Rosehips are the small, vibrant red or orange fruits that form after a rose flower fades. Often harvested from wild or heirloom rose varieties (Rosa canina and others), rosehips are valued in herbal traditions for their nutrient content and their ability to support wellness, especially during seasonal transitions.
Tart, tangy, and rich in plant compounds, rosehips are often brewed into teas, blended into syrups, or powdered into capsules.
Traditionally, rosehips have been used to:
Support the immune system, especially during the fall and winter months
Provide nourishment through natural plant compounds
Offer a gentle source of vitamin C from food-based origins
Comfort the body during times of recovery
Add a tangy, fruity flavor to teas and herbal blends
They’re often found in wellness teas and herbal syrups.
Rosehips have been used for generations in both folk and culinary traditions. During World War II, when imported citrus fruits were scarce in the UK, rosehip syrup became a staple source of nourishment for children and families.
In European and Native American herbalism, rosehips were often made into teas, stews, or preserves to support the body through the colder months. The tangy fruit was considered a nourishing tonic, especially when the body needed extra support.
Traditional herbalists also valued rosehips for their ability to gently support circulation and tissue tone.
Rosehips form on wild or cultivated rose bushes after the petals fall away. They look like small berries and range in color from orange to deep red. They’re typically harvested in late summer to early fall, once fully ripe but before frost softens them too much.
Inside each rosehip are small seeds and tiny hairs that can be irritating to the digestive track and should removed before consumption. The outer shell is dried and used for teas, powders, or syrups.
Rosehips can be prepared in a variety of nourishing ways:
Herbal teas – often paired with hibiscus or elderberry
Syrups and jams – made from simmered and strained fruit
Powders or capsules – as a gentle food-based supplement
Topical skincare blends – rosehip seed oil is popular in facial care
Their tart flavor pairs well with cinnamon, ginger, or citrus in warming winter blends.
Rosehips are generally well tolerated when properly prepared. The inner hairs and seeds should be removed before use, as they may irritate the digestive tract. If gathering your own, be sure the plant has not been sprayed with pesticides. As always, consult a practitioner before using concentrated preparations if you are pregnant, nursing, or managing a health condition.