I’ve only just discovered the wonderful versatility of rosehips, specifically within the realm of my skincare routine. My batch of homemade rose hip is finally ready, so I wanted to share how simple it is to make. Don’t be shy if you’re not quite sure what a rosehip actually is, I didn’t know myself until recently!
So, what are rosehips?
The “hip” of the rose is the fruit of the rose bush. Yeah, who knew roses had fruit? If you let the rose naturally bloom and the petals die and fall off, instead of pruning dying flowers, the plump berry-like hip is what remains. Inside holds seeds and a little bit of fruit flesh. Shown above are some dried and withered rosehips from my garden (far past their prime) and alternatively in the jar, the dried preserved rosehips (very usable).
Rosehips occur on all rose plants, but Dog Roses (Rosa Canina) are the species most commonly used in harvesting the bright orangey red hips to eat. Yes, you can eat these little gems! The hips are used for herbal teas, jams, jellies, syrup, pies, bread, and wine and they offer a multitude of nutrients.
What are the health benefits of rose hips?
Most notably rosehips are packed with vitamin C. Because of this unique trait, English citizens during WWII were encouraged to forage for wild rose hips and make a medicinal syrup since citrus fruits were so scare during wartime. Additionally rosehips contain vitamin A and antioxidants – all good things for your insides, and your outsides (I’m talking about your skin). Rosehip infused oil treats burns, scars, acne, and dry skin.
DIY Rose Hip Oil
Beauty oils are totally “in vogue” right now, as my mother would say. In fact, Victoria Secret model, Miranda Kerr, claims using rosehip oil is her beautiful skin “secret”. Since I’m no supermodel, I find making my own is definitely a more economical, and sustainable option than buying it at the beauty counter. This simple method will yield a few ounces of liquid youth for your face (something I’m beginning to value more and more as I approach my 30’s, yikes!).
You’ll need:
- organic rosehips
- jojoba oil
- a glass jar (for infusing)
- a dark glass jar or bottle (for final storage)
- some patience
You can make the oil by using a one to one ratio of hips to carrier oil, I prefer jojoba. I used this small mason jar to fill half with hips and half with jojoba oil. Keep the concoction stowed away from light, like in your medicine cabinet. Let it infuse for 6 weeks – I told you some patience was needed!
When the oil has taken on an amber orange hue you can strain out the hips and save the oil in a dark glass dropper bottle. I make small batches to ensure freshness, but it should last about a year. Now it’s ready to use on it’s own, or in a blend of other oils.
Before bed, massage a drop directly onto your clean face. It should brighten, moisturize and even your skin tone. Ready to give it a try?
