Part Used

Fruit

Systems

Skin

Actions

High in Vitamin C. For more actions/properties, see Rose.

Traditional Uses

An excellent immune-system booster, often used as a supplement to prevent or treat a cold. The fruit acids and pectin in rose hip tea is a mild diuretic and laxative. May improve and relieve symptoms of kidney disorders, and help in cases of mild constipation. ^1.

Part Used

Leaf

Systems

Immune

Actions

Antiseptic; antispasmodic; carminative; cholagogue; estrogenic; tonic

Traditional Uses

Used as a mouthwash or gargle for mouth/tongue/throat inflammations. A tonic for the nervous system and GIT. Indicated for menstrual irregularities, menopausal night-sweats, and to counteract the greying of hair. Applied topically to insect bites, wounds, and skin infections. ^1.

Part Used

Root

Systems

Endocrine; reproductive

Actions

Anti-inflammatory; anti-rheumatic; antispasmodic; diaphoretic; diuretic; expectorant; hepatic; hormone balancer

Traditional Uses

Indicated in inflammatory conditions of the gallbladder, GIT, joints, uterus and ovaries. Reduces inflammation and pain associated with smooth muscle spasms in intestinal cramping, dysmenorrhea, and ovarian cysts. Has specific use for acute phases of RA and will aid in all types of arthritis, joint/muscle pain, and neuralgias. Promotes the flow of bile. ^1. 2.

Part Used

Flower

Systems

Nervous

Actions

Analgesic; antiseptic; antispasmodic; aphrodisiac; sedative

Traditional Uses

Referred to in India, as the ‘flower of love’. Treats conjunctivitis, fevers, urinary inflammation, and infections. Helpful in relieving anxiety. Used therapeutically for heatstroke, sunstroke, and headaches. ^2.

Part Used

Leaves

Systems

Reproductive; nervous

Actions

Antidepressant; antimicrobial; aphrodisiac; digestive; laxative; mild purgative; nervine tonic & relaxant; reproductive organ tonic; stimulant; urinary antiseptic

Traditional Uses

An excellent nerve tonic especially in anxiety and/or depression, stress and a lowered sexual drive. Long and widespread use as an aphrodisiac and is most indicated in cases of anxiety or depression that have impotence or low sexual desire as a main manifestation. Effective for treatment of hormonal imbalances manifesting as premenstrual acne, dysmenorrhea, and headache. ^1. 2.