In the UK, rose hips (or
heps) were collected during and after the
Second World War for processing into
rose hip syrup, which was given to children and
pregnant and nursing mothers. Rose hips were also used by the kids in my first school as an
itching powder substitute. Once the skin and flesh are removed from the hip, the seeds can be pressed down the neck of some poor victim. With hilarious consequences.
I also have to say that rose hips make an excellent dry, slightly rosé wine. As you'd expect, really.