Wild Rose

Rosa spp.

Wild rose (Rosa spp.) can be found in meadows, woods, and along roads throughout much of the world. It creates prickly bushes, made of compound leaves and five-petaled flowers that are typically pink or white in color. Following flowering, rose produces red fruits called rose hips, which persist through winter and provide food for birds and other wildlife [1][2].

The hips are high in vitamin C and contain antioxidants and carotenoids [2][3][4]. They have traditionally been used in infusions, syrups, and preserves to promote immunity and aid recovery from colds [2][3]. Rosehip powder can be used to nourish the body over the winter and is a popular natural source of vitamin C [3]. Rosehip oil is extracted from the seeds and contains unsaturated fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and E, which can help to support collagen production and skin regeneration [4].

The flowers and petals are also valuable. They can be used in teas, tonics, and for aromatherapy to promote relaxation and emotional wellbeing. Roses have long been associated in folk medicine with protection, solace, and even physical and emotional healing in times of grief. Thorns and fragrance reflect the yin/yang of their hardy power and gentle beauty.

Wild roses still provide for both humans and the Earth. Weaving life through the seasons, they provide food and habitat for the local wildlife and support for our bodies and spirits.

[1] U.S. Forest Service. “Rosa L. – Rose, Briar.” In Woody Plant Seed Manual. n.d. https://www.fs.usda.gov/rm/pubs_series/wo/wo_ah727/wo_ah727_974_980.pdf

[2] Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). “Woods’ Rose (Rosa woodsii) Plant Guide.” n.d. https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/plantmaterials/wapmcpg11732.pdf

[3] Organic Authority. “Rose Hips: How to Use the Alternative Vitamin C.” n.d. https://www.organicauthority.com/eco-chic-table/rose-hips-how-to-use-the-alternative-vitamin-c

[4] Peña, F., S. Valencia, G. Tereucán, J. Nahuelcura, F. Jiménez-Aspee, P. Cornejo, and A. Ruiz. “Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in the Fruit of Rosehip (Rosa canina L. and Rosa rubiginosa L.).” Molecules 28 (2023): 3544. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28083544