# Rosa centifolia

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/rosa-centifolia
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-02
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** Cabbage rose, Provence rose, Rose pâle, Rosae flos, Rosa centifolia L., Rose petals, Hundred-petaled rose, Rose de Mai, Rose de Provence

## Overview

Rosa centifolia, the cabbage rose, contains bioactive polyphenols including flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol) and tannins (gallotannins) that drive its primary [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and astringent actions. These compounds inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators and exert [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) effects on mucosal and dermal tissues.

## Health Benefits

• May help reduce mild inflammation in mouth and throat (Traditional use classification by EMA - no clinical trials available)
• Potentially soothes mild skin inflammation (Traditional use based on 30+ years of documented use - no RCT evidence)
• Demonstrated [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects in animal models (64-128 mg/kg ethanol extract reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema - preclinical evidence only)
• Shows antimutagenic properties in vitro (55% reduction in ethyl methanesulfonate mutation frequency - laboratory evidence only)
• May possess antiarthritic activity (Demonstrated in animal models only - no human studies available)

## Mechanism of Action

The gallotannins and flavonoids in Rosa centifolia petals inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme activity and suppress NF-κB signaling, reducing downstream production of [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s such as IL-6 and TNF-α. Quercetin and kaempferol also scavenge [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (ROS) by donating hydrogen atoms to free radicals, protecting cellular membranes from oxidative damage. Additionally, tannins form reversible protein complexes on mucosal surfaces, producing an astringent effect that reduces tissue permeability and mild local inflammation.

## Clinical Summary

Human clinical evidence for Rosa centifolia is absent; the European Medicines Agency (EMA) classifies its oral and topical uses under 'traditional use' based on over 30 years of documented medicinal history rather than randomized controlled trials. [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity has been demonstrated in rodent models, where petal extracts reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema, but these findings have not been translated into human dose-response studies. No published RCTs, cohort studies, or controlled human trials with quantified outcomes currently exist for this ingredient. The evidentiary standard therefore remains preclinical and ethnobotanical, which limits confidence in efficacy claims for specific indications or dosages.

## Nutritional Profile

Rosa centifolia (cabbage rose/hundred-petaled rose) is used primarily as a medicinal/aromatic botanical rather than a food ingredient, so conventional macronutrient profiling is limited. Key documented constituents include: Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, rutin) at approximately 1–3% dry weight of petals — these are the primary bioactive compounds linked to [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity. Polyphenols/tannins (gallotannins, ellagitannins) estimated at 2–5% dry weight, contributing to astringent properties relevant to oral and skin mucosa applications. Anthocyanins (cyanidin-3,5-diglucoside, pelargonidin derivatives) present at approximately 0.1–0.5% dry weight, responsible for pigmentation and contributing to [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity. Volatile essential oil fraction (rose otto): 0.01–0.04% of fresh petal weight, dominated by citronellol (18–45%), geraniol (5–18%), nerol, and phenylethyl alcohol — responsible for aromatic and potential anti-inflammatory properties. Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is present in rose petals generally at 10–50 mg/100g fresh weight, though concentration in Rosa centifolia specifically is lower than Rosa canina hips. Carotenoids (beta-carotene, lycopene precursors) are present in trace amounts in petals (<0.1 mg/100g). Fiber content in dried petal material is approximately 15–25% dry weight (mixed soluble/insoluble), though dietary intake is negligible given typical usage doses. Protein content is low, approximately 5–8% dry weight. Bioavailability note: Flavonoid glycosides (rutin, quercetin-glucosides) require intestinal hydrolysis before absorption; bioavailability is estimated at 20–50% depending on [gut microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) composition. Tannins may reduce absorption of co-administered minerals (iron, zinc) through chelation. Volatile compounds are absorbed transdermally and via inhalation at low but pharmacologically relevant levels. Most documented use involves topical preparations (rosewater, poultices) or dilute oral rinses, where systemic nutritional contribution is negligible; bioactive effects are primarily local/topical.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available from human trials. The EMA monograph references herbal tea or infusion/decoction/macerate preparations but does not specify standardized dosing protocols. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Rosa centifolia is generally considered well-tolerated at traditional oral and topical doses, with no serious adverse events documented in the EMA monograph review period. High tannin intake may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea or constipation, particularly at elevated doses or in sensitive individuals. Due to tannin content, concurrent use with iron supplements or medications requiring optimal oral absorption (e.g., certain antibiotics, [thyroid](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) hormones) is theoretically problematic, as tannins can chelate metal ions and bind drug molecules. Safety in pregnancy, lactation, and pediatric populations has not been established through clinical study, and use in these groups should follow healthcare provider guidance.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier contains no human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses with PMIDs. The EMA's Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products has classified Rosa centifolia as a traditional herbal medicinal product based solely on long-standing use rather than modern clinical evidence, requiring documented safe use for at least 30 years including 15 years within the EU.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Rosa centifolia has been used in traditional medicine systems for at least 30 years with documented use in the EU for at least 15 years, qualifying it for EMA traditional use classification. The French Pharmacopoeia includes monographs on Rosa centifolia (Rose pâle) dating to 1989, and the plant is noted in Ayurvedic botanical traditions.

