Abstract
Today the aromatic and medicinal plants have gained more recognition as dietary supplements because they are characterized as natural, safe, eco-friendly, and possess many health-promoting properties, making their ongoing usage part of an emerging field at the cutting edge of science. Rosehip (Rosa canina), a medicinal plant, is widely known as a valuable source of various nutrients and biologically active substances, mostly polyphenols and vitamin C. The chemical composition differs depending on the climate, growing region, cultivation practice, maturity, soil type, harvesting and storage conditions. Over the years, significant variations in vitamins (106-967 mg/100 g), minerals (Fe 59.40-72.90 ppm; Zn 3.69-4.51 ppm; Ca 133.30-146.70 ppm), essential fatty acids (33.8% - 49.7% α-linolenic), phenols (9982 GAE - mg/100 g), antioxidants (lutein, zeaxanthin) among other bioactive components and nutrients have been reported by various researchers. Both in vivo and in vitro studies have shown that rosehip used at an appropriate dose in broilers and laying hens dietary feed, could have some beneficial effects.