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My grandfather had a simple habit that he followed every autumn – he picked rose hips and made homemade liqueur from them. He never suffered from heart or digestive problems and always said that this natural drink gave him strength for the whole winter period. And he was right – rose hips are among the richest natural sources of vitamin C and other beneficial substances that support immunity and overall health.
Why rose hips are so valuable
The common rose hip, also known as the dog rose, is one of the most common shrubs in the Czech countryside. In spring and summer it delights with delicate flowers, but its true treasure comes in autumn – bright red to orange hips. These are not only a decorative feature of the landscape, but literally a natural pharmacy.
They contain high amounts of vitamin C, B vitamins, vitamins K and E, flavonoids, carotenoids, and minerals such as calcium and iron.
Because of this:
- they strengthen the immune system and protect the body from colds,
- they act as antioxidants and slow down cellular aging,
- they support heart and vascular function,
- they improve digestion and the condition of the intestinal microflora,
- they help with problems such as varicose veins or periodontitis.
Regular consumption of rose hip products therefore brings a wide range of health benefits.
Rose hip liqueur – a traditional recipe from our grandmothers
Besides the well-known rose hip tea, hips can also be used in a less traditional way – for example to make homemade rose hip liqueur. This drink combines the beneficial substances from rose hips with the stimulating effects of alcohol and sugar, creating a natural elixir that strengthens the body and provides energy.
Ingredients
- 200 g fresh rose hips,
- 300 ml clear high-proof alcohol (slivovice, hruškovice, vodka, or another quality distillate),
- 5 tablespoons sugar,
- 5 tablespoons water.
Preparation
- Pick the rose hips in clean areas, far from roads and polluted environments.
- Wash them, remove the stems and any remaining petals, and either blend the fruits or cut them open and scoop out the seeds.
- Place the prepared hips into a sealable jar and pour in the alcohol. Let them macerate for approximately two weeks. Shake the jar every day.
- After two weeks, strain the mixture through a cloth or dense gauze.
- Prepare a syrup of sugar and water in a pot, stir in the rose hip macerate and mix well.
- Pour the finished liqueur into bottles and let it rest for at least a week.
The result is a smooth drink that you can take by the teaspoonful as a supportive remedy to strengthen the body during cold days.
How rose hip liqueur affects health
Thanks to its high vitamin C content, the liqueur supports immunity, protecting against colds and the flu. B vitamins and flavonoids benefit the nervous system and help manage stress. Alcohol here acts not only as a preservative but also as a means that facilitates the absorption of active substances.
It also has a positive effect on digestion and intestinal functions, which is why rose hip liqueur was traditionally recommended for stomach ailments. However, it should be noted that it is an alcoholic beverage and therefore not suitable for children, pregnant, or breastfeeding women.
Summary
Rose hips are one of the most valuable gifts of the autumn nature. They contain huge amounts of vitamin C, minerals, and antioxidants that support immunity, protect the heart, and improve digestion. Homemade rose hip liqueur is a traditional recipe that combines the natural power of rose hips with simple preparation. If you are looking for a natural way to boost your health while enjoying something tasty, try this liqueur according to our ancestors’ recipe.
