Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Rose hips, the fruit of the wild rose plant (Rosa canina), have been traditionally used in folk medicine for a variety of ailments, including joint pain. More recently, scientific research has explored their efficacy in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis. Several clinical studies and meta-analyses suggest that standardized rose hip powder, particularly those preparations containing the active compound GOPO (glycoside of mono and diglycerol), may have a modest effect in reducing pain and improving joint function in people with arthritis, including RA. The proposed mechanism involves anti-inflammatory properties, attributed to the high content of vitamin C, polyphenols, and galactolipids, which are thought to inhibit leukocyte migration and reduce inflammatory markers.

Notably, a 2008 randomized, placebo-controlled trial published in Phytomedicine reported significant improvements in pain and disability scores among patients with RA who took rose hip preparations compared to placebo. Meta-analyses have also found modest benefits, though effect sizes are generally small, and methodological quality varies. While the evidence does not make rose hips a replacement for standard RA therapies, it does support their adjunctive use for symptom control. Side effects are generally mild, such as gastrointestinal discomfort. Current guidelines do not list rose hips as a primary therapy, but scientific validation justifies their role as a complementary option for some patients.

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Other ingredients used for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Other health conditions supported by rose hips

Products containing rose hips

Douglas Laboratories C-Max ®
Vitabase Chewable Vitamin C
Vitabase Vitamin C