Rosehip: A Wild Rose With Great Benefits

Rosehip is a wild rose that has different uses. It’s native to Europe, although it’s now found on most continents. Its pale pink flowers enchant and it has benefits that are very well used in both cosmetics and gastronomy.

Rosehip has two scientific names: Rosa eglantería and Rosa rubiginosa. This plant is a thorny shrub with long, flexible stems. It reaches up to two meters in height and blooms once a year, (depending on the climate) this will be in summer or spring.

Its flowers have a delicious smell that resembles the apple and in autumn it produces orange or red fruits. When summer comes, it loses its leaves.

What’s rosehip used for?

Rosehip is grown for various purposes. Among them is ornamental use, that is, decorative. Its beauty means that it’s grown in many gardens alongside being used in cosmetics and gastronomy. Next, we’re going to delve into its properties and uses.

In the garden

As a shrub, rosehip requires care to keep it tidy and beautiful. Of course, it stands out because it’s easier to maintain than traditional roses.

Its flowers are very different from roses, but they still have their charm. It’ll be useful to learn about its culinary and cosmetic uses since you can have access to this shrub from your garden.

Rosehip in cosmetics

You’ve surely heard about rosehip and its use in cosmetic creams? Studies have shown that it has phenolic components, fatty acids, linoleic acid, antioxidants, and pigments that help to care for the skin.

It’s noted that linoleic and linolenic acids contribute to the rapid regeneration of skin tissues. In addition to being used in the form of a cream, rosehip oil is also used.

This product can moisturize, remove blemishes on the skin and reduce scars and stretch marks. You can apply a couple of drops to your facial night cream, hand cream, or body cream.

It’s also used in gastronomy

Studies also indicate that this plant has micronutrients such as vitamin C, which makes it a functional food. Alongside these properties, we also have its concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Moreover, rosehip is one of the flowers that’s classified as edible. In fact, it’s used in the preparation of jams, infusions, and liqueurs.

How is rosehip grown?

Rosehip is easy to grow. Although, like any plant, it requires certain care. Read on to learn how to grow it at home and enjoy its benefits and uses.

Sowing and irrigation

Being a shrub, rosehip requires fertile, humid, and well-drained soil–although it’s resistant to poor soils and some drought.

Therefore, it’s convenient that you provide it with a good substrate and ample sunlight. If you want it to stand out for having vibrant rosehip flowers, apply organic fertilizer when winter ends or spring begins.

Pruning and multiplication

Pruning this plant is important, in order to shape it so that it doesn’t get out of control. The best pruning occurs after flowering or at the end of winter. The idea is to balance old and new branches, so prune lightly, but regularly.

Pests and diseases

Like most garden plants, rosehips are susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Similarly, it can be attacked by caterpillars.

However, it’s commonly affected by diseases such as rust and powdery mildew. To combat them, use antifungal products and sprays regularly. Although always remember to use organic products.

Do you like rosehip? Grow it at home!

Rosehip is both a beautiful and beneficial plant. Growing it at home will not only allow you to have a beautiful garden, but it’ll provide you with incredible health benefits.

Include a couple of flowers in your salads or make an infusion. In addition to tasting good, its components will help to strengthen your immune system whilst you enjoy its anti-aging effect.