If you often feel unwell or lack vitamins in spring — brew rosehip more often. Together with lemons and garlic, it is among the most popular folk remedies "for everything in the world."
Rosehip truly boasts an impressive multivitamin composition, reports Doctorpiter. Its fruits, for example, contain
* B vitamins, as well as vitamins A, C, P, and K,
* iron,
* magnesium,
* calcium,
* potassium,
* sodium,
* zinc,
* natural antioxidants: flavonoids, carotenoids, tannins.
Doctors have identified 8 of the most beneficial properties of rosehip
Alexandra Yakovleva, gastroenterologist, therapist
1. Strengthens the immune system
Rosehip is one of the leaders in vitamin C content — its concentration is several dozen times higher than that in lemons. Because of this, the fruits effectively aid in the treatment of colds and respiratory viral infections by suppressing the activity of viruses and bacteria.
Inhalations with rosehip oil and berry decoction ease symptoms of cough and nasal congestion. Drinks based on rosehip are beneficial for general immune system support, especially during cold season.
2. Supports heart health and cleanses blood vessels
Regular consumption of rosehip decoction helps lower blood cholesterol levels and cleanse blood vessels. Magnesium and iron strengthen the heart muscle and normalize blood circulation.
3. Lowers blood pressure
Rosehip infusion is used as an additional means of preventing hypertension. Rosehip fruits have a natural diuretic effect, helping to eliminate excess fluid from the body, which reduces the volume of circulating blood and lowers pressure on blood vessel walls.
4. Protects against anemia
Due to its iron content, rosehip is suitable for the treatment and prevention of iron deficiency anemia. Rosehip infusion helps increase hemoglobin levels in the blood. Therefore, this product is especially beneficial for pregnant women, who often face iron deficiency and anemia.
5. Contributes to maintaining youth and beauty
Rosehip oil is popular among cosmetologists and cosmetics manufacturers. One of its main advantages is versatility. It is suitable for all skin types: dry, oily, sensitive.
The combination of natural antioxidants and vitamin C protects skin cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Fatty acids found in rosehip restore the skin's lipid balance, intensely moisturize, and prevent inflammation.
Vitamins C and A improve complexion and combat pigmentation.
Vitamin E has anti-inflammatory properties, making rosehip oil useful for acne and rosacea.
Rosehip oil regulates the activity of sebaceous glands, reducing sebum production and eliminating oily shine.
6. Eases symptoms of toxicosis
Rosehip is a real treasure for pregnant women, as it helps alleviate symptoms of toxicosis. It can also reduce swelling that occurs during this challenging period.
7. Reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
Rosehip is especially beneficial for those suffering from excess weight and high blood pressure. The fruits have a low glycemic index, improve overall body condition, normalize insulin levels, and prevent spikes in blood glucose.
8. Eases the condition of joint pain sufferers
Rosehip fruits contain a vitamin-mineral complex that helps reduce inflammation. Replenishing the deficiency of beneficial substances lowers the risk of developing osteoarthritis and arthritis.
How to Maximize Benefits
According to gastroenterologist Alexandra Yakovleva, the method of consuming rosehip depends on the goals set.
For the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, it is better to use a decoction of rosehip berries. It can be obtained by simply pouring boiling water over the fruits and letting it steep for a couple of hours.
Oil is suitable for external use. It can also be used for inhalations during colds.
If the main goal is to strengthen the immune system and for "vitaminization," it is better to choose cold-pressed oil or dietary supplements based on dried fruits. They are not subjected to heat treatment, which helps preserve a higher concentration of vitamins and other beneficial substances.
Who Should Avoid Rosehip
Alexandra Yakovleva reminds that rosehip should not be overused, and in some cases, it should be excluded for people suffering from
* chronic gastrointestinal diseases — gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, pancreatitis. The high vitamin C content in the fruits can provoke exacerbation of these diseases;
* a tendency to form blood clots and thrombophlebitis. The fact is that rosehip can increase blood clotting;
* hypotension — low blood pressure. For such individuals, rosehip decoction is contraindicated, as it can worsen their condition.
* weak tooth enamel. Due to the high concentration of vitamin C, regular consumption of rosehip-based drinks can cause additional harm. Therefore, in this case, it is better to drink decoctions carefully — for example, through a straw.
