Rose Hips

What are macaques? 

Macaws are the small fruits hidden in the flowers of a wild rose known as Rosa canina or maces. The Latin name comes from the belief that maces can cure rabid dog bites. Maces grows mainly in Europe, but also in parts of Africa and Asia. Rosa canica belongs to the genus Rosa in the Risaceae family, which contains over 100 species.  


Maces have an entire reputation and history behind them, dating from prehistoric times to the present day. The pseudofruits are harvested from August until September, the period when the macaws contain the highest amount of vitamin C, before the arrival of autumn, when they change colour to red-orange.

 

What are the properties of macaques? 

Inside the mache fruit are lots of small, edible seeds that are a great source of nutrients. Two tablespoons of macese (approx. 16 grams) provide: 

• 26 calories; 
• 6 grams of carbohydrates; 
• 4% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A; 
• 3% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin B5; 
• 76% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C; 
• 6% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin E. 

The reddish-orange colour of macaws is due to carotenoid pigments, known as lycopene and beta carotene. They are also rich in disease-fighting antioxidants such as vitamin C, catechin, quercetin and ellagic acid. In addition, vitamin C plays a key role in collagen synthesis and immune health. 

However, the nutrient content of macaws depends to a large extent on soil and growing conditions, processing techniques and species. For example, many varieties of macese are processed with water and heat, which can significantly lower their vitamin C levels.