## Synergistic Combinations

Rosa damascena, Rosa gallica, Chamomile, Calendula, Marshmallow root

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is Rosa centifolia used for in supplements?

Rosa centifolia is traditionally used to soothe mild inflammation of the oral mucosa and throat, and to calm minor skin irritation. The EMA recognizes these applications under its traditional herbal medicinal product framework, meaning the evidence is based on historical use documentation rather than clinical trials. Its flavonoids and tannins are considered the primary active constituents responsible for these effects.

### Is there clinical trial evidence for Rosa centifolia?

No published randomized controlled trials or formal human clinical studies currently exist for Rosa centifolia. Evidence supporting its use comes from over 30 years of documented traditional use in European herbal medicine and from preclinical animal studies showing reduced carrageenan-induced inflammation in rodent models. Consumers should be aware that this represents a low level of clinical evidence by modern pharmacological standards.

### What are the active compounds in Rosa centifolia?

The key bioactive compounds in Rosa centifolia petals include flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol, polyphenolic tannins including gallotannins, and aromatic constituents like geraniol and citronellol in the essential oil fraction. Quercetin and kaempferol are primarily responsible for antioxidant and COX-inhibiting activity, while gallotannins contribute astringent and antimicrobial properties on mucosal surfaces.

### Can Rosa centifolia interact with medications?

Rosa centifolia's tannin content may reduce the oral absorption of iron supplements, certain tetracycline antibiotics, and levothyroxine by forming insoluble complexes in the gastrointestinal tract, so these should be taken at least two hours apart. No well-documented pharmacokinetic drug interaction studies exist specifically for Rosa centifolia extracts in humans. Patients on anticoagulant therapy should exercise caution given the flavonoid content, as high-dose quercetin has shown mild platelet-inhibiting properties in in vitro studies.

### Is Rosa centifolia safe during pregnancy?

The safety of Rosa centifolia during pregnancy and lactation has not been established in clinical studies, and the EMA monograph does not include a recommendation for use in these populations due to insufficient data. Topical use at low concentrations in cosmetics is generally considered low-risk, but oral supplementation during pregnancy should be avoided unless directed by a qualified healthcare professional. As with most traditional herbal ingredients lacking reproductive toxicology data, a precautionary approach is recommended.

### What is the difference between Rosa centifolia extract and rose hip (Rosa canina) supplements?

Rosa centifolia and Rosa canina are distinct species with different traditional uses and chemical profiles. While Rosa centifolia is traditionally used for mild oral and skin inflammation, Rosa canina is commonly used for joint health and vitamin C content. The two should not be considered interchangeable, as their active compound concentrations and historical applications differ significantly.

### What evidence level supports Rosa centifolia's traditional uses?

Rosa centifolia carries an EMA Traditional Use Classification for oral and throat inflammation based on at least 30 years of documented use, but no clinical trials in humans are currently available. Animal studies have shown anti-inflammatory effects at doses of 64–128 mg/kg, but these preclinical results cannot be directly translated to human supplementation. The classification reflects traditional knowledge rather than RCT evidence.

### Who should avoid Rosa centifolia supplements?

While generally recognized as safe for traditional use, individuals with known allergies to Rosaceae family plants should exercise caution with Rosa centifolia. Those taking anti-inflammatory medications or blood thinners should consult a healthcare provider before use, as potential synergistic effects have not been adequately studied in humans. Pregnant and nursing women should seek medical guidance before supplementation.

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