Rose Hips are rich in vitamin C.  Some varieties of rose hips have more than twice as much vitamin C as citrus fruits.  During World War II Britians were encouraged to cultivate the rose hips in their Victory Gardens as a much needed source of vitamin C.  Also, in ancient  England during times of famine rose hips were also used for food.

Rose hips can be used to make rosewater.  Click here to go to that recipe. 

However, due to the high vitamin and mineral content of rose hips (vitamins A, B-complex, C, D, E and K and minerals calcium, iron, manganese, sulfur, potassium and zinc) rose hips also makes a great tea providing plenty of protection from germs and the associated colds and diseases brought on by those germs. 

Remember, freshly boiled water contains the most oxygen and brings the best taste to the tea.  Invest in a tea pot that whistles so that you always know when to pour your tea water.  

Aluminum and copper lessens the potency of vitamin C so use a ceramic or glass kettle if possible to brew the water for this tea. 

Click here to go to our page on how to brew the perfect cup of tea.

To follow are two of my favorite rose hips tea recipes:

• For a double dose of vitamin C brew 1 tablespoon of dried rose hips with two or three whole cloves.  Strain before drinking and garnish your cup with a slice of orange.
• For a good night's rest brew 1 tablespoon of dried rose hips with 1/2 teaspoon valerian root.  Add a pinch of dried lavender flowers.

If you do not like the taste of valerian root subsitute 1/2 teaspoon chamomile flowers for the valerian root.  Chamomile flowers also have an old folk reputation for relaxing the mind and encouraging sleep.