What is rose hip?
Rose hip, sometimes known as dog rose, is native to Europe, Africa and Asia. The active ingredient is taken from the red fruit that ripens after the flower dies. Rose hip extract contains polyphenols and anthocyanins which are thought to relieve joint inflammation and reduce joint damage. Rose hip is also rich in vitamin C which has antioxidant properties.
What is rose hip good for?
Evidence suggests that rose hip may be a cheap and effective way of relieving the symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
A study published in the medical journal Osteoarthritis and Cartilage looked at the effects of a powder made from a wild variety of rose hip called Rosa Canina. Over a period of 3 months 300 patients were given different pain-relieving medications - results found that rose hip was 300% more effective than standard paracetamol at relieving pain and 40% more effective than glucosamine.
Research from Germany and Denmark looked at 74 sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis over a 6 month period, just under half took a rose hip remedy while the others took a placebo. The first group reported a fall of 40% in the number of joints causing pain or discomfort while there was no change in the group taking the placebo.
A healthy balanced diet is the best way to consume all the nutrients we need. Sometimes however this isn't possible and then supplements can help. This article isn't intended to replace medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before trying any supplements or herbal medicines.