Name: Rosehips

Biological name:  Rosa canina

Parts used: Fruits (hips)

Contains: bioflavonoids, biotin, calcium, carotenoids, catchins, chromium, citrates, citric acid, traces of copper, cobalt, fatty oils, fibre, flavonoids, fruit acids, iron, magnesium, malates, manganese, malic acid, organic acids, pectin, phosphorus, polyphenols, potassium, protein, selenium, silica, sodium, tannins, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3 B6, C (20 times more than in oranges) E, K, volatile oils and zinc.

Reported actions: alterative, astringent, aperient, antidiarrheal, antihistamine, detoxifying, diuretic, hepatic, nervine and tonic.

May assist with: Boosting the immune system, relieving inflammation, promoting tissue repair, protecting against infections and inflammations, fighting infections, purifying blood, encouraging strong hoof growth, preventing influenza (combined with garlic), protecting against pollution, alleviating nervousness, stress and tension, reducing mucous and fluid in the body, relieving skin problems, and enhancing the body’s ability to absorb vitamin C.

It is an excellent source of minerals and vitamins. Rosehips can help horses that have been ill for lengthy periods to return to full health and recover from severe debility and fatigue. Known to improve circulation, it can be helpful as a preventative for tying up, laminitis and anaemia. It can be given prior to travel to assist in protecting the body from kidney and adrenal exhaustion caused by fear and panic.

It has been used to gently move the bowel’s contents. Rosehips can be used for constipation, diarrhoea, gut disturbances, indigestion and stomach weakness. Has benefitted allergies, colds, flu, hay fever, pneumonia and to relieve inflammation in the respiratory system.

Suggestion: Grow rosehips in paddocks to allow horses to browse and self-medicate, but note that it is regarded as an environmental weed in South Australia, and is on the prohibited species list in Western Australia.

Herbal supplements should never replace evidence-based management and treatment. This article is not intended as veterinary advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions for your horse based upon research and in partnership with a qualified equine veterinarian and nutritionist.