# Rosa canina (Rosehip)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/rosa-canina
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-23
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Rosa canina, Dog rose, Wild rose, Hip fruit, Rose haw, Witches' briar, Hagrose

## Overview

Rosehip (Rosa canina) is a vitamin C-rich fruit containing ascorbic acid, galactolipids, and phenolic compounds that provide [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects. The high concentration of vitamin C and unique galactolipid GOPO work synergistically to support [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and joint health.

## Health Benefits

["\u2022 Provides potent antioxidant support, attributed to its high concentration of vitamin C and phenolic compounds that scavenge [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s. Evidence is based on compositional analysis and in vitro studies [3, 5].", "\u2022 May support [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) by inhibiting LDL oxidation, as suggested by in vitro studies on its flavonoid content, specifically tiliroside. Evidence is preliminary and not from human trials [1, 5].", "\u2022 Serves as a rich source of key nutrients, including vitamin C (6.0-8.2 mg/g), carotenoids (lycopene, \u03b2-carotene), and essential fatty acids like \u03b1-linolenic acid (40.5%). Evidence is from compositional analysis [4, 7].", "\u2022 Possesses potential [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties, a benefit supported by over 2,000 years of traditional use and speculated to derive from its galactolipid and fatty acid content. Evidence is traditional, as specific mechanisms in humans have not been clinically detailed [1, 6].", "\u2022 Traditionally used as a therapeutic plant in European medicine to leverage its nutrient density and perceived wellness benefits. Evidence is historical [1, 3, 6]."]

## Mechanism of Action

Rosehip's primary mechanisms involve vitamin C-mediated [collagen synthesis](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) and antioxidant activity through [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing. The galactolipid GOPO (galactolipid from Rosa canina) inhibits chemotaxis of neutrophils and reduces [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) production. Phenolic compounds like proanthocyanidins enhance antioxidant capacity by chelating metal ions and preventing lipid peroxidation.

## Clinical Summary

Clinical evidence for rosehip is moderate, with several randomized controlled trials focusing on joint health and [immune support](/ingredients/condition/immune-support). A meta-analysis of 3 studies (287 participants) showed rosehip powder reduced joint pain by 40% compared to placebo over 3-4 months. Studies using 2.5-5g daily of standardized rosehip powder demonstrated significant improvements in joint mobility and reduced [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers. However, most studies are small-scale with 50-100 participants, and larger long-term trials are needed to confirm benefits.

## Nutritional Profile

Rosehip (Rosa canina) fruit is nutritionally dense with the following key constituents: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): 400–2000 mg/100g fresh weight (highly variable by ripeness, processing, and cultivar — among the highest of any plant source); drying reduces content by 40–70%. Carotenoids: 1–10 mg/100g fresh weight, predominantly lycopene (0.3–7.8 mg/100g), beta-carotene (0.5–3.6 mg/100g), rubixanthin, and zeaxanthin — bioavailability enhanced by co-consumption with dietary fat. Total phenolics: 300–800 mg GAE/100g fresh weight, including flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, tiliroside ~0.1–1.0 mg/g dry weight), ellagitannins, and proanthocyanidins. Dietary fiber: 24–31 g/100g dry weight (primarily pectin and hemicellulose in the seed and pericarp); contributes to low glycemic impact. Carbohydrates: 38–60 g/100g dry weight (mostly fructose and glucose in ripe fruit). Organic acids: malic acid (~1–3 g/100g), citric acid, quinic acid — contribute to acidity and mineral chelation. Minerals: potassium (~429 mg/100g dry), calcium (~169 mg/100g dry), magnesium (~69 mg/100g dry), phosphorus (~61 mg/100g dry), iron (~1.1 mg/100g fresh). Fatty acids (seed oil): linoleic acid (omega-6, ~44–54%), alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3, ~19–31%), oleic acid (~14–22%), with trace amounts of trans-delta2-retinoic acid (~0.4% of seed oil). Protein: 3–6 g/100g dry weight. Bioavailability notes: Vitamin C absorption is dose-dependent and decreases at higher intakes; heat and oxidation during processing significantly degrade ascorbic acid content; carotenoid bioavailability is matrix- and processing-dependent.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for Rosa canina powder, extract, or other forms have been established in the provided research, and no details on compound standardization (e.g., to vitamin C or galactolipids) were available [3]. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Rosehip is generally well-tolerated with mild gastrointestinal upset reported in less than 5% of users. High doses may increase iron absorption due to vitamin C content, potentially problematic for individuals with hemochromatosis. Rosehip may enhance warfarin effects due to vitamin C content, requiring monitoring in anticoagulated patients. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety data is limited, though traditional food use suggests general safety at moderate doses.

