Dog Rose (Rosa canina)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rosaceae
• Common Names: Dog Rose, Wild Rose, Briar Rose
• Parts Used: Hips (fruit), Flowers, Leaves

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Description

Rosa canina, commonly known as Dog Rose, is a deciduous shrub found throughout Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. It produces small pink or white flowers in summer, followed by bright red rose hips in autumn, which are rich in vitamin C and have been traditionally used for immune support, digestive health, and skin care.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European folk medicine as a vitamin C-rich remedy for colds and flu.
• Traditionally employed as a gentle astringent for diarrhea and digestive discomfort.
• Applied topically for wound healing, skin irritation, and inflammation.
• Used as a mild tonic for kidney and urinary tract health.

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Constituents

• Vitamin C
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Pectins
• Essential fatty acids
• Carotenoids (lycopene, beta-carotene)

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Actions

• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Immunomodulatory
• Astringent
• Diuretic
• Mild laxative

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Medicinal Uses

1. Immune Support:
Rose hips are one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C, helping to strengthen the immune system and combat colds and flu.

2. Digestive Health:
Mildly astringent, making it useful for diarrhea, indigestion, and mild gastric inflammation.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits:
Traditionally used to reduce joint inflammation and improve skin health due to its high antioxidant content.

4. Skin and Wound Healing:
Rose hip oil is commonly used for scars, burns, and skin regeneration.

5. Urinary Tract Support:
Mild diuretic properties may help flush out toxins and support kidney function.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Rose Hips):

• 1-2 tsp of dried hips per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Decoction:

• Simmer 1 tbsp of crushed hips in water for 20 minutes for a stronger extract.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Rose Hip Oil (Topical Use):

• Apply directly to scars, wrinkles, and skin irritations.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be sensitive to rose hips.
• Excess Vitamin C Intake: High doses may cause mild stomach discomfort.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Safe in moderate amounts, but consult a healthcare provider before high-dose use.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and nourishing; supports immune and skin health.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Strengthens Qi and Blood, mildly astringent.
• Ayurveda: Balances Pitta and Vata, but may increase Kapha in excess.

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Combinations

• For Immune Support: Combine with elderberry and echinacea.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with chamomile and fennel.
• For Skin Health: Combine with calendula and sea buckthorn.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Rose hips are collected in autumn when fully ripe and dried for medicinal use.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried hips and oil in airtight containers away from heat and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Rosa canina’s high antioxidant content, immune-boosting effects, and anti-inflammatory properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Dog Rose remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for immune support, skin health, and inflammation relief.