How to Use Rose Hips

Rose hips are edible even though they're from the flower family. When the blossoms of the rose flower are pruned, the plant grows more flowers. If left unattended, you'll see small berry-like seed pods that are red in color and located on the stem, close to the tip. These pods are specifically eaten by birds.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Knife
• Water

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Instructions

• 1

  Wait until after the first snow frost has covered the rose hips. The frost helps give the rose hips a sweeter flavor, keeps them firm and gives them a brighter color. Harvest the rose hips by picking them, but leave the drier rose hips for the birds to consume.

• 2

  Use a pair of scissors or a knife to slice the rose hips in half. Remove the seeds from inside the rose hips. These seeds should not be eaten. Trim the stem and also the end of the blossom.

• 3

  Rinse the rose hips of any dirt or debris. Place eight rose hips in a cup of hot water and steep for about 15 minutes for fresh rose hip tea.

• 4

  Use a knife and cut up the rose hips into small pieces. Add to your liquid bathing soap and use to exfoliate your skin.

• 5

  Pick rose hips that are fully ripe. Get rid of the end of the blossoms and the stalk. Rinse the rose hip berries with cold water. Place eight rose hips in a pan and cover with water. Boil and let simmer for an additional 15 minutes. Strain the mixture after cooling. Press it through a sieve, which will produce a puree. Throw away the seeds and any skin left.