The use of medicinal plants has been an ancient practice with great benefits to the health of living beings. One of these plants is the rosehip, with healthy therapeutic properties that are lost sight of.
In this article, we will explain what rosehip is and what its health benefits are.
What is the rosehip?
The rosehip is a wild shrub native to Eastern Europe, but is currently widespread in America, Asia and North Africa.
An oil called “pure rosehip oil” is extracted from this shrub, or simply “rosehip oil” , which is pink in color and is obtained from the seeds of the rosa rubiginosa or rosa eglanteria , a flower belonging to this plant.
Note: Another product from this plant is the rosehip infusion that is made by mixing both the fruits, flowers and seeds of the rosehip plant.
What is the rosehip used for?
This plant is recognized for its wonderful beneficial properties for health, so here we present the different uses of rosehip , especially for the skin:
1. Delays cell oxidation
The first benefit for skin health is that it delays and stops the oxidative damage caused by free radicals on healthy skin cells.
To highlight: This is achieved thanks to the high content of antioxidant compounds in rosehip, such as vitamin C among many others, which have this property of fighting free radicals.
2. Stimulates skin regeneration
Another of the properties of the rosehip, especially its oil, is that it improves the recovery of scars from wounds and skin conditions .
In this sense, the content of vitamin C and vitamin A, both with antioxidant properties, stimulate cell regeneration . Also vitamin A is considered a chemical compound that prevents the appearance of acne and stretch marks .
You should know: Both vitamins, in addition to the fatty acids contained in rosehip oil, prevent aging and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier, as well as maintaining its hydration.
3. Strengthens hair
For hair , the use of rosehip oil favors the renewal and repair of both hair and scalp , thanks to the presence of vitamins, antioxidant compounds and essential fatty acids that promote good oxygenation and nutrition.
Note: Some studies show the ability of rosehip to improve blood circulation and nutrition .
4. Promotes blood circulation
One of the most important factors for overall skin health is maintaining adequate blood flow to skin cells.
This is possible thanks to the fact that rosehip and the action of its antioxidants keeps the walls of veins and arteries free of layers of fat (atheromas), facilitating proper oxygenation and nutrition of skin cells.
5. Decreases fluid retention
It has been described that rosehip oil has vasodilator properties , which promote good fluid circulation through the skin.
To highlight: This vasodilator property also favors the circulation of water between the cells , somewhat decreasing fluid retention , also eliminating the feeling of heaviness in the lower extremities.
6. Improves digestion
Literature has described that rosehip infusion favors the digestive process, combating heaviness and heartburn. This drink has a mild laxative effect, which accelerates slow digestion, normalizing intestinal transit.
You should know: The infusion has been used historically by traditional medicine, as a way to increase defenses and improve the immune system .
7. Fight colds and flu
Thanks to its vitamin C content, rosehip ingested in infusions can help prevent common respiratory diseases such as colds and flu, since it decreases their residence time in the body.
What does the rosehip contain?
Science has described that the rosehip plant contains, both in its flowers and in its seed, interesting chemical compounds that favor human health and which we mention below:
1. Vitamins and minerals
Among the vitamins that stand out in rosehip are vitamin C ( ascorbic acid ) and vitamin A ( tocopherol ), as well as B complex vitamins such as vitamin B1 , vitamin B2, vitamin B3 , vitamin B5 , vitamin B6 and the presence of vitamin K.
On the other hand, among the minerals present in this plant are silicon, aluminum, phosphorus , potassium , calcium , magnesium , sodium , iron , copper, manganese, zinc and boron.
Note: The concentrations of vitamins and minerals in the plant will depend on its growing area .
2. Other compounds
Other components that accompany vitamins and minerals are polyunsaturated fatty acids. Some authors describe the presence of omega 3, 6 and 9, including linoleic , lauric, myristic, and palmitic acids, among others.
How is the rosehip used?
The traditional way of using the rosehip is through its oil and the preparation of infusions. The oil is extracted through the cold pressing method, the result of which is used on the skin in a few drops and placed through a light massage.
To highlight: The infusions are prepared with the seeds, flowers and fruits of the plant , taking small sips during the day or you can also accompany it with your favorite dessert thanks to its fruity flavor.
Key Findings
- The rosehip is a wild shrub, which contains a large amount of antioxidant compounds.
- The chemical components of the rosehip slow down the aging of the skin and stimulate its regeneration.
- The antioxidants in rosehip help prevent some types of cancer.
- Rosehip boosts the immune system and strengthens the digestive system.
- The traditional way of using the rosehip is through its oil and the preparation of infusions.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.