Rosehip Extract + Vitamin C Tablets

Mechanism

Rosehip are the small fruits that appear on a rose plant after blossoming. They look similar to tiny pomegranates or tomatoes, growing at the tip of the stem, and are red or orange in color. The immune system can contribute to rheumatic diseases. An inflammatory cytokine called Interleukin 1-Beta (IL-1ß) causes cartilage cells to produce proteins that digest and break down joint tissue. In moderation, this process encourages cell turnover, but in excess, this process contributes to long-term joint tissue degradation, which is what causes joint problems. While Rosehip doesn't reduce IL-1ß levels in the blood, it interferes with its ability to activate catabolic proteins. Rosehip is also able to reduce chemotaxis, which is the transportation of immune cells into tissue. This serves as both an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive mechanism.
Uses: Rosehip alleviates joint pain through its immunosuppressive effects.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps support the immune system and helps neutralize free radicals in the body. It is required in the synthesis of collagen in connective tissue, neurotransmitters, steroid hormones, carnitine, and conversion of cholesterol to bile acids and enhances iron bioavailability and for healthy skin. Ascorbic acid is a great antioxidant and helps protect the body against pollutants.
Vitamin C is used as a nutritional supplement for its antiscorbutic properties. Use of rose hips for their vitamin C content, in supportive therapy for cases of this vitamin deficiency is rational. Because a significant amount of the natural vitamin C in rose hips may be destroyed during drying and processing, therefore, some form of vitamin C is added to them.
Vitamin C's important functions is acting as an antioxidant, protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage. When LDL is damaged, the cholesterol appears to lead to heart disease, but vitamin C acts as an important antioxidant protector of LDL. Vitamin C may also protect against heart disease by reducing the stiffness of arteries and the tendency of platelets to coagulate in the vein. The antioxidant properties also protect smokers from the harmful effects of free radicals.
Uses: Antioxidant and helps protect the body against pollutants.

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Vitamin C is absorbed in the small intestine via active transport; rosehip polyphenols absorbed variably.
• Distribution: Vitamin C widely distributed in tissues, especially adrenal glands and leukocytes.
• Metabolism: Vitamin C metabolized to oxalate; rosehip compounds undergo hepatic metabolism.
• Elimination: Vitamin C excreted in urine; rosehip metabolites eliminated via urine and bile.
• Half-life: Vitamin C ~8–12 hours depending on dose.

Side Effects

• Mild gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea)
• Heartburn or abdominal cramps
• Kidney stone risk with prolonged high-dose Vitamin C
• Rare allergic reactions to rosehip extract

Contraindication

• Hypersensitivity to rosehip or Vitamin C
• Patients with hemochromatosis (risk of iron overload)
• Severe renal impairment or history of kidney stones
• Use with caution in pregnancy and lactation

Interaction

• High doses of Vitamin C may reduce efficacy of anticoagulants (warfarin).
• Rosehip may interact with antidiabetic and antihypertensive medications.
• Vitamin C enhances iron absorption, caution with iron overload conditions.

Warning and Precautions

• Excess Vitamin C may cause gastric irritation or kidney stones
• Consult a doctor before use if you have chronic conditions
• Possible interactions with anticoagulants or iron supplements

Dosage

As directed by the Dietician.