Rose-hip ‘remedy’ for arthritis. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6763017.stm
Rose hip seed oil is a pressed seed oil, extracted from the seeds of a rose bush (Rosa moschata or Rosa rubiginosa) which grows wild in the southern Andes. It is unique among vegetable oils in containing retinol (Vitamin A), and is also high in vitamin C. Rose hip seed oil is high in the essential fatty acids – linoleic acid or omega-6, and linolenic acid or omega-3. It is commonly used in skin care products.[1] It is used for a variety of skin conditions, including dermatitis, acne and eczema, for mature and sun burnt skin as well as brittle nails and wrinkles. Rose hip oil is also frequently used to heal scarring and diminish photo-aging.[2]
Most rose hip seed oil is produced in Chile and Argentina.
Major components – Average composition of fatty acids (%)
Linoleic acid (C18:2) 45.5%
Linolenic acid (C18:3) 33.4%
Oleic acid (C18:1) 15.4%
Palmitic acid (C16) 3.8%
Stearic acid (C18:0) 1.9%
Rosehip Seed Oil (Rosa Affinis Rubiginosa) contains Vitamin A, which helps to delay the effects of skin aging, assists with cell regeneration, and promotes collagen and elastin levels to increase. This results in firmer, smoother, and more youthful skin with greater elasticity. Rosehip seed oil also contains a high amount of essential fatty acids and Vitamin E, which further promotes healthy skin. In particular, it is rich in linoleic and linolenic acids, which are important skin nutrients.
[1] “Aromatic: Rose hip seed oil”http://www.aromantic.co.uk/rosehip-seed-oil.htm
[2] “Kobashi: Rose hip Seed Oil info.”http://www.kobashi.co.uk/info_CROS1.html
Products that contain Rose Hips
