Scientific research has discovered plenty of medicinal properties of the sweet briar rose. The inner surface of the plant’s fruit is covered by a layer of blonde, rigid hair, popularly called “itch-scratch,” about which Font Quer said “provokes itching when introduced between the shirt and the skin. The same is felt around the anus when, after eating sweet briar rose fruit, these hairs cross the whole digestive tract undamaged and leave their host.”
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Sweet Briar Rose Scientific Facts
- Other names: Wild briar, eglantine gall, rosehip.
- French: Rosier des chiens.
- Spanish: Escaramujo, rosal silvestre, cinorrodon.
- Environment: Common along roadsides and bushes throughout Europe and naturalized in America.
- Description: This shrub of the Rosaceae family grows from one to three meters high and has prickly stems. The leaves are alternate and have 5-7 oval folioles and toothed edges. The flowers have five pink or whitish petals. What is commonly known as a red and olive-shaped fruit is a pseudo-fruit formed by the remains of the flower calyx.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The fruits, the flowers, the leaves, and the root.
Healing Properties and Indications
The fruit of the sweet briar rose contains various sugars and organic acids, pectin, mineral salts, carotene (provitamin A), and vitamins B1, B2, C, E, and P (flavonoids). Its vitamin C content reaches 600 mg per 100 g and can be up to 800 mg, superior to that of lemon, which only contains 50 mg. Therefore, sweet briar rose is one of the most prosperous plants in vitamin C, ranked over the kiwi (300 mg), alfalfa (183 mg), and currant (170 mg).
Sweet briar rose is only second to the exceptional acerola fruit, which, when ripe, can reach 2500 mg of vitamin C per 100 g and, when green, can reach 6000 mg. The properties of the plant’s fruit are the following:
- Invigorating and antiscorbutic: They are helpful for physical exhaustion, asthenia, and healing. Sweet briar rose fruits concentrate on natural vitamins, especially vitamin C. Though scurvy (lack of vitamin C) is a rare ailment in developed countries, a high supply of this vitamin has a stimulating effect.
- Immunostimulant: The fruit is a defense stimulant to prevent influenza and colds. It is recommended for all infectious diseases, especially in children.
- Diuretic and depurative: They are recommended for edema, an overloaded diet when it is rich in meat and animal products, gout, and arthritis, and whenever the action of a mild diuretic with depurative properties is required.
The fruit of Sweet Briar rose has been used and eaten whole against taeniae and other intestinal parasites, though with no scientific basis. Some people said it was effective due to its itching hairs, which intestinal parasites could not endure.
The PETALS of its flowers contain pectin, tannin, organic acids, and small amounts of essence. Like all rose petals, they serve as an ingredient to prepare rose water, from which good results are obtained when washing eyes suffering from conjunctivitis or blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids).
The LEAVES and the roots contain tannic acid and have astringent properties. They are used for simple diarrhea and gastroenteritis.
The SEEDS of briar rose are very hard and lack any effect on urine calculi as it was formerly thought, but when ground, they liberate a toxic essence that affects the nervous system.
Raw Briar Hip Marmalade
Once you have cleaned the fruit, mash it until you have cream and add the same weight of sugar. This will preserve all vitamins and obtain a pleasant flavor. This marmalade or jelly can be maintained for several days when kept in the refrigerator.
How to use Sweet Briar Rose
- Fresh fruit is the best way to take advantage of this plant’s vitamin C content. Choose ripe fruit, open it, and wash it under water, removing all hairs and seeds. Eat a generous handful every day.
- Fruit decoction, with 50-60 g of fruit per liter of water. Drink four or five cups daily. Vitamin C is lost, but its diuretic, depurative, and mild astringent properties remain.
- Decoction of root and leaves, with 100 g of root and/or leaves of sweet briar rose in one and a half liters of water. Boil until the liquid reduces to one liter. Drink several cups daily as antidiarrheic.
- Water of roses: Steep a handful of briar rose petals in a glass of cold extract for 24 hours. Then, wring them out and throw them away. Wash the eyes with the resulting liquid.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the vital bioactive compounds found in sweet briar rose?
The plant is especially rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. It contains many polyphenols, including flavonoids, and has various health-promoting effects. Rosehips (the plant’s fruit) are a source of carotenoids, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also offers some essential fatty acids.
Are there studies supporting using sweet briar rose for osteoarthritis?
Yes, some promising research exists. Studies indicate that rosehip preparations could reduce pain and inflammation and improve joint function in osteoarthritis patients.
Can sweet briar rose help with skin health?
Traditionally, rosehip seed oil has been used to address scars, burns, and wrinkles. While more research is needed, initial studies suggest potential benefits in wound healing, skin regeneration, and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
How is sweet briar rose typically consumed for its potential health benefits?
Rosehip tea: Steep dried rosehips in hot water is a popular way to enjoy rosehips.
Capsules/Powder: Rosehip supplements are widely available for convenience.
Rosehip oil: Applied topically for potential skin-related benefits.
Does sweet briar rose have any digestive benefits?
Traditionally, the rose petals have been used for mild digestive issues. The hips contain pectin, a type of fiber that can act as a mild laxative and may help regulate bowel movements.
Can sweet briar rose provide immune support?
The high vitamin C content offers antioxidant and potential immune-boosting properties. Some studies indicate rosehips may support immunity, although further research is needed.
Are there any potential side effects of using sweet briar rose?
Sweet briar rose is generally considered safe when consumed in moderation.
Some people may experience mild side effects like nausea, diarrhea, or headaches.
Rosehips can interfere with certain medications, so consulting a doctor before use is crucial.
Are the sweet briar flowers and the fruit (rosehips) used for the same purposes?
While both offer potential benefits, they have some distinct uses:
Rosehips are primarily known for their high Vitamin C content and potential benefits for osteoarthritis and skin health.
Rose petals are traditionally used for digestive support and may offer calming properties.
Is there a recommended dose for sweet briar rose preparations?
Dosages can vary depending on the form (tea, supplement, etc.) and the specific purpose. When looking for tailored counsel, following the instructions printed on the product or talking with a healthcare practitioner is essential.
Where can I find reliable information about sweet briar rose?
PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)
NIH (https://www.nih.gov/)
Universities/Research Institutions: Websites specializing in herbal medicine and plant studies.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) [https://www.nccih.nih.gov/]
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 762,763,764. Print.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3511180/
- NIH – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API