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It can be easy to think that our obsession with skincare is a relatively new phenomenon, but in fact, we humans have been prioritising our skin health for thousands of years. Just look at Queen Elizabeth I who would cover her face with lead paint (not recommended!) or Cleopatra who would reportedly bathe in the milk of 700 donkeys!
But skincare wasn’t just for nobility. People from all walks of life have forever been turning to natural remedies to boost their skin health and appearance, with plants such as rosehip being a familiar favourite. But what is rosehip and why has it remained such a popular skincare ingredient? Let’s find out.
What is Rosehip?
Rosehip, also called rose haw or rose hep, is the fruit of several species of rose plants. It resembles a large berry, most commonly red or orange, but less commonly purple or even black. Throughout history, it has been used for a number of applications, including the creation of medicines, food products, and of course, skincare.
An Ancient Medicinal Ingredient
According to ancient texts, the ancient Chinese, Greeks, Romans and Persians utilised rosehip for its medicinal qualities. For example, rosehip was reportedly used to treat toothache, stomach complaints, and even fevers and coughs. There is also some evidence that rosehip may benefit joint pain and stiffness!
During World War 2, when the supply of certain foods was limited, rosehips (which are high in Vitamin C) were even ground down to make a syrup which was fed to children to prevent scurvy! In fact, gram for gram, rosehips contain approximately eight times the amount of vitamin C than oranges, making them an excellent food source. They are also rich in vitamins A, B, E, and K and a number of other valuable nutrients.
Today, rosehip remains a popular ingredient in products such as tea, jams, and of course, skincare!
The Skincare Benefits of Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil, - an oil pressed from the seeds of the rosehip fruit - has become a popular ingredient in the skincare world, with various celebrities endorsing its benefits. Its high nutrient content makes it a great addition to your skincare routine and supports healthy, protected skin. But let’s take a closer look at what makes this ingredient so popular.
Boosts Hydration and Moisture
Rosehip oil is an excellent source of essential fatty acids such as omega-3 (linolenic acid) and omega-6 (linoleic acid). These compounds help to protect the skin’s barrier, allowing it to lock in more moisture. With the help of vast amounts of vitamin C, these fatty acids help to boost and maintain hydration.
Discover the hydration benefits for yourself with our Age-Defying Hydrating CBD Moisturiser, infused with Rosehip oil and other tried-and-tested skincare ingredients.
Increases Collagen Production
The fatty acids and vitamins in rosehip oil may also help to boost your skin’s elasticity, making for firmer, younger-looking skin. Studies have shown that consistent use of rosehip oil was associated with improvements in the appearance of wrinkles as well as a boost to moisture levels and skin elasticity.
Protects Skin from Free Radicals
As an excellent source of antioxidants, rosehip oil could help to protect your skin from harmful free radicals. Free radicals in the environment can cause damage to the skin, resulting in premature ageing, breakouts, and other worrisome symptoms. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to prevent this. Discover the benefits for yourself with our Multivitamin Age-Defying Recovery Serum!
Brightens Skin and Corrects Dark Spots
The high vitamin and omega fatty acid content and astringent properties of rosehip oil help to tighten pores and soothe dry patches, giving a healthy glow and brightening dull skin. Despite being an oil, it is also suitable for all skin types, encouraging hydration and regeneration while slowing down sebum production.
Calms Inflammation and Promotes Healing
Vitamin E and anthocyanin found in rosehip oil could help to soothe irritation and discomfort - a benefit that could prove helpful for individuals dealing with eczema, rosacea, and other inflammatory skin problems. Moreover, studies show that rosehip oil may help to reduce the appearance of scars.
Conclusion
Rosehip oil is an ancient ingredient that has been utilised wherever this impressive fruit grows. It was used by the Ancient Greeks, the medieval Britons, and even 20th-century war-struck Europeans. The health credentials of the plant as a food source and medicine are well documented, but it is rosehip’s many skincare benefits that have placed it in the area of public consciousness in recent years.
At Honey Heaven, we aim to harness the power of nature to develop truly effective and nourishing products for our customers. It should come as no surprise, then, that we have selected rosehip oil as a key ingredient in our range of skincare products. Discover the amazing potential of rosehip for yourself by browsing our full Green Therapy CBD skincare range!