Rose Hips

Rosa rogusa rosehip (fruit of the Rose)

Rose hips are the fruiting body of the rose. You can harvest rosehips from just about any rose, but hips from Rosa rogusa tend to be the most flavorful and possibly the largest variety. After pollination in the spring or early summer, the rosehip begins to form, the petals fall and what is left on the stem continues to grow and is ready to be harvested after the first frost. It is said that waiting until the first frost to harvest ensures a sweeter fruit. The fruit is where the achene (seeds) is formed, otherwise known as the hypanthium (or floral tube; the bright red portion). The seeds within the floral tube have tiny hairs that you most definitely do not want to include in your preparation. They are irritants and known to be used in "itching powder", so be sure to steer clear of ingesting. The outer most red portion of the rose hip is generally what is used in jellies, syrups, soups, oils and teas.

Dried Rose hips (outter portion of the fruit)

Rose hips have a long history of being used as medicine. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, they have been known to be used when other fruits like citrus, were in low supply often brewed into a syrup and taken as a tonic. Rose hips are a tremendous ally for our immune system. Rose hip syrup is often given for colds, coughs, sore throats and other common illnesses."Nearly 200% of the recommended daily value is found in just 1 ounce of wild rose hips; they are also a good source of vitamin A, manganese, calcium, and magnesium (Nutrition Data, n.d.)."(https://herbarium.theherbalacademy.com/monograph/rose/)

Rose hip oil is wonderful for the skin often employed in skin care products. Full of phenols, fatty acids, and vitamins, these little powerful fruits aid in all kinds of skin conditions from eczema to reducing the appearance of scars evening out texture and tone. It can do the same for your hair. Moisturizing and nurishing for both hair and skin.

As for Rose hips metaphysical properties, like the rose itself, this herb is ruled by the planet Venus and the element of water. Use in baths to to ease tension, bring in love and companionship and an overall sense of peace.

I have a lovely little recipe for a Rose Hip Syrup below. This simple syrup can be used to sweeten tea, taken as a tonic when ill or even used in mixed drinks and mocktails.

Rose Hip Syrup

Rose Hip Syrup Recipe

What you will need:

Medium size saucepan

Quart size jar

Canning funnel

Fork or potato masher

Fine mesh sieve

Cheese Cloth

Ingredients:

1 cup dried rosehips pieces, not whole (or 2 cups fresh)

4 cups water

1.5 - 2 cups of honey (the more honey the longer it is shelf stable)

1. Add rosehips and water to the saucepan over med/high heat until boiling.

2. Bring to a simmer uncovered for about 15 to 20 min or until liquid is reduced to half.

3. Let it cool slightly. Once cooled a bit, mash with a fork or potato smasher to get the most out of the rosehips.

4. When cooled to the touch, layer the cheese cloth so there are 3 to 4 layers into the mesh streive, and pour mixture into the seive.

5. Squeeze any remaining liquid through the cheese cloth into the jar. If you are using whole, fresh rosehips strain the liquid a few times to get as many of the little hairs in the rosehips out (the hairs can irritate the throat).

6. Lastly, add the honey while still warm.

7. Let cool to room tempurature and store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

I have used Rose Hip Syrup to sweeten Cranberry Margaritas. So good!! I hope you enjoy!

Please leave a comment if you have made this recipe and what you have used it for.