Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Dog rose (Rosa canina) has a long history of traditional use in supporting immune function and treating colds and flu-like illnesses, including influenza. The primary medicinal part of the plant is its fruit, known as rose hips, which are rich in vitamin C and various polyphenols. Historically, during times when citrus fruits were scarce, rose hips were collected and made into syrups, teas, and jams to boost immunity, particularly in children and during wartime shortages. Folk medicine in Europe frequently recommended rose hip preparations to prevent or treat respiratory infections, including influenza.

Modern scientific validation for the use of dog rose in treating influenza specifically is limited. While rose hips are indeed a significant source of vitamin C, which is known to support immune function, clinical trials directly evaluating rose hip preparations for influenza are scarce. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest immunomodulatory and antioxidant activities of dog rose extracts, but these findings have not been robustly translated into clinical recommendations for influenza. Most evidence supporting its use remains based on its high nutrient content and historical anecdotal use rather than rigorously controlled scientific studies. Thus, while dog rose continues to be used traditionally in herbal medicine for flu support, the strength of scientific evidence is modest, justifying a rating of 2 on the evidence scale.

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