Hippophae rhamnoides
Bright orange berries, a tart-sweet taste, and healing powers worthy of ancient scrolls. Sea buckthorn — known as the Gold of Siberia — is one of the most nutrient-dense plants in the world. And once you get to know it, you’ll wonder how it’s still flying under the radar in many kitchens.
Packed with rare omega-7 fatty acids, powerful antioxidants, and an alphabet of vitamins, sea buckthorn supports everything from your skin to your immune system. But let’s go beyond the buzzwords — and dive into what science (and tradition) say about this remarkable superberry.
Nutritional Profile per 100g (dried berries)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Energy | 305 kcal |
| Protein | 5.4 g |
| Fat | 9.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 43.0 g |
| Fiber | 19.0 g |
| Vitamin C | 695 mg (1150% DV) |
| Vitamin E | 20.9 mg (140% DV) |
| Vitamin K | 110 µg (92% DV) |
| Vitamin A | 3100 IU |
| Vitamin B1, B2, B6 | present |
| Iron | 2.4 mg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
| Calcium | 40 mg |
| Potassium | 300 mg |
| Omega-7 | rare & abundant |
Health Benefits of Sea Buckthorn
1. Natural powerhouse of VITAMIN C
Sea buckthorn contains up to 10 times more vitamin C than oranges. That means just 100g of dried berries can cover your daily needs — and then some. VITAMIN C supports immunity, skin regeneration, iron absorption, and acts as a strong antioxidant.
2. Strengthens immunity
The berries don’t contain ascorbinase (the enzyme that breaks down VITAMIN C), so their antioxidant potential remains stable — even when dried or stored. Regular intake may reduce the frequency and severity of colds, flu, and other infections.
3. Skin regeneration and wound healing
Thanks to VITAMIN E, beta-carotene, flavonoids, and rare omega-7 fatty acids, sea buckthorn helps speed up skin repair. It’s used in creams for burns, frostbite, radiation damage, and even bedsores. The oil is also known to reduce scars and improve skin elasticity.
4. Cardiovascular protection
Sea buckthorn supports heart health by reducing LDL cholesterol, lowering blood pressure (due to potassium and VITAMIN C), and protecting blood vessels from oxidative stress. It also supports circulation, especially in those with high blood pressure or risk of stroke.
5. Ulcers and acid reflux
Sea buckthorn oil coats the stomach lining, reducing pain and promoting healing in people with gastric ulcers or acid reflux. The oil may be taken up to 3x daily (½ tsp) before meals. But consult your doctor before long-term use, especially if you have liver, gallbladder, or pancreas conditions.
6. Natural support for RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
With strong anti-inflammatory action (thanks to flavonoids and beta-carotene), sea buckthorn can ease joint stiffness and pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Its antioxidant content also protects joint tissues from degradation.
7. Liver and gallbladder support
Sea buckthorn promotes bile flow and may help with mild liver overload. It is not recommended in acute inflammation or gallstones.
8. Brain health and mood balance
Vitamins of the B group, along with omega fatty acids, support nervous system function. Sea buckthorn is being studied for its potential to reduce symptoms of ADHD, improve memory, and enhance mood resilience under stress.
9. Protection for eyes
The high content of beta-carotene and VITAMIN A supports visual acuity and protects the eyes from oxidative damage. Useful for screen users, drivers, and aging eyes.
10. Anti-aging and hormonal balance
VITAMIN E and plant sterols support hormone production and protect cells from oxidative damage — making sea buckthorn a powerful ally for aging skin, perimenopause, and male vitality.
Did You Know…?
- In China and Russia, sea buckthorn is officially used in hospitals for skin regeneration and radiation burns.
- The oil is used as a base in many high-end cosmetics for its natural sun protection and collagen-boosting properties.
- Ancient Greeks fed sea buckthorn leaves to horses to give them shiny coats — hence the name Hippophae, meaning “shiny horse.”
How to Use Sea Buckthorn
In daily life:
– Add 1–2 tsp of freeze-dried powder to your smoothie or yogurt.
– Steep dried berries into tea or boil into a syrup.
– Use sea buckthorn oil on skin or take in capsule form (consult with your physician first).
Pro tip:
To preserve nutrients, avoid boiling at high temperatures. For teas, steep under 70°C to retain VITAMIN C.
Try This!
Sea Buckthorn Morning Elixir
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tsp sea buckthorn powder
– ½ tsp honey
– 1 squeeze of lime
→ Stir and drink first thing in the morning to kickstart your metabolism and immunity!
Immune-Boosting Smoothie
– 1 banana
– 1 cup plant milk
– 1 tsp sea buckthorn powder
– ½ tsp ginger
– 1 tbsp flaxseed
Blend until creamy. Tastes like golden sunshine!
Final Thought
Sea buckthorn isn’t just a berry. It’s a survival kit from nature — packed into a tiny, tart fruit. When taken regularly, it can help rebuild immunity, restore skin health, support your heart, and maybe even brighten your mood.
So… have you tried this orange powerhouse yet?
What’s your favorite way to use it?
