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Glossary
Botanical Terms
Medical Terms

Rosa canina

The Medieval Latin name can na is the feminine of can nus which means "of a dog".

  The dog-rose is so called because it was supposed to cure the bite of a mad dog.

Also known as wild brier or Rosehip, this plant is a popular aromatic ingredient in many teas and potpourris.

The inner part of a rose, known as the "hip," is a fleshy fruit that contains the seeds of the flower. They were widely used by Native Americans and prevented scurvy because of their large amount of bioflavanoids and vitamins. Fresh rose hips contain from 0.5% to 1.7% vitamin C.

The leaves and fruits of Rosehip have traditionally been used internally for colds & influenza, sore throat, minor infections, spasms, scurvy, diarrhea, gastritis, nephritis, cancer (kidney) and tumour (genital). They are also strengthening to the capillaries.

It is astringent, anti-diarrhoeic, diuretic, anti-scorbutic and anti-inflammatory.

Brier hips are particularly beneficial for the digestive apparatus and produce a diuretic effect without irritating the kidneys. Where there is a tendency toward kidney stones or gravel, brier hips are used as a preventive or arrestant. They are also recommended for kidney or bladder inflammation. By eliminating uric acid accumulations, brier hips also help in gouty and rheumatic complaints.