Family Name: Rosaceae
Botanical Name(s): Rosa canina
Popular Name(s): Brier Rose, Dogberry, Dog Rose, Eglantine Gall,
Hip Fruit, Hogseed, Sweet Brier, Wild Brier, Witches' Brier
Parts Used: Fruit
Habitat: Brier hip is native to Europe, northwest Africa and
western Asia.
Description: Brier hip is a deciduous shrub growing to a height
of 1-5 m. Its numerous stems are covered with sharp spines and prickles.
The leaves are odd- pinnate, with 5-7 leaflets which are opposite,
ovate, acute and hairy beneath. The flowers are usually pale pink, with
5 petals and have a diameter of 4-6 cm. Its oblong, scarlet to
orange-red fruit contains many one-seeded achenes.
Uses: Brier hip has astringent, carminative and diuretic
properties. It is recommended for kidney or bladder inflammation and is
used in stomach disorders. A decoction of achenes is used as a beverage
tea.
