Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides Elaeagnaceae)

Other Names: Sandthorn, Sallowthorn, Seaberry

Sea buckthorn, a deciduous thorny shrub reaching up to five meters, grows on dry, sunny slopes across Europe. Often cultivated to prevent soil erosion in coastal areas, it has silvery, willow-like leaves and tiny yellow-green flowers that yield orange berries on female plants.

Parts for Use

Berries

1. Rich in vitamin C and oils, berries are pressed for juice or processed into syrup.
2. Berry oil is used in cosmetics and for skin treatments.

Ingredients

Sea buckthorn berries contain 200–600 mg of vitamin C per 100 g (ten times more than lemons), flavonoids, beta-carotene, vitamin E, and saturated fatty acids like palmitic acid, beneficial for skin health. Seeds yield oil rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, including linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids.

Use in Treatment

Sea buckthorn juice is a potent source of vitamin C, with three teaspoons meeting an adult’s daily needs. It boosts immunity, fights exhaustion, and supports recovery, making it ideal for pregnant women, athletes, and smokers. Vitamin C aids collagen synthesis for healthy skin and improves iron absorption. The berries’ antioxidants, including vitamin C and flavonoids, protect against free radicals, as confirmed by a 2002 Indian study showing extracts prevent free radical formation. Seed and pulp oil treat dry skin, heal cuts, wounds, and infections, and soothe irritation. Chinese studies on rats indicate the oil’s preventive and curative effects on gastrointestinal ulcers.

Cultivation

Grow sea buckthorn from young plants or autumn-sown seeds in well-drained, sandy soil with ample sunlight. Ensure female plants for berry production.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Exhaustion, Decreased Vitality)

1. Juice or Syrup: Mix 1–3 teaspoons in a glass of water daily.

For External Use (Dry Skin, Cuts, Wounds, Injuries)

1. Seed or Pulp Oil: Apply oil or oil-based preparations to affected areas 1–2 times daily.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. Avoid sea buckthorn preparations if taking anticoagulants.
3. Do not consume juice or syrup late in the day, as it may act as a stimulant.