Rose Hips Herb

(Western Herb)

Rosa canina

Rose Hips herb is also known as Dog rose and Dagger rose.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

The seeds to make Rose hips come from a shrub called Dog rose. It has thorny stems, smooth green leaves, and clusters of five-petaled flowers that are white and tinged with pink. The flowers are followed by large, oval, scarlet fruit (hips).

Dog rose is the classic wild rose of English hedgerows and rambling cottage gardens. It is native to Europe and Asia, and is naturalized in North America. Dog rose grows wild in hedges, along roadsides, and at the edges of woodlands and meadows.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Take internally for:

* colds

* flu

* cough

* bronchial infections

* constipation

* mild gall-bladder problems

* cystitis (bladder infection)

* skin irritations

* depression and nervous tension

* rheumatism

* scurvy

Use externally for:

* scabs and sores

PREPARATIONS:

* Available as dried bulk, capsules, tincture, and oil.

* Can be used as a decoction and syrup.

Parts used: Fruit (hips), seeds, petals, oil

Collection: This herb is gathered in the Fall when ripe. Petals are collected from newly opened flowers.

Constituents: Flavonoids, tannins, Vitamin C, organic acids, pectin

Actions: Diuretic, astringent, mild laxative, nutrient

SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS:

* High does of vitamin C can cause diarrhea and may slightly strain the kidneys.

* Do not use the x potency dilutions of this remedy if you are sensitive to poison ivy.

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