The benefits of sea buckthorn are vast. That’s why sea buckthorn has been used for thousands of years.
Some science-backed benefits of sea buckthorn include:
- Naturally full of antioxidants. So it helps to protect your body against aging and illnesses like cancer and heart disease.
- Highly nutritious. The seeds and leaves are rich in quercetin, a flavonoid linked to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease. Its berries contain potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, folate, biotin and vitamins B1, B2, B6, C and E. Additionally, sea buckthorn contains 2 types of healthy fats. Besides that, more than half of the fat found in sea buckthorn oil is mono- and polyunsaturated fat.
- Provides all four omega fatty acids. Includes omega-3, omega-6, omega-7 and omega-9.
- It enhances heart and liver health. Its antioxidants may help reduce risk factors of heart disease. This includes blood clots, blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels.
- May protect against diabetes. According to Healthline, a small human study noted that sea buckthorn oil may help minimize blood sugar spikes after a carb-rich meal. Also, a small 2010 study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that sea buckthorn may help keep blood sugar in check and protect against type 2 diabetes.
- May boost your immune system. This is due to the high flavonoid content.
- Treats skin disorders. Recently sea buckthorn has gained popularity as an ingredient in skin-care products. It is believed to moisturize the skin, ease irritation, treat acne and heal aging-related damage. According to a 1999 study in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, sea buckthorn supplements may help treat atopic dermatitis.
Sea buckthorn grows at high altitudes in the northwest Himalayan region. It is sometimes referred to as the holy fruit of the Himalayas. In fact, the sea buckthorn fruit is sometimes used in sweet treats including jams, juices, purees, sauces, pies, and drinks.
Though, while sea buckthorn is used as a food source it’s usage is also medicinal. Sea buckthorn can be applied to the skin or ingested. Available in supplement form, sea buckthorn may be sold as an oil, in capsule form, or as a capsule combined with other herbal remedies.
Overall, sea buckthorn is a popular alternative remedy for a variety of ailments. Meanwhile, as a nutrient dense fruit it is especially wonderful as a food source. There is no wonder this plant has been used for thousands of years. It is just as relevant today as it was a thousand years ago. So explore the many benefits of sea buckthorn for yourself.
