Scientifically Supported Health Benefits of Sea Buckthorn
1. Skin Regeneration and Hydration
Sea buckthorn is widely known for its dermatological benefits. Omega-7 and β-carotene help maintain skin elasticity, reduce transepidermal water loss, and enhance epithelial repair. Clinical studies have demonstrated that oral and topical sea buckthorn oil improves wound healing, reduces inflammation in dermatitis, and increases skin hydration [4].
2. Immune Function and Antimicrobial Defense
Rich in vitamin C (200–600 mg/100 g) and flavonoids, sea buckthorn juice stimulates white blood cell activity, modulates cytokine responses, and reduces inflammation. It also contains antiviral and antibacterial components, making it effective in reducing respiratory infections and speeding recovery [5,6].
3. Cardiovascular and Metabolic Support
Sea buckthorn improves endothelial function, reduces LDL cholesterol, and raises HDL levels. Omega-3 and omega-7 fatty acids support heart rhythm and vascular integrity. A randomized study found sea buckthorn oil reduced C-reactive protein and improved blood lipid profiles in individuals with metabolic syndrome [7].
4. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Protection
The juice’s unique combination of tocopherols, carotenoids, and flavonoids has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Sea buckthorn suppresses NF-κB activation and COX-2 expression, reducing systemic inflammation. It also enhances glutathione levels and neutralizes oxidative stress—key for aging, cardiovascular, and metabolic health [3,8].
5. Gastrointestinal Health and Gut Barrier Integrity
Sea buckthorn polysaccharides improve intestinal mucosa healing, support microbiota diversity, and enhance short-chain fatty acid production. In animal models, sea buckthorn juice accelerated recovery from gastric ulcers and improved gut permeability [9].
6. Liver and Detoxification Support
Sea buckthorn helps normalize liver enzymes, reduce lipid accumulation in hepatocytes, and support detoxification. It enhances phase I and II liver enzymes, assisting in the breakdown and elimination of toxins, and protects against chemical-induced liver damage [10].
7. Eye and Mucosal Health
Zeaxanthin, β-carotene, and omega-7 support tear film stability and epithelial cell turnover in the eyes, respiratory tract, and urogenital lining. Clinical evidence suggests sea buckthorn supplementation improves dry eye symptoms and mucosal hydration [11].
References
- Yang, B., et al. (2002). Fatty acid composition of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) berries. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 50(3), 3785–3789.
- Beveridge, T., et al. (1999). Sea buckthorn products: Manufacture and composition. Journal of Food Science, 64(3), 372–379.
- Zeb, A. (2006). Antioxidant profile of sea buckthorn juice. Food Chemistry, 96(3), 390–394.
- Geetha, S., et al. (2002). Wound healing properties of sea buckthorn oil. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 79(2), 273–278.
- Ganju, L., et al. (2005). Immunomodulatory effects of sea buckthorn in cold-exposed humans. International Immunopharmacology, 5(2), 277–287.
- Upadhyay, N. K., et al. (2010). Antimicrobial effects of sea buckthorn. Current Microbiology, 60(5), 376–382.
- Johansson, A., et al. (2000). Effects of sea buckthorn oil on cholesterol metabolism. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 11(6), 338–340.
- Basu, P., et al. (2007). Sea buckthorn and oxidative stress resistance. Phytomedicine, 14(11), 770–777.
- Guliyev, V. B., et al. (2004). Gastroprotective effects of sea buckthorn preparations. Phytotherapy Research, 18(7), 582–586.
- Xing, J., et al. (2002). Hepatoprotective effect of sea buckthorn oil. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 79(2), 183–191.
- Yang, B., et al. (2016). Sea buckthorn improves dry eye and mucosal hydration. Journal of Nutrition, 146(10), 1982–1988.