The ocean buckthorn – scientific name Hippophae rhamnoides – is a thorny shrub native to China and a few parts of Europe. It belongs to the Eleagnaceae family and is characterised by its woody branches composed of elongated leaves and small thorns. It also has flowers in greenish tones and small spherical fruits with a striking vivid orange color.
The latter are harvested after they reach a very good degree of maturity and are subsequently used for gastronomic and medicinal purposes. Actually, an oil could be obtained from its pulp and seeds which has several interesting applications as a natural treatment and cosmetic. In this text, we’ll let you know more about its properties.
The fundamental energetic compounds of sea buckthorn
Before detailing the uses and advantages of sea buckthorn, it’s value highlighting its fundamental components. As compiled by a publication within the journal Antioxidants , these comprise the next:
- Vitamins A, B, C, K, and E
- Essential minerals (iron, magnesium, copper, zinc, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, nitrogen, and manganese)
- Phytosterols
- Essential fatty acids, akin to palmitic, linoleic, and alpha-linolenic
- Amino acids (threonine, valine, methionine, leucine, lysine, tryptophan, isoleucine, phenylalanine, amongst others)
- Phenolic compounds, akin to glycosides, flavonoids, and phenolic acids
- Mucilages
We expect you might be desirous about reading this, too: Black Truffle: What Is It and What Are Its Health Advantages?
Sea buckthorn health advantages
In traditional medicine, sea buckthorn leaves, flowers, seeds, and berries have been used as a complement to mitigate various health problems. And while most uses are supported only by anecdotal evidence, some research suggests that it does have potential within the prevention and treatment of some diseases. So, what are its potential advantages?
Sea buckthorn helps fight fatigue
As a result of its wealthy supply of vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids, sea buckthorn is used as a natural complement to fight fatigue. Specifically, its berries are used to scale back fatigue and muscle weakness.
As well as, a study reported within the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture reported that aqueous extracts of the leaves of this plant have the potential to enhance physical fitness and protect against oxidative damage brought on by exhaustive exercise.
For now, more studies are needed. Nonetheless, it’s certain that parts of this plant are nutritious and will be useful as revitalizers.
It helps support heart health
The essential fatty acids, flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals in sea buckthorn fruit are useful to heart health. Research reported in Lipids in Health and Disease linked its intake with increased levels of high-density lipoproteins, i.e., the “good” cholesterol.
In healthy people, these lipids are linked to heart protection. As well as, its antioxidants help inhibit the negative effects of oxidative stress, which not only increase the extent of inflammation but are linked to chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system, akin to atherosclerosis.
It has positive effects on vaginal atrophy
Vaginal atrophy or dryness is a typical symptom amongst women who reach the menopausal stage. Its appearance is expounded to the decrease in estrogen levels, which decreases the natural lubrication of the vagina.
Although there are several treatments against this symptom – akin to vaginal moisturizers or hormone substitute therapy -, the consumption of supplements with phytoestrogens also helps. Regarding this, a 2014 study reported that sea buckthorn oil helped improve vaginal health in postmenopause.
The researchers suggest that the phytoestrogens on this ingredient have potential as a complement for estrogen substitute. Nonetheless, more evidence is lacking.
It helps take care of hair
The oil obtained from sea buckthorn concentrates lipids, amino acids, and micronutrients that strengthen hair health. A study shared in the journal Antioxidants suggests that that is an ingredient widely utilized in the cosmetic industry, especially in hair treatments.
It’s really helpful for its ability to scale back excess oil on the scalp and to guard against damage or breakage of the strands. Actually, it’s a typical ingredient in several brands of shampoos.
It protects skin health
There are several explanation why sea buckthorn protects skin health. First, its abundant antioxidant content mitigates the negative impact of free radicals, which reduces the tendency to premature aging.
Second, its anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and regenerative properties help take care of the skin barrier. Even, as detailed in a study in Lipids in Health and Diseaseit decreases the danger of skin disorders.
Studies detail that sea buckthorn oil serves as an adjunct to combat pimples, eczema, and certain skin infections. It’s also a common ingredient in anti-aging cosmetics.
