The therapeutic potential of rosehip in osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is characterized by changes in metabolism, structure, and functioning of joints as well as surrounding tissues. The pathomechanism of this disease is associated with increased secretion of inflammatory mediators. An important role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis is also played by the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway, which is a protein complex that can induce transcription of the catabolic enzyme genes and stimulate the secretion of inflammatory mediators. The pharmacotherapy of osteoarthritis is based mainly on the reduction of inflammation. One of the sources of active substances with anti-inflammatory activity is the rosehip of Rosa canina L. (Rosaceae). This raw material contains, among others, GOPO (galactolipid), polyunsaturated fatty acids ω-3 and ω-6 PUFAs: α-linolenic and linoleic acids, as well as triterpenic acids such as betulinic acid, oleanolic acid, and ursolic acid. The main active compound responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity of Rosa canina is GOPO. This substance has an inhibitory effect on the production of NO, PGE2 and cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12 by human blood cells. GOPO also reduces the gene expression of matrix metalloproteinases, aggrecanases, TNF-α, and NF-κB. Therefore, the view aims are to characterize rosehip and to present the results of current studies on the anti-inflammatory activity of active compounds contained in the Rosa canina. According to the literature review, the results of in vitro studies show the ability to reduce the level of inflammatory mediators released in the course of osteoarthritis by the active substances of rosehip. The results of in vitro studies show an increase in joint mobility, pain relief, and reduced intake of painkillers during treatment with rosehip powder. Obtaining the above-mentioned therapeutic effects requires the use of the raw material for at least 3 months. Moreover, the most common side effects during the therapy, which were mainly related to the gastrointestinal tract, were described.