A rose hip is the seed pod of a wild rose plant. There are different wild rose species that can serve as sources of rose hips. In the past, rose hips are known to treat arthritis, colds and flus, bladder stones, indigestion, and gonorrhea. Today, rose hips are primarily utilized as a natural source of vitamin C. People who prefer natural products take this herb instead of synthetic Vitamin C.

Like other plant sources of Vitamin C, rose hips also include substances from the bioflavonoid family. There are also some evidences from small, placebo-controlled studies that suggest rose hips might also have value for osteoarthritis, the prevention of cancer and possibly, treatment or prevention of kidney stones formation. However, larger studies are needed to be able to draw any reliable conclusions.