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Rose
(Rosa species)
wild rose
Description:
Perennials, that may form thickets, 2-3 feet tall, or clusters
of large bushes, depending on species and growing conditions.
All wild species have a single row of petals, usually 5, with
many typical yellow stamens, and will be smaller than cultivated
hybrids. The color is basically pink. Stems are thorny, slightly
waxy and sticky. The leaves are pinnate with 5-9 leaflets. Flowers
mature into hips (fruit) which turns from green, yellow, orange,
and after a frost, to dark red. Found at all altitudes, mostly
in mountainous areas, above 10,000 feet.
EDIBLE,
Medicinal: Used as an aromatic, cosmetic, culinary and for
craft uses. It is a aperient, astringent, and stomachic. An infusion
of the dried flowers or buds, is taken for diarrhea, headache,
earache, dizziness, blood purifier, mouthwash, eyewash, a heart
and nerve tonic. The fruits (rose hips), gathered after the first
frost, make a pleasant, tart tea, which is high in
Vit. C. To preserve the rose hips, gather and chill. Remove the
blossom end, stem,and leaves and wash quickly. Bring 1 1/2 cups
water, add 1 cup hips, simmer 15 minutes. Let stand 24 hrs, strain
off extract liquid, bring to boil, add 2 tablespoons lemon juice
for each pint. Pour into jars and seal. 2 teaspoons should supply
an adults daily need for Vit.C. Refrigerate after opening.
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