Rose hips or haws as they are sometimes called are the fruits that form after the flowers fade, they appear in autumn and are harvested in the fall. The hips are the plumpest and sweetest after the first frost. They are rich in nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin K, calcium, manganese, folate, magnesium, and potassium.
Did you know rose hips have 50% more vitamin C than oranges? They’re also rich in antioxidants and fiber that alleviate chronic inflammation. These tiny fruits are highly effective in treating a wide variety of health conditions.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Rose Hips?
Rose hips health benefits include their capability to:
- reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
- relieve respiratory conditions
- lower cholesterol
- manage diabetes
- increase urination
- regulate digestion
- boost the immune system
- treat inflammation
- increase circulation
- help in building stronger bones
What are Rose Hips?
The color of the fruit is typically red, but it can also be orange, purple, or black. The fruits are some of the most nutritionally dense fruits of any plant, which is why they have become such a desirable and sought-after product in markets around the world.
High in Vitamin C
Cardiovascular Health
The powerful antioxidants polyphenols and carotenoids found in rose hips help to neutralize or eliminate free radicals from your body. It’s the byproducts of cellular metabolism which could damage healthy cells that cause mutation into cancerous cells. Lack of antioxidants is associated with heart diseases, cancer and premature aging.
Relieves Inflammation
The rose hip powder has an anti-inflammatory effect that has been shown in studies to be similar to that of standard over-the-counter pain medications. The powder is effective in relieving arthritis joint pain.
The benefit of using rose hips instead of over-the-counter pain medications is that they have significantly reduced the possibility of ulcers. They won’t cause as much potential damage to the stomach lining.
Lowers Cholesterol
The organic compounds and antioxidant components in rose hips reduce the LDL cholesterol in your body, reducing strain on your cardiovascular system and lowering your chances of suffering a stroke or a heart attack. Consuming rose hip powder as a drink daily reduces cardiovascular risk, dropping your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Controls Diabetes
Rose hips have been shown to regulate the blood sugar level of the body, which is very important for people with diabetes. By keeping the balance of insulin and glucose in the body, they can prevent sudden plunges or spikes in blood sugar that can be deadly.
Aids Digestion
Rose hips are an excellent source of fiber, containing 31 grams per cup. This is important because fiber in your diet keeps your digestive system functioning. Since all the fiber can’t be digested by your body, the fiber adds bulk and absorbs water which helps soften your stool so it can easily pass through your intestinal system.
As a diuretic, they help eliminate toxins from the body, as well as excess salts and liquids. By stimulating bowel movements, rose hips can help you avoid uncomfortable health conditions and discomforts such as hemorrhoids and gastrointestinal conditions like diverticulitis and irritable bowel syndrome.
Rose hips have so many health benefits and you can drink teas, eat the fruits fresh or make different jams or sauces. All great ways to incorporate rose hips into your diet.
