Most people know roses to be grown for their beauty in the floral world. However, there are other uses of the plant as well. Rose hips, for example, are a great source of Vitamin C. So much, in fact, it has a much higher content than that of citrus fruits.

Rose hips are also commonly referred to as a rose haw. Either way, it is the pomaceous fruit of the rose plant which tends to be a reddish color. The rose hip is generally used for cooking and can even be utilized as an herbal remedy.

When applied in cooking, rose hips taste tangy as well as sweet. They can be used fresh, dried, or preserved, making a great herbal tea, bread, soup, jelly, and many other wonderful tasting treats.

When cooking with rose hips, be sure that they have not been treated with any insecticides or pesticides that can be harmful if consumed. They are best when they are harvested after the first frost, having a bright red color and softness to them. When you are ready to prepare them, trim off the blossom and stem ends with scissors or a knife. Cut them in half lengthwise, remove the tiny hairs and seeds in the center, and rinse. It is best if you use iron or copper pans and utensils and avoid aluminum ones as they tend to make the vitamin C perish.

When it comes to drying rose hips, you have a few options. First, spread the prepared halves in a single layer on trays. Next you can either place them in a dehydrator, an oven set on low, or in a dark, dry, well-ventilated place. As per usual with drying foods, store the rose hips in glass jars in a dark, cool place.

As aforementioned, rose hips have medical properties as well. Not only are they a wonderful source of Vitamin C intake, but they also contain Vitamins A, D and E. Other uses include:

Preventing urinary bladder infections
Stopping dizziness and headaches
Restoring firmness to skin by nourishing and astringing tissue
Treating constipation

As you can see, roses are more than just one of nature's decorations. When prepared properly, they can make for a nutritious food item or even help you overcome a couple of common illnesses. Whatever the case may be, one thing is for sure: Rose hips are an important part of the plant world.

Learn more about this author, Kelly A. Mello.
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