Geranium (Pelargonium)

Pelargonium sidoides DC sometimes called geranium is a perennial flowering plant native to Lesotho and some parts of South Africa. The plant is widely used by local communities as a traditional medicine for curing various ailments including diarrhoea, colic, gastritis, tuberculosis, cough, hepatic disorders, menstrual complaints and gonorrhoea. In laboratory studies, this herb was shown to kill bacteria, viruses, and stimulate the immune system. Human studies show that it can reduce the symptoms of common cold and bronchitis.

Whole Rosehips

Inside rosehips, there are small seeds about 10-50 seeds per hip. These rosehip seeds are high in polyunsaturated fats thereby supporting healthy skin membrane and protecting the skin from inflammatory compounds, such as ultraviolet (UV) rays, cigarette smoke, and pollution. There is an oil cold pressed from the rosehip seeds, this oil has unique nutrient profile that gives it excellent tissue regeneration properties and can reduce the appearance of pigmentation, scars, sun damage and signs of ageing.

When the dried rosehips are crushed, they give two products: rosehip shells and rosehip seeds. The rosehip shells are the red palatable out parts of the rosehips. These shells can be used to make herbal teas, jams, jellies, syrups, soup, and beverages. Rosehip shells are high in vitamin C and also contain other vitamins such as Vit A, D and E. Rosehip herbal tea is known to prevent urinary bladder infections, and assist in treating dizziness and headaches.

Rose hip is the fruit of the rose plant. It is typically red to orange in colour although ranges from dark purple to black in some species. Rose hips get their red-orange color from carotenoid pigments known as lycopene and beta carotene. These pigments have been shown to promote skin and eye health. Rose hips begin to form after pollination of flowers in spring or early summer and ripen in late summer through autumn. It is widely known as a valuable source of polyphenols and Vitamin C. The health benefits of rose hips have been attributed to its wide range of bioactive compounds that led to its application in various industries including cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical.