The Benefits of Rosehip Oil

Which is loveliest in a rose?
Its coy beauty when it's budding, or its splendour when it blows?
-George Barlow

The beauty of a rose is undeniable and immense. However, some roses pack a powerhouse of health benefits. Roses' gorgeous petals and beautiful aroma draw us to admire them. Unde eath all the beauty of a rose is where that flower's true health benefits lie. Beneath the bloom and behind the fragrance there is the fruit of the rose, or the rose hip. Rose Hips are reddish and berry-shaped and contain a host of beneficial properties.

What is Rosehip Oil?
The oil comes from the crushed seeds of the hips (the seedpod of the flower) suspended in a "carrier" oil. Commercial preparations are available through many sources, but there are also recipes for making it at home which uses rose hips and almond oil combined and cooked in a slow cooker.

Traditional Uses of Rosehips
Rose species grow throughout the world. Rose hips played a part in foods and medicines for eons prior to the recent resurgence of their popularity. In the Chilean Andes, their' virtues are held in high regard, and have been for centuries. Traditional uses of rose hips include treatment of arthritis, colds and the flu, indigestion, bladder stones, and gonorrhea. The hips are ingredients used to make tisanes, jams, and jellies, and even wine.

The Benefits of Rose Hip Oil
Rose Hips pack a serious amount of vitami C, and along with it, bioflavonoid substances and essential fatty acids. It is believed that it may be a useful tool in medical and spa treatments alike. Rose Hips may help people with osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis. This makes sense as a diet high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids helps in the treatment of RA. A University of Copenhagen study found that powdered rose hips were three times better at reducing the pain of osteoarthritis than some analgesics. There are some indications that they may help to prevent kidney stones. Reports indicate possible cancer preventative properties. Some preparations may help treat bladder and kidney problems, stomach complaints, gout, and high cholesterol.
Beyond medicines, many of the important benefits of the natural oil are associated with the cosmetic powers in particular for skin care. Rose Hip oil contains substantial levels of vitami A and other skin friendly compounds. It helps scars heal and is a great natural moisturizer. It reduces the appearance of sun damage, both discoloration and wrinkles. Health experts have described the oil as being very rich in vitami C, high in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, retinoic acid while also being non-greasy, and a favorite skin treatment for a number of celebrities.

Contraindication
Rose Hip Oil is generally safe for use by most individuals, but some people should take precautions prior to using it for medicinal reasons, including diabetics, people with certain types of anemia and since the oil can increase how much oestrogen the body absorbs, those on oestrogen therapy also need to be careful. It all comes down to common sense: if you are taking any medications, you should consult with a health care professional before starting on a Rose Hip Oil regime.