Rosehips / Dog Rose (Rosa canina)

Description of Rosehips / Dog Rose:

Rosehips are the edible red or dark orange fruit produced by the Dog Rose, a scrambling climber with arching, thorny stems. The Dog Rose has large, white or pink, five-petalled flowers and green, oval-toothed leaves.

Harvesting Time and Method of Rosehips / Dog Rose:

Rosehips are typically gathered from the end of September throughout autumn and early winter. Traditionally, they were believed to be best picked after the first frost to maximize flavour, but this practice has changed with climate shifts. Freezing the rosehips can simulate the effects of frost and improve their flavour.

Edibility and Flavour of Rosehips / Dog Rose:

All rose hips, especially those from the Dog Rose, are edible. Wild roses have a sweet, tangy flavour with fruity undertones and a hint of warm toffee. However, rosehips contain small, irritating hairs and seeds that may need to be removed or strained when used in recipes.

Nutritional Profile of Rosehips / Dog Rose:

Rosehips are notably high in vitamin C, containing approximately twenty times more vitamin C than oranges. They are also rich in other nutrients like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Additionally, they contain antioxidant compounds such as phenols and flavonoids.

Food Uses of Rosehips / Dog Rose:

Rosehips can be used to make a variety of culinary creations, including:

Rosehip Syrup: This syrup is rich in vitamin C and can be used as a cordial, in cocktails, or poured over puddings and breakfasts.
Rosehip Tea: Made by steeping whole rosehips in boiled water. The tea has a unique, fruity flavour.
Rosehip Vinegar: A versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes.
Rosehip Soup (Nyponsoppa): A traditional Swedish dish that combines rosehips into a flavourful soup.
Infusions in Spirits: Rosehips can be infused with darker spirits such as rum, whiskey, or brandy to create unique alcoholic beverages.
Hedgerow Fruit Leather: A tasty, portable snack made by pureeing and drying rosehips.
Foraged Fruit Pastilles: These chewy confections can be made with rosehip puree.
Rosehip Oil: Used for various purposes, including skincare.

Medicinal Uses of Rosehips / Dog Rose:

The Dog Rose has a history of medicinal applications. Its rosehips have been used as remedies for conditions such as headaches, sore throats, infections, sciatica, gout, rheumatism, stress, and nervousness. Rosehip syrup, in particular, is known for its high vitamin C content and potential immune-boosting properties.

Safety Note - Rosehips / Dog Rose:

It's important to be cautious when dealing with rosehips' irritating hairs and seeds. While all rosehips are edible, the safety of the Dog Rose is not established during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is advisable to handle rosehips carefully and consult with a healthcare advisor for any specific health concerns.

Rosehips are an extraordinary wild edible, appreciated for their unique flavour and potential health benefits, and they find uses in various culinary and medicinal applications.