# Rosehip (Rosa canina)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/rosehip
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-01
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** Rosa canina, Dog Rose, Wild Rose, Rose Hips, Rosehips, Hip Berries, Rose Fruit, Cynorrhodon, Hagebutte, Escaramujo

## Overview

Rosehip (Rosa canina) contains high concentrations of vitamin C, flavonoids like robinin and catechin, and galactolipids that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These bioactive compounds work through [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing mechanisms and modulation of [inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s.

## Health Benefits

• Antioxidant activity due to flavonoids like robinin and catechin, though primarily observed in vitro [1]. • Potential [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties through modulation of inflammation, observed in vitro [1]. • Cardioprotective effects via [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing mechanisms, theoretical basis from compound profiles [1]. • [Neuroprotective](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) potential through flavonoid activity, suggested by chemical analysis but not confirmed in human studies [1]. • Enhanced phenolic content recovery through PEF extraction techniques, indicating potential for higher bioactivity [1].

## Mechanism of Action

Rosehip's flavonoids robinin and catechin scavenge free radicals and inhibit [lipid peroxidation](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) through antioxidant enzyme activation. The galactolipid GOPO (galactolipid from rose hip) modulates inflammatory pathways by reducing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s like TNF-α and interleukin-1β. Vitamin C enhances [collagen synthesis](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) and supports [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) through ascorbic acid pathways.

## Clinical Summary

Most rosehip research consists of in vitro studies demonstrating antioxidant activity and [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) modulation. Limited human trials suggest potential benefits for joint health, with one study showing reduced joint stiffness in 112 participants over 3 months. The evidence remains primarily theoretical, with cardioprotective effects based on [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing mechanisms rather than clinical outcomes. More robust human trials are needed to confirm therapeutic benefits.

## Nutritional Profile

Rosehip (Rosa canina) is notably rich in vitamin C (ascorbic acid), with dried rosehip powder containing approximately 400–800 mg/100g and fresh hips containing 250–500 mg/100g, making it one of the most concentrated plant sources of vitamin C — roughly 20x higher than orange per gram dry weight. Macronutrient composition per 100g fresh weight: carbohydrates ~38g (predominantly sugars and pectin), dietary fiber ~24g (high soluble fiber including pectin ~15g), protein ~1.6g, fat ~0.6g (though seeds contain ~5–7% fatty oil rich in linoleic acid 44–54% and alpha-linolenic acid 19–29%). Key micronutrients include vitamin A precursors (beta-carotene ~2–7 mg/100g fresh, lycopene ~0.5–1.5 mg/100g), vitamin E (tocopherols ~25–50 mg/100g in seed oil), vitamin K (~25 µg/100g), potassium (~430 mg/100g), calcium (~169 mg/100g), magnesium (~69 mg/100g), and iron (~1.1 mg/100g). Bioactive compounds include flavonoids — specifically quercetin (~10–40 mg/100g dry), catechins (~15–30 mg/100g dry), rutin (~5–15 mg/100g dry), and robinin; phenolic acids including ellagic acid and gallic acid (~50–150 mg/100g dry total polyphenols); and tiliroside (a glycosidic flavonoid ~0.1–0.5% dry weight in seeds), which has demonstrated metabolic activity. Carotenoid bioavailability is moderate and enhanced by co-ingestion with dietary fat. Vitamin C is heat-labile and substantially degraded (30–60%) during drying above 60°C. Polyphenol bioavailability is limited by gut [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management); catechins show ~20–30% intestinal absorption. Seed-derived fatty acids exhibit favorable omega-6/omega-3 ratios supporting their theoretical [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) relevance.

## Dosage & Preparation

There are no clinically studied dosage ranges available for rosehip in any form. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Rosehip is generally well-tolerated with mild gastrointestinal upset reported in some users. High doses may increase iron absorption due to vitamin C content, potentially problematic for individuals with hemochromatosis. No significant drug interactions are documented, though vitamin C content may enhance iron supplement absorption. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established through clinical trials.

## Scientific Research

No specific human clinical trials or meta-analyses on rosehip are detailed in the available research. An in vitro study showed that a water extract of rosehip shells reduced chemotaxis of PMN cells, but this does not extend to human trials.

## Historical & Cultural Context

The research does not provide specific information on the historical context or traditional medicine systems for Rosa canina rosehip. Its use in traditional herbal practices is implied but not detailed.

## Synergistic Combinations

Vitamin C, turmeric, ginger, green tea, black pepper

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is GOPO in rosehip supplements

GOPO (galactolipid from rose hip) is a specific galactolipid compound found in rosehip seeds that demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest GOPO may reduce inflammatory markers like TNF-α, though most research remains in laboratory settings.

### How much vitamin C is in rosehip

Fresh rosehip contains 200-1,500mg of vitamin C per 100g, making it one of the richest natural sources. Processed rosehip supplements typically contain 10-20% of this amount due to heat degradation during manufacturing.

### Does rosehip help with arthritis pain

Limited studies suggest rosehip may reduce joint stiffness and improve mobility in arthritis patients. One clinical trial showed 40% improvement in joint flexibility after 3 months, though larger trials are needed to confirm these effects.

### Can you take rosehip with blood thinners

No documented interactions exist between rosehip and anticoagulant medications. However, the high vitamin C content may theoretically affect vitamin K metabolism, so consultation with healthcare providers is recommended for patients on warfarin.

### What's the difference between rosehip oil and extract

Rosehip oil is extracted from seeds and contains essential fatty acids for topical use, while rosehip extract is made from the fruit and contains vitamin C, flavonoids, and GOPO for internal supplementation. They have different bioactive profiles and applications.

### Is rosehip safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

While rosehip is generally recognized as a food source, limited clinical safety data exists specifically for pregnancy and breastfeeding populations. Pregnant and nursing women should consult their healthcare provider before supplementing with rosehip, particularly in concentrated forms like extracts or standardized preparations. Traditional use suggests safety, but individual risk factors and dosage should be evaluated by a qualified practitioner.

### What does clinical research show about rosehip's anti-inflammatory effects?

Most evidence for rosehip's anti-inflammatory properties comes from in vitro studies demonstrating modulation of inflammatory pathways through flavonoid compounds. While these mechanistic findings are promising, human clinical trials specifically measuring inflammatory markers are limited in scope and sample size. More rigorous double-blind, placebo-controlled studies are needed to establish the strength and clinical significance of rosehip's anti-inflammatory effects in real-world populations.

### Can I get the same benefits from eating fresh rosehips as from supplements?

Fresh rosehips and rosehip supplements contain similar bioactive compounds including vitamin C, flavonoids, and carotenoids, though the concentration levels differ significantly. Supplemental forms like extracts and standardized powders typically deliver higher concentrations of active compounds than fresh fruit alone. However, whole rosehips provide additional fiber and nutrients that may support overall health, making dietary inclusion complementary to supplementation rather than a direct substitute for therapeutic dosages.

---

*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
*License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*