Rosa canina and Cancer: Which Evidence?

Introduction

Rosa canina L. is a plant of the Rosaceae family commonly known for being the ancestor of cultivated roses. It is frequently found as a wild plant in almost all the temperate areas of the Northern hemisphere, and it is used in numerous traditional medicines. R canina is used for respiratory problems, gastrointestinal diseases, kidney stones, hypertension and diabetes, osteoarthritis, and muscle and osteoarticular pain.

Methods

A literature search was performed using specific search terms, such as rose, Rosa canina, rose hip, rosehip, dog rose, wild rose, ethnopharmacology, traditional use, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cancer, anticancer, cytotoxicity, antiproliferative, and apoptosis. Studies on ethnotraditional and pharmacological values were retrieved as well as on isolated compounds or specific extracts on R canina.

Results

The use of R canina is based on the phytochemical profile, rich in phenolic compounds and ascorbic acid, which guarantee remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Tables on phytochemical composition, phenolics and steroids, volatile compounds, and representative studies on the pharmacological activities related to cancer of R canina were reported.

Conclusions

This review analyses the phytotherapeutic properties of R canina with a specific emphasis on the anticancer effect in preclinical models, while exploring the mechanisms of action of its phytochemical compounds. In addition, this work paves the way for the exploration of the potential benefits of this plant in human oncology.