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Organic Rose Hip Extract

Also known as: Rosehip, rose hip, rose haw, dog rose fruit, Rosa rugosa, Rosa canina

Overview

Rosehip extract is a botanical supplement derived from the fruit (pseudo-fruit) of wild rose plants, primarily *Rosa canina*. It is rich in bioactive compounds including vitamin C, polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, and fatty acids, which contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally, it has been used for joint health, anti-inflammatory effects, cardiovascular support, and skin health. Available in various forms such as powders, capsules, and extracts, rosehip extract has garnered moderate research attention, with multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews supporting its efficacy, particularly in managing osteoarthritis and improving metabolic parameters. The quality of evidence is generally high for these applications, though heterogeneity in preparations and dosages exists across studies.

Benefits

Rosehip extract offers several evidence-based benefits. Its primary effect is on osteoarthritis, where meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) show it significantly reduces pain and improves function, with a moderate effect size and doubling the likelihood of response compared to placebo over approximately three months. This makes it a clinically meaningful intervention for adults with osteoarthritis. Secondly, it demonstrates significant metabolic benefits; systematic reviews report reductions in fasting blood glucose (-20.4%), HbA1c (-13.5%), LDL cholesterol, and other cardiovascular risk markers. Some studies also indicate reductions in abdominal fat (-10.4%), body weight (-2%), and systolic blood pressure (-3.4%), making it beneficial for individuals with metabolic syndrome or cardiovascular risk factors. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, attributed to its rich content of polyphenols and vitamin C, also contribute to general oxidative stress reduction and potential skin health benefits. Benefits typically manifest after 3 weeks to 3 months of consistent daily supplementation.

How it works

Rosehip extract exerts its therapeutic effects primarily through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms. It inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines and the NF-κB pathway, thereby reducing inflammation. Its rich content of polyphenols and vitamin C provides potent antioxidant activity, combating oxidative stress. These actions collectively modulate various body systems: in the musculoskeletal system, it helps protect joint cartilage; in the cardiovascular system, it modulates lipid metabolism and blood pressure; and in the metabolic system, it aids in glucose control. The bioavailability of its bioactive compounds can vary by preparation, with fermented aqueous extracts potentially offering higher absorption and efficacy compared to standard powders.

Side effects

Rosehip extract is generally well-tolerated and considered safe, with a good safety profile observed in clinical trials. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal discomfort, reported in less than 5% of individuals. Allergic reactions are rare. While no major drug interactions have been reported, caution is advised for individuals taking anticoagulants due to the potential for mild antiplatelet effects. Contraindications include a known allergy to rose plants or related species. Data on its safety during pregnancy and lactation are limited, so caution is advised for these special populations. Long-term safety data beyond three months are also limited, though short-term use up to this duration appears safe.

Dosage

For osteoarthritis, the minimum effective dose of rosehip powder is approximately 2.5 grams per day. The optimal dosage range is typically 2.5 to 5 grams per day of powdered extract or an equivalent standardized extract. This daily dose can be taken with or without food. While doses up to 5 grams per day have been shown to be safe in trials lasting up to three months, long-term safety data beyond this period are limited. The form of the extract can influence efficacy; powdered extracts standardized for polyphenol content are preferred for consistency, and fermented aqueous extracts may offer enhanced bioavailability compared to whole fruit powders. No specific cofactors are required for its absorption or efficacy.

FAQs

Is rosehip extract effective for joint pain?

Yes, moderate evidence from clinical trials supports that rosehip extract can reduce pain and improve function in individuals with osteoarthritis, with benefits typically observed after 3 months of use.

Can it lower blood sugar?

Some research suggests that rosehip extract can significantly reduce fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels, with effects comparable to some pharmaceutical agents in certain studies.

Is it safe long term?

Short-term use of rosehip extract, up to 3 months, is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. However, long-term safety data beyond this period are currently limited.

When to expect results?

Improvements in joint pain may be noticed after approximately 3 weeks of consistent daily supplementation, while metabolic benefits might take a longer duration to become apparent.

Does form matter?

Yes, the form of rosehip extract can influence its effectiveness. Extracts with higher bioavailability, such as fermented aqueous extracts, may be more effective than raw powders due to better absorption of active compounds.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10821714/ – This systematic review found that rosehip extract significantly reduced LDL cholesterol, fasting glucose (-20.4%), HbA1c (-13.5%), and other cardiovascular risk markers. Some studies also indicated fat loss and blood pressure reduction. The review highlighted heterogeneity in doses and preparations but included high-quality RCTs.
https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2012/july/rosehip – This meta-analysis of three randomized controlled trials involving 287 osteoarthritis patients found that rosehip powder significantly reduced WOMAC pain and disability scores. It reported an effect size of 0.37, indicating a moderate but clinically meaningful improvement and doubling the likelihood of response compared to placebo over a median of three months.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11043540/ – This review article discussed the phytochemical variability, bioavailability, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of rosehip. It noted that fermented extracts might offer superior efficacy due to enhanced bioavailability, although much of the supporting data is preclinical or in vitro, requiring further clinical correlation.