Rose hips – the fruit of the wild rose and Swedish home cooking

Rosehip is the fruit of the wild rose (Rosa canina), a thorny bush that grows wild throughout Sweden and large parts of Europe. The berries ripen in autumn and often remain on the branches well into winter, when they are an important food source for pheasants and other birds.

Historical use in Sweden

Rosehips have been picked and used in Swedish households for centuries, partly for marmalade and juice, and partly for the classic rosehip soup. During World War II, when imported citrus fruits were scarce, rosehip soup became a significant source for many Swedish households, and authorities actively encouraged the picking and preservation of rosehips during that period.

How rosehip powder is made

To make powder, the ripe rosehips are carefully dried and then ground, usually with the seeds remaining ("whole rosehip powder") because the skin itself contains most of the nutrients while the seeds contribute fiber.

What rosehip contains

Rosehip contains vitamin C, flavonoids, carotenoids and anthocyanins, as well as minerals such as iron, calcium and potassium. Rosehip also contains the galactolipid GOPO, a substance that has been the subject of scientific studies regarding joint comfort.

Good to know

Rosehip powder in larger quantities can have a mild diuretic and slightly laxative effect. People using blood-thinning medications should consult a doctor before regular use, as high doses of vitamin C can affect the efficacy of certain medicines.

Use in the kitchen

Rosehip powder can be mixed into porridge, yogurt, smoothies or baked goods, and is a classic ingredient in rosehip soup even in modern times. Our organic rosehip powder is an example of how the powder is usually sold.