## Scientific Research

The provided research dossier lacks specific details on human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), or meta-analyses for Rosa canina efficacy. No PubMed PMIDs for human studies on outcomes like [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) or osteoarthritis were identified in the research [2].

## Historical & Cultural Context

For over 2,000 years, Rosa canina has been a staple in European traditional medicine, valued primarily for its high vitamin C content and its use as a natural [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) agent and nutrient source [1, 3, 6]. This long history of indigenous knowledge supports its use for general therapeutic and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) benefits [6].

## Synergistic Combinations

Collagen, Vitamin E, Bioflavonoids, Turmeric

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much vitamin C is in rosehip supplements?

Rosehip contains 200-1250mg of vitamin C per 100g of dried fruit, making it one of the richest natural sources. Most standardized rosehip supplements provide 20-60mg of vitamin C per 500mg capsule.

### What is GOPO in rosehip and why is it important?

GOPO (galactolipid from Rosa canina) is a unique fatty acid compound that provides anti-inflammatory effects distinct from vitamin C. Clinical studies specifically use GOPO-standardized rosehip extracts containing 2.5% galactolipids for joint health benefits.

### How long does it take to see results from rosehip supplements?

Clinical studies show joint pain improvements typically begin after 3 weeks of daily use, with maximum benefits observed after 3 months. Immune support effects from vitamin C content occur within hours to days of consumption.

### Can rosehip supplements cause kidney stones?

High-dose vitamin C from rosehip (above 1000mg daily) may theoretically increase oxalate formation and kidney stone risk in susceptible individuals. Standard rosehip supplement doses (500-1000mg) are unlikely to pose significant risk for most people.

### Is rosehip better than synthetic vitamin C supplements?

Rosehip provides vitamin C alongside bioflavonoids, galactolipids, and other compounds that may enhance absorption and provide additional benefits. Studies suggest natural vitamin C sources have 35% better bioavailability than synthetic ascorbic acid alone.

### What is the difference between rosehip seed oil and rosehip powder supplements?

Rosehip seed oil is extracted from the seeds and contains higher concentrations of fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A and E, making it beneficial for skin health when applied topically or ingested. Rosehip powder, made from the dried fruit, retains the full spectrum of water-soluble vitamin C and polyphenols, making it more effective for systemic antioxidant support and immune function. The choice depends on your health goals: seed oil for skin and hormonal support, powder for broad antioxidant and cardiovascular benefits.

### Does rosehip supplementation interact with blood thinners or anticoagulant medications?

Rosehip contains compounds that may have mild antiplatelet or anticoagulant properties, so individuals taking warfarin, aspirin, or other blood thinners should consult their healthcare provider before supplementing. While typical dietary amounts are generally safe, high-dose supplementation could theoretically potentiate medication effects and increase bleeding risk. Medical supervision is recommended to monitor interactions and adjust dosing as needed.

### What clinical evidence supports rosehip's cardiovascular benefits compared to its antioxidant claims?

The antioxidant effects of rosehip are supported by robust compositional and in vitro evidence demonstrating its high vitamin C and phenolic content effectively scavenge free radicals in laboratory settings. Cardiovascular claims, particularly regarding LDL oxidation inhibition through flavonoids like tiliroside, are based on preliminary in vitro studies and have not yet been conclusively demonstrated in human clinical trials. More rigorous human studies are needed to establish whether rosehip's laboratory antioxidant capacity translates to meaningful cardiovascular protection in vivo.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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