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Rose Extract

Q: Is rose extract safe for long-term use?

Current evidence supports safety for up to 3 months of use; however, longer-term data are limited, so consult a healthcare professional for extended use.

Q: How quickly can I expect pain relief?

Some individuals report improvement within 3 weeks, but maximal pain relief for osteoarthritis is often observed after 3 months of consistent use.

Q: Can rose extract replace conventional medications?

Rose extract may complement existing treatments but should not replace prescribed medications without explicit medical advice from your doctor.

Q: Are there differences between rose species?

Yes, the bioactive profiles vary among rose species. Rosa canina (rosehip) and Rosa damascena are the most extensively studied for their health benefits.

Q: Does rose extract help with blood sugar control?

Evidence suggests modest glucose-lowering effects, potentially beneficial for individuals with metabolic syndrome or those seeking to support blood sugar regulation.

Also known as: Rose extract, Rosehip extract, Rose oil, Rose petal extract, Rosa damascena, Rosa roxburghii, Rosa rugosa, Rosa canina

Overview

Rose extract is a herbal supplement derived from various species of the genus Rosa, primarily Rosa canina (rosehip) and Rosa damascena. It is obtained from the petals, hips (fruit), or essential oils of these plants. Rosehip extract, specifically from the fruit, is notably rich in antioxidants and vitamins. This botanical extract is commonly utilized for its potential benefits in managing osteoarthritis pain, supporting cardiovascular health, exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects, regulating blood glucose, and promoting skin health. Its key characteristics stem from bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamin C, and essential oils, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic regulatory properties. Research on rose extract is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses supporting its efficacy, particularly for osteoarthritis and metabolic conditions. While evidence quality is generally good, some studies may have limitations regarding sample size or duration.

Benefits

Rose extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily for osteoarthritis and metabolic health. For osteoarthritis, a meta-analysis of three RCTs (n=287) demonstrated that 5 g/day of rosehip powder significantly reduced pain scores with an effect size of 0.37, halving the likelihood of pain compared to placebo after 3 months. Improvements were also noted in stiffness and disability, with pain relief often observed within 3 weeks to 3 months. In terms of cardiovascular and metabolic health, a systematic review reported significant reductions in LDL cholesterol, fasting blood glucose (FBG) by 20.4%, and HbA1c by 13.5%, with some effects comparable to metformin. Secondary benefits included reductions in systolic blood pressure (-3.4%) and abdominal fat (visceral fat area decreased by 10.4%). Rose damascena extracts have shown over 50% inhibition of alpha-glucosidase enzyme activity, suggesting anti-diabetic potential by reducing carbohydrate absorption. Additionally, improvements in mood, wellbeing, and sleep quality have been reported in osteoarthritis patients using rosehip. While preliminary studies suggest skin health benefits, more research is needed. These benefits are most pronounced in adults with osteoarthritis and those at risk for metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes.

How it works

Rose extract exerts its therapeutic effects through multiple biological pathways. Its primary anti-inflammatory action is mediated by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, which helps alleviate joint inflammation in conditions like osteoarthritis. The extract also possesses significant antioxidant activity, neutralizing harmful free radicals and reducing oxidative stress throughout the body. For metabolic benefits, rose extract, particularly from Rosa damascena, inhibits the alpha-glucosidase enzyme, thereby reducing carbohydrate absorption in the gut and lowering postprandial glucose levels. It also modulates lipid metabolism, contributing to improvements in cholesterol profiles. These mechanisms collectively interact with the musculoskeletal system (reducing inflammation), cardiovascular system (improving lipid profile and blood pressure), and metabolic system (regulating glucose). The polyphenols and vitamin C present in rose extracts are bioavailable, contributing to these systemic effects.

Side effects

Rose extract is generally considered safe and well-tolerated in clinical trials. The most common side effect, reported occasionally, is mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects (1-5% frequency) include allergic reactions, particularly in individuals sensitive to rose or related plants. Rare side effects (<1% frequency) are not well-documented, as no serious adverse events have been reported in high-quality clinical trials. However, caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions, especially with antidiabetic medications, due to rose extract's glucose-lowering effects; concurrent use should be monitored by a healthcare professional. Contraindications include a known allergy to rose or any of its components. Data on the safety of rose extract in pregnant or breastfeeding women are limited, and therefore, its use in these special populations is not recommended without medical supervision. Overall, while generally safe, individuals should be aware of potential mild GI upset and allergic reactions.

Dosage

For osteoarthritis, the minimum effective dose of rosehip powder has been established at 5 grams per day. This dosage has consistently demonstrated efficacy in reducing pain and improving joint function. While optimal dosage ranges for other conditions, such as metabolic effects, can vary, they often involve standardized extracts equivalent to several grams of rosehip. The maximum safe dose has not been firmly established, but doses up to 5 grams per day have been well-tolerated in clinical trials without significant adverse effects. Daily intake is recommended for consistent benefits, with effects typically accruing over several weeks to months. For osteoarthritis, improvements can be observed within 3 weeks, with maximal benefits often seen after 3 months of continuous use. Rose extract is available in various forms, including powdered rosehip, standardized extracts, or essential oils, with specific recommendations depending on the intended use. Co-administration with food may enhance the absorption of some of its bioactive components. No specific cofactors are required for its efficacy, though its natural vitamin C content may enhance its antioxidant properties.

FAQs

Is rose extract safe for long-term use?

Current evidence supports safety for up to 3 months of use; however, longer-term data are limited, so consult a healthcare professional for extended use.

How quickly can I expect pain relief?

Some individuals report improvement within 3 weeks, but maximal pain relief for osteoarthritis is often observed after 3 months of consistent use.

Can rose extract replace conventional medications?

Rose extract may complement existing treatments but should not replace prescribed medications without explicit medical advice from your doctor.

Are there differences between rose species?

Yes, the bioactive profiles vary among rose species. Rosa canina (rosehip) and Rosa damascena are the most extensively studied for their health benefits.

Does rose extract help with blood sugar control?

Evidence suggests modest glucose-lowering effects, potentially beneficial for individuals with metabolic syndrome or those seeking to support blood sugar regulation.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10821714/ – This systematic review evaluated the effects of daily rosehip extract intake on LDL cholesterol and blood glucose. It found significant reductions in fasting blood glucose (-20.4%) and HbA1c (-13.5%), comparable to metformin in some studies, along with reductions in abdominal fat and systolic blood pressure. The study highlighted the potential of rosehip for metabolic health, despite some heterogeneity in the included studies.
https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2012/july/rosehip – This meta-analysis included three randomized controlled trials involving 287 osteoarthritis patients treated with 5 g/day of rosehip powder for 3 months. It demonstrated a significant reduction in pain (effect size 0.37) and decreased reliance on rescue medication. The findings support rosehip's efficacy for osteoarthritis pain, noting a moderate sample size and short duration as limitations.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10758878/ – This review summarized the anti-diabetic and antioxidant effects of various rose extracts, emphasizing their alpha-glucosidase inhibition and evidence from animal models for glucose lowering and testicular protection. It provided comprehensive mechanistic insights and noted supportive but limited human clinical data. The review underscores the potential of rose extracts in managing diabetes and oxidative stress.