Rosehip tea has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples in America, Scandinavia, Northern Europe, North Africa, and Central and Western Asia. Native American tribes have used rosehip tea to treat respiratory ailments.
It contains no caffeine and is very rich in vitamin C (60 times more than an orange). Rosehips contain vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, E, K, P, organic antioxidant bioflavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids, lycopene, rutin, potassium, calcium, iron, and pectin.
Rosehip tea is recommended by alternative medicine practitioners for alleviating symptoms of cold, flu, nervous stress, nausea, headaches, menstrual cramps, kidney infections, urinary bladder infections, diarrhea, and dizziness. The pectin in the tea binds to intestinal fats before they are absorbed into the bloodstream, thus alleviating constipation and lowering cholesterol. Antioxidants and bioflavonoids enhance circulation and stimulate the body’s immune system by attacking free radicals.
To soothe tired eyes, soak two cotton pads in cold, concentrated tea. Place them over your closed eyes.
Rosehip tea has also been administered to horses to support their adrenal health, kidneys, digestion, and hooves.
Rosehip tea is always prepared by infusion. Boiling destroys the vitamin C content. Boil water first, then add two tablespoons to a cup of tea and let it steep covered for 10 minutes to enjoy all the beneficial vitamins and minerals!
According to a study, rosehip extract reduced the growth and migration of breast cancer cells. In the study, the highest concentrations of rosehip extract reduced the migration of breast cancer cells by up to 45%. It inhibits the growth of brain cancer, a place where breast cancer cells tend to spread.
Another study focuses on the phytochemical compounds present in rosehip tea. The polyphenols found in the fruit inhibit the proliferation of human cancer cells.
According to a Spanish study, rosehips could be active components in functional diets that may help prevent colorectal cancer. The fruits have an anti-inflammatory action, contributing to their anti-cancer properties. They contain certain bioactive compounds, such as phenols, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), beta-carotene, tannins, and pectins, all contributing to stopping oxidative stress, which can otherwise lead to cancer. Although rosehip tea is a beneficial beverage, those undergoing medical treatments should exercise special caution.
Regular consumption of rosehip tea lowers cholesterol levels.
A major benefit of vitamin C is collagen production. Collagen is a protein that forms connective tissue in the body. Additionally, vitamin C treats inflammation and improves immunity. It prevents scurvy, a disease that causes muscle weakness, joint pain, skin rashes, and tooth loss. It also helps maintain the health of blood vessels.
Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron better. Iron has several benefits, the most important being the prevention of anemia and maintaining healthy blood.
In a study conducted by the Department of Experimental Medical Sciences in Sweden, it was found that rosehip intake significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The flavonoids and antioxidants in rosehips protect against heart diseases, also helping to lower blood pressure.
