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Organic Rose extract

Also known as: Organic rose extract, Rosehip extract, Rosehip oil, Rosa canina

Overview

Organic rose extract is derived from the fruit (rosehip) of the *Rosa canina* L. plant, commonly known as rosehip. It is obtained through processes like drying and powdering the fruit or oil extraction from its seeds. This botanical extract is widely used in dietary supplements, cosmetics, and traditional medicine due to its rich composition of antioxidants, vitamin C, polyphenols, and unsaturated fatty acids. These components contribute to its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. Primary applications include alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis, aiding in wound healing, and improving skin health, particularly in scar treatment. While several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews support its use, especially for osteoarthritis and skin healing, more large-scale, long-term studies are needed to fully establish its efficacy across all potential applications. The quality of existing evidence is moderate, with some studies having smaller cohorts that require replication.

Benefits

Organic rose extract, particularly in its powdered form, offers several evidence-based benefits. Its primary effect is the reduction of osteoarthritis pain. A meta-analysis of three randomized controlled trials involving 287 patients demonstrated that 5 grams per day of rosehip powder significantly reduced WOMAC pain scores, with an effect size of 0.37 (95% CI: 0.13–0.60), and patients were twice as likely to respond compared to placebo after approximately 3 months of treatment. This moderate effect size is considered clinically relevant, potentially reducing the need for rescue medication. The same meta-analysis and systematic reviews also reported improvements in stiffness and functional disability scores in osteoarthritis patients. Benefits are primarily observed in middle-aged and older adults with osteoarthritis. Additionally, rosehip oil shows potential for wound healing and scar treatment. A recent review highlighted its ability to improve postsurgical scars and promote skin regeneration, attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While promising, clinical trial data for dermatological applications are currently limited and require further validation through more rigorous studies. Pain and stiffness improvements can be noted as early as 3 weeks, with continued benefits up to 3 months of consistent supplementation.

How it works

Organic rose extract exerts its therapeutic effects primarily through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms. Its active compounds, including polyphenols and vitamin C, are believed to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress. This action likely involves the modulation of inflammatory pathways such as NF-kB and the scavenging of reactive oxygen species. In the musculoskeletal system, these anti-inflammatory properties help reduce joint inflammation and pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis. For skin health, the extract promotes collagen synthesis and provides antioxidant protection, aiding in regeneration and scar improvement. The oral bioavailability of active compounds can vary, which is why standardized extracts or powders are often used to ensure consistent dosing and efficacy.

Side effects

Organic rose extract is generally considered safe with a low incidence of adverse effects. The most commonly reported side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, are mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea or diarrhea. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, include rare allergic reactions, although these are not frequently observed. Serious adverse events have not been reported in controlled clinical trials. Regarding drug interactions, no significant interactions have been extensively documented. However, caution is advised for individuals taking anticoagulants (blood thinners) due to the potential for mild antiplatelet effects, although this interaction is not well-established. The primary contraindication is a known allergy to plants within the rose family. Data on the safety of organic rose extract in special populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, are limited, and therefore, caution is advised for these groups. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Dosage

For optimal benefits in osteoarthritis, the recommended dosage for organic rose extract, specifically standardized rosehip powder, is approximately 5 grams per day. This dosage has demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials. While a maximum safe dose has not been clearly established, doses up to 5 grams daily have been used safely in studies. For joint benefits, consistent daily dosing for at least 3 months is recommended, as improvements in pain and stiffness can be observed within 3 weeks and continue to progress over several months. For oral use, powdered rosehip standardized for active constituents like vitamin C and polyphenols is preferred to ensure consistent potency. Topical formulations, such as rosehip oil, vary in concentration and are used as directed for skin applications. Taking the supplement with meals may potentially enhance the absorption of its active compounds. No specific cofactors are required, but overall nutritional status may influence its effectiveness.

FAQs

Is organic rose extract effective for joint pain?

Yes, evidence supports moderate pain reduction in osteoarthritis with standardized rosehip powder at 5 g/day over 3 months, showing significant improvement in pain and stiffness.

Is it safe for long-term use?

Current data suggest good safety for up to 3 months of use. Longer-term safety requires further dedicated study to confirm sustained safety profiles.

Can it be used topically for scars?

Preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits for improving postsurgical scars and skin regeneration, but more robust clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy.

Does it interact with medications?

No major interactions are reported. However, caution is prudent if you are taking blood thinners due to a potential, though mild, antiplatelet effect.

How soon can benefits be expected?

Some pain relief may be noticed within 3 weeks of consistent use, with continued and more significant improvements typically observed over several months.

Research Sources

https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2012/july/rosehip – This source, likely a review or meta-analysis, discusses the efficacy of rosehip powder for osteoarthritis. It highlights a meta-analysis of three RCTs (n=287) showing that 5g/day of rosehip powder significantly reduced WOMAC pain scores with an effect size of 0.37 over 3 months, making patients twice as likely to respond compared to placebo. It also mentions improvements in stiffness and functional disability.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.15971 – This source, likely a review, focuses on the dermatological applications of rosehip oil. It discusses its potential in improving postsurgical scars and promoting skin regeneration, attributing these effects to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components. The source notes that while promising, clinical trial data are still limited and require further validation.