Evidence supporting the use of: Rose hips
For the body system: Gums

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Synopsis

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

Rose hips, the fruit of the wild rose (Rosa canina), have a long history of traditional use for supporting oral health, including the gums. Traditionally, rose hips have been valued for their high vitamin C content, a nutrient essential for collagen synthesis and gum tissue integrity. Historical records indicate that, before the advent of synthetic vitamin C, rose hips were used to prevent and treat scurvy—a disease marked by bleeding gums and poor wound healing—especially during times when fresh fruits and vegetables were scarce.

There is limited direct scientific evidence specifically linking rose hips to improved gum health in human clinical trials. However, the theoretical basis is that vitamin C deficiency is associated with poor gum health, and rose hips are a rich natural source of this vitamin. Beyond vitamin C, rose hips also contain polyphenols and other antioxidants, which may offer some general anti-inflammatory effects. Despite these properties, modern research on rose hips has focused more on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and joint health benefits, rather than specific effects on gum health.

In summary, the use of rose hips to support the gums is primarily justified by traditional use and their nutritional profile, particularly vitamin C content, rather than robust clinical data specific to periodontal outcomes.

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