Scientific Name: Rosa
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Rose hips (Rosa) are native to Europe, western Asia, and northwest Africa. Roses are in the same plant family (Rosaceae) as apples and pears. Rose hips are the round portion of the rose flowers that are found below the flower. The fruits are crushed and often used for brewing a mild tea. Rose hips were historically eaten as a source of vitamin C.
Rose hips have a high content of vitamin C (426.00 mg per 100 g) that provides 710% of one's daily value (DV). Vitamin C is important for the immune system, as well as contributes to the production of collagen. The vitamin A content in rose hips (87% DV) is essential for healthy eyes. Vitamin E (29% DV) contributes to the protection of your cells from the damaging effects of free radicals. Vitamin K (32% DV) is essential for blood clotting and plays a key role in bone health.
Rose hips contain minerals with many health benefits, especially manganese (51% DV). Manganese contributes to protecting the cells from damage and is important for healthy bone, connective tissue, and metabolism. The high amount of dietary fiber (96% DV) in the fruits helps with constipation, and may be important for heart health and weight management. Fresh rose hips are sometimes used to prepare jams or jellies. Like other fruits, rose hips can also be eaten raw.