More red berries today; this berry being the fruit of a rose bush, better known as rose hips, literally bursting with seeds, pictured here spilling out of their bright red casing.

Not only do rose hips provide colour to the landscape at a time of year when much of nature is dead, dying or hibernating, but the fruit also contains multiple vitamins that can benefit our health.

At the height of their orange to bright-red ripeness, the hips are rich in vitamins A, C, D and E, essential fatty acids and flavanoids.

Benefits include increasing regeneration of red blood cells, introduction of beneficial bacteria to the gut, relieving exhaustion and even as a mild laxative or diuretic, when taken internally.

The use of rose hip preparations externally can aid the healing process of damaged skin, reduce scarring, heal wounds and soothe skin complaints such as eczema or psoriasis.

Of course, not all species are equally beneficial; methods of harvesting, drying and storage as well as climate/general environment all play a role in the retention, or loss, of nutritional value.

Exif Data
Focal Length: 4.1mm; Exposure Time: 1/160 sec; Flash: Off;
F-Number: F/4; ISO: 80; Metering Mode: Spot;