DOG-ROSE - ROSA CANINA
DOG-ROSE - ROSA CANINA
Local name: ასკილი
Where to find it: Adjara, Guria, Kartli
Elevation: from sea level to 1,500 meters above sea level
Terrain: woods, hedgerows, scrub, open fields and meadows
Description: The dog rose (Rosa canina) is a deciduous shrub with a graceful, arching form. In late spring to early summer, it adorns itself with delicate pink or white flowers, each boasting five soft petals. The foliage consists of pinnate leaves, finely serrated along the edges, giving the plant a textured and feathery appearance. As the season progresses, the flowers give way to vivid red or
orange spherical rose hips, adding a burst of color to the shrub. The stems of the dog rose are often elegantly curved, adorned with occasional thorns.
Usable parts: Hips (Fruits), Leaves, Roots
Medicinal properties:
Rosa Canina (Dog Rose) Health Considerations:
Rich in Vitamin C: Dog rose hips are high in vitamin C, supporting the immune system and overall health.
Antioxidant Properties: Contains antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols, countering oxidative stress.
Immune System Support: Traditional uses involve using dog rose, especially hips, to bolster the immune system.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Compounds like polyphenols may offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
Gastrointestinal Health: Historically used for digestive issues, with leaves or roots in infusions for mild astringent effects.
Undesired Effects:
Allergic Reactions: Individuals with known allergies to roses or related plants may experience allergic reactions to dog rose. This can manifest as skin irritation, itching, or respiratory symptoms.
Seed Precautions: The seeds within rose hips contain tiny hairs that can cause irritation if ingested in large quantities. While it’s safe to consume rose hips in culinary preparations like
teas and jams, it’s recommended to remove the seeds or use products where the seeds have been processed and removed to avoid potential discomfort
Preparation:
Hips (Fruits) – Immune Support: Tea or Infusion:
Use dried or fresh dog rose hips.
Crush or chop the hips.
Steep 1-2 teaspoons in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
Strain and optionally sweeten with honey.
Leaves – General Health: Tea:
Use dried dog rose leaves.
Steep 1-2 teaspoons in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
Strain and consume.
Roots – Digestive Health: Decoction:
Use dried dog rose roots.
Chop or slice roots.
Boil 1-2 teaspoons in water for 15-20 minutes.
Strain and cool before consumption.
Harvest time:
Dog Rose Hips (Fruits): late summer to early fall (August to October);
Dog Rose Leaves: spring and summer;
Dog Rose Roots: in late fall or early spring.
Harvest method:
Hips (Fruits):
Color: Look for hips that have turned red or orange.
Method: Use scissors or pruners to cut the hips, leaving a short stem attached.
Leaves:
Stage: Collect leaves before the plant flowers for optimal tenderness.
Method: Use clean scissors or your fingers to gently pluck leaves, avoiding damage to the plant.
Roots:
Digging: Use a trowel or shovel to carefully dig around the base of the plant.
Preservation: Be mindful not to damage the main root system, and consider leaving some roots to allow the plant to regenerate.
Conservation:
Hips (Fruits):
Drying: Clean, cut, air-dry, and store in airtight containers.
Freezing: Clean, freeze in bags for longer storage.
Infusions: Make vinegar or syrup with dried hips.
Leaves:
Drying: Harvest, air-dry, store in airtight containers.
Freezing: Clean, freeze in bags for longer storage.
Infused Oil: Combine dried leaves with carrier oil.
Roots:
Drying: Harvest, clean, slice, air-dry, store in airtight containers.
Freezing: Clean, slice, freeze in bags for longer storage.
Decoction: Boil dried roots in water for medicinal use.