8 fascinating health benefits of Rose hips

Rose hip is the fruit of wild rose plant. Rose hip is also called rose hep or rose haw, and ranges in colour from orange to purplish black and grows around late summer to autumn.

Rich in nutrients and disease-fighting properties, rose hips have gained attention for their role in health and beauty. The benefits of rose hip are many.

They have been traditionally used for their medicinal properties and are heavily researched today. Below are 8 health benefits of Rose hip:

1. Improve heart health
According to a study, rose hip may aid in preventing heart disease. It improves systolic blood pressure, and lowers cholesterol levels

2. Lower diabetes
People with type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of obesity and high blood pressure. According to a study published in the American Journal of Physiology, scientists found that powdered rose hip reduces the accumulation of fat cells in the liver. In addition, the compounds present in the plant help normalize blood sugar levels.

3. Reduce obesity risk
The daily intake of rose hip extract aids in lowering abdominal fat, abdominal visceral fat, body weight, and body mass index, according to a study published in Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy

4. Prevent cancer
According to a study, rose hip extract reduces the growth and migration of breast cancer cells as much as 45%. According to a study, the phytochemicals present in rose hip may prevent the proliferation of human cancer cells

5. Treat arthritis symptoms
Many studies have shown that rose hip can help treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. In a study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology, researchers found that regular intake of 5 g rose hip supplement reduces osteoarthritis pain.

Another study found that rose hip supplements improved physical function in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

6. Boost immunity
Rose hip is an excellent source of vitamin C which helps in treating inflammation and strengthens immunity. It also prevents and shortens the duration of cold and flu symptoms

7. Cure gastrointestinal problems
Gastrointestinal problems include constipation, diarrhoea, stomach ulcers, gallstones, kidney disorders and gallbladder problems. According to a 2017 review study, rose hip slows down the contraction of intestinal muscles, thereby treating gastrointestinal problems

8. Enhance skin health
Rose hip has the potent ability to increase skin cell longevity, delay wrinkles, and maintain skin moisture and elasticity. Rose hip has anti-ageing properties that improve ageing-induced skin conditions.