Rosa canina (Rosaceae)

DOG ROSE

The hips of the dog rose are one of the richest sources of vitamin C and are given by herbalists for colds and debility. They are also used herbally for mild diarrhoea nd stomach upsets. Rose petals from other Rosa species are used in rosewater to soothe the skin.

The perfume and beauty of roses attracted civilizations as far back as the ancient Egyptians and Romans. Rose petals of several species were once used as an astringent but are now mainly used in cosmetics and as flavourings. Today, only the hips of the dog rose are used in medicine. A native of Europe, west Africa and Asia, the dog rose can be found growing wild on roadsides and waste ground. It is a thorny climber with oval serrated leaves and strong-smelling, white or pink flowers in summer. The flowers give way to red hips, which are the swollen bases of the flower and not a true fruit.

PARTS USED

Hips.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Ascorbic acid; flavonoids; fruit acids; mucilage.

ACTIONS

Astringent; nutritive.

MEDICINAL USE

Given as a source of vitamin C in debility, colds, and mild infections. It is also used as an astringent for mild diarrhoea and gastritis (stomach inflammation). Chinese medicine uses a close relative of dog rose (R. laevigata) for chronic dysentery, urinary tract infections, menstrual irregularities, and trauma.

PREPARATIONS

Syrup, infusion.