Phytochemical Evaluation of Wild-Grown Rosehips from Native Greek Rosa canina Genotypes
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Rosehip (the “fruit” of Rosa canina L, commonly known as dog rose) is an emerging functional food, yet native Greek populations remain under-explored. This study screened 76 wild genotypes from Northern Greece for radical scavenging activity (% RSA), total phenolic content (TPC), and ascorbic acid (AsA). The results showed remarkable antioxidant potential (RSA > 70%), with TPC ranging from 1.02 to 35.96 mg g−1 DW, and AsA between 0.72 and 3.57 mg g−1 FW. Stepwise multiple regression analysis identified altitude as the primary predictor for RSA (adjusted R2 = 0.139, p = 0.001) and latitude as a significant modulator for TPC (p = 0.034), reflecting subtle environmental adaptations over a robust genetic baseline. HPLC-PDA-MS characterization revealed a complex profile dominated by procyanidins, catechin derivatives, flavanonols (eriodictyol conjugates), and flavonol 3-O-glycosides (mainly quercetin hexosides and pentosides). Exploratory multivariate analysis (PCA) visualized high phenotypic plasticity and identified elite chemotypes (e.g., RPK-5, RCZ-12). Notably, the Rhodopi population exhibited the most extensive multidimensional dispersion despite its geographically restricted collection radius, suggesting a diverse local genetic reservoir. These findings establish a phytochemical map of Greek dog rose germplasm, providing essential criteria for selecting high-quality genotypes for future domestication and exploitation in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical sectors.
Source: Nutraceuticals
Institution: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Language: English
Subfield: Biochemistry
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,207
OpenAlex ID: W7162118694