Wild Roses, Scurvy Sailors, And How Their Legacy Lives On In Our Rosehip Oil And Rose Clay Mask

Across the prairies, forests and coastlines of North America, native wild roses grew long before European ships appeared on the horizon. These roses, such as Rosa carolina, Rosa virginiana, Rosa nutkana and Rosa woodsii, were not bred for beauty. They were shaped by wind, winter and time. Their true treasure was not the flower at all. It was the bright red rosehip left behind once the petals fell.
Indigenous communities understood the importance of these fruits. Through long winters, rosehips were dried, brewed into teas, turned into syrups and added to food as a source of strength. Rosehips are naturally rich in vitamin C. They hold one of the highest concentrations found in any wild plant across the continent. For generations this small fruit supported wellness and resilience when fresh food was scarce.

When sailors arrived during the age of exploration, they faced a deadly problem. Months at sea meant no fresh food, which led to scurvy. Indigenous knowledge offered a solution. Sailors learned to use dried rosehips from North American shores to create teas that supported their health during long voyages. Rosehips were light to carry and remained nutrient rich even after drying. As a result, they became a simple and reliable protection at sea.
This quiet plant became part of maritime history and a bridge between cultures. The wisdom of how to use rosehips travelled across the Atlantic just as the ships did.

Roses at Mingle Hill Farm

Today the same fruit continues to offer nourishment for the skin. At Mingle Hill we use organically grown and carefully processed rosehips to create our Rosehip Oil. It is packed with antioxidants and naturally occurring vitamin C that supports a healthy glow and helps the skin feel soothed and renewed. Our Rose Clay Mask is blended with rosehip powder to brighten, calm and refresh the complexion. These products honour the long history of this plant. They carry forward knowledge that has supported people for centuries.
A humble wild rose once protected sailors on an open sea. It still protects us today through gentle skincare that comes directly from the land.

Rosehip Oil

CA$17.00

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Rose Clay Mask

CA$30.00

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Soap

CA$12.50

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