Other possible advantages of sea buckthorn
As a result of its richness in bioactive compoundsit’s not surprising that sea buckthorn is linked to other health advantages. Nonetheless, it must be noted that that is merely a complement and never a treatment of first selection.
Evidence continues to be limited, so it must be used with caution. Allow us to take a look at other uses:
- Digestive disorders: As a result of its mucilage and antioxidant content, sea buckthorn is used as an ally for digestive health. It’s often used against indigestion, gastritis, diarrhea, and constipation.
- Respiratory health: The vitamin C, flavonoids and minerals on this ingredient strengthen the immune system and help reduce the danger of respiratory infections, akin to influenza.
- Liver disease: Although not a first-line treatment for liver disorders, research suggests that sea buckthorn has pharmacological potential against liver fibrosis. As well as, it serves as a hepatoprotective agent.
- Antitumor potential: The phytoconstituents of this plant are linked to an antitumor and chemopreventive effect. Nonetheless, more evidence is required.
- Obese and obesity: Even though it’s not a miracle complement against extra weight, its nutrients are positive to complement the food regimen. Studies link its properties to the prevention of obesity induced by a high-fat food regimen and metabolic disorders.
The risks and contraindications of sea buckthorn
The intake of sea buckthorn as a form of food is usually protected for most individuals. Actually, supplements derived from the shrub and its fruits are inclined to be well tolerated.
Despite this, some people may experience unwanted reactions:
- Patients with hypertension are in danger for headaches, dizziness, and heart rhythm disturbances after ingesting sea buckthorn supplements.
- Topical use may cause rash or allergy in individuals with sensitive skin. It’s essential to do a small patch test before using it in its entirety.
- Oral consumption of sea buckthorn oil may cause digestive discomfort. In that case, its use must be discontinued.
- It shouldn’t be consumed concurrently with anticoagulants, antidiabetics, drugs for autoimmune disorders, or medications for liver disease.
- It’s contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It also needs to not be ingested by patients with chronic diseases, unless authorized by a physician.
Sea buckthorn supplements usually are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Subsequently, they must be purchased from a good store and the label must be checked.
Sea buckthorn natural remedies
Sea buckthorn remedies are prepared from each its leaves and fruits. The supplements available are frequently in the shape of capsules, syrups, teas, tinctures, oils, and topical ointments. The mode of use may vary from one presentation to a different; due to this fact it’s crucial to seek the advice of the label.
In fact, at a general level, there are some consumption recommendations. These are detailed below:
- An infusion of dehydrated sea buckthorn fruits: 2 to three cups per day (500 to 750 milliliters per day).
- A natural juice using sea buckthorn fruits: one glass per day (200 milliliters).
- A tincture: 20 to 50 drops, divided into 3 doses per day.
- Oil: 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters). For external use, mix it with a carrier oil (olive, coconut, almond, etc.).
Like this text? Chances are you’ll also wish to read: The Health Advantages of Water with a Tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar
An infusion with sea buckthorn
The infusion of sea buckthorn is good to extend your energy levels and strengthen your defenses. It even serves as an adjunct to support the treatment of anemia.
The ingredients are as follows:
- 50 grams of sea buckthorn berries
- 30 grams of blueberries
- 10 grams of horsetail
- 500 milliliters of water
Follow this step-by-step guide:
- Bring the water to a boil and, on the subject of a boil, add the remaining ingredients.
- Cover the infusion and let it steep for 10 to quarter-hour.
- Divide it to take 2 or 3 servings a day.
Did you recognize that sea buckthorn fruits are also utilized in gastronomy? They could be prepared as jams, smoothies, fruit purees, sauces for meats, amongst others.
What to recollect about sea buckthorn
In natural medicine, sea buckthorn is valued for its abundant content of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and proteins, amongst other nutrients. It’s used to guard heart health, skin, and digestive system.
Nonetheless, the evidence continues to be limited. Subsequently, it’s only suggested as a complement.
In any case, it’s generally protected and well-tolerated. It could be included in various recipes or could be taken as a business complement.
It’d interest you…
