Rosehip & Arthritis

Rosehips, the fruit from the common rose plant, have a long history of medicinal use. Scientific evidence collected during the first decade of the 21st century suggests that rosehips could provide relief from arthritic pain by reducing inflammation. Other benefits abound, making rosehips a worthy addition to your wellness cabinet.

Traditional Uses

• For centuries, folk herbalists recommended teas, syrups, powders and other forms of rosehips. The remedies were for infections, colds, urinary tract problems, digestive disorders and overall wellness. As a specific remedy for arthritis, few direct references exist in traditional herbology. But many herbalists throughout history recommended rosehips and other parts of the rose for relief of pain.

Findings of Modern Research

• At least four clinical studies from 1999 to 2010 show that rosehip powder can provide relief for arthritic pain and stiffness. Thus, it can also help to reduce dependence on pain-killers. Dr. Kaj Winther, who has done considerable rosehip research at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, concluded that rosehips aid in reducing inflammation and damage to joint tissues, protecting them from further deterioration, even leading to some regeneration.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain

• In a double-blind clinical trial study published in "Phytomedicine," Feb. 1, 2010, researchers worked with 89 patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. After six months, their conclusion: A standardized powder made from rosehips could relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. The researchers concluded that the "physical score improved significantly in the rose-hip group compared to placebo."

Osteoarthritis Pain

• The journal "Osteoarthritis Cartilage," Sept. 16, 2008, reports another study in which researchers concluded that the main reason for reduction of pain is rosehip's ability to reduce inflammation. It did this by strengthening the work of the immune system's white blood cells. The test showed that, after four weeks, the serum-C-reactive protein measured lower. The researchers suggested that rosehip preparation could replace or supplement some drug therapies used for osteoarthritis.

Lifestyle Factors

• According to the Arthritis Foundation in 2010, about 27 million people are affected by osteoarthritis and another 1.3 million by rheumatoid arthritis in the United States alone. Factors contributing to many cases are diet, obesity, lack of exercise, stress and accidents. Of course, hereditary weaknesses figure in too. So far, there is no cure for the ravages of this disease. But both natural remedies and medical science can help manage the disease. Along with improvements in lifestyle, rosehip remedies could help many patients improve their condition.

Side Effects of Rosehips

• First enjoy the rose's blooms, then enjoy its healing food.

  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration lists rosehips as "generally recognized as safe." Rarely, there are side effects. These include allergic reactions, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness and headaches. As with almost any herbal remedy, rosehips can affect the body's use of prescription drugs, such as blood-thinners and insulin. If you are on any medication, it's important you check with your medical care professional about adding herbal remedies.