Sea Buckthorn

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Posted November 19th, 2007 by Vibrance
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Sea buckthorn juice, pulp and seed oils and leaf and berry extracts contain a variety of phytochemicals including vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, phenolics, terpenes, and tannins (1). Sea Buckthorn is high in nutrient content and antioxidant quality, giving it ‘superfruit’ status. As described in an earlier article here on MyFitTribe, the term ‘superfruit’ is used to describe a fruit that contains high levels of antioxidants or other beneficial nutrients. Other characteristics include the potential for disease impact, the availability of current medical research on the fruit, the capability to modify the fruit for improved nutrient and/or phytochemical composition, and the probability for commercial success.

Sea buckthorn leaf and berry are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, E, K, pantothenic acid, and unsaturated fatty acids. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and maintaining bone health. Vitamin C helps maintain connective tissue, aids in wound healing and bone formation, and helps with iron absorption. Vitamins A, C and E function as antioxidants, protecting the body from oxidative damage, and thereby lowering the risk of several diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Sea buckthorn juice may prevent tumor production (2), and has been found to inhibit the growth of sarcoma, lymphocytic leukemia and human gastric cancer cells when injected into mice (3). Sea Buckthorn also has a high level of unsaturated fatty acids, which may aid in reducing cholesterol and triglycerides.

Sea Buckthorn is available in many cosmetic products such as in facial lotions. Several companies also carry various tinctures, capsules, and oils for internal and external use, as well as jams, teas, and juices.

References

  1. Beveridge, T,; Li, T.S.C; Oomah, B.D.; Smith, A. (1999). Sea buckthorn products; manufacture and composition. J. Food Agric. Chem; 47(9):3480-8.
  2. Li, Y., Liu, H (1991). Prevention of tumor production in rats fed aminopyrine plus nitrite by Sea buckthorn juice. International Agency for Research on Cancer; (105): 568-70.
  3. Peizhen, Z.; Xiaofan, D.; Lina, M.; Dexing, L.; Lanping, L. Antitumor effects of fruit juice and seed oil of Hippophae rhamnoides and their influences on immune function. Proceedings of the international symposium on Sea buckthorn. The Secretariat of International Symposium on Sea buckthorn; Xian, China, 1989: pp373-381.