Sea Buckthorn - A Superberry for Immunity: Exploring Benefits and Contraindications

Sea Buckthorn - A Superberry for Immunity: Exploring Benefits and Contraindications

Sea buckthorn has long been known for its healing properties and is considered one of the most beneficial natural sources of vitamins and trace elements. This berry contains omega-7 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, carotenoids, and minerals that actively support health in the fall and winter.

Main Benefits of Sea Buckthorn for the Body

Sea buckthorn has many beneficial properties that make it a valuable product for maintaining health:

• Immune System Strengthening - High vitamin C content (400 mg per 100 g of product with a daily norm of 60–100 mg) and phytoncides help the body fight infections and reduce the duration of colds.
• Support for the Cardiovascular System - Omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids help maintain heart function, lower cholesterol levels, and normalize blood pressure.
• Anti-inflammatory Action - The antioxidants present have anti-inflammatory properties and reduce the risk of tumor formation.
• Wound Healing and Regeneration - Vitamins E and A stimulate tissue recovery and improve metabolism.
• Improvement of Skin, Hair, and Nail Health - Sterols and phenolic compounds improve the condition of the skin.
• Anti-aging Effect - The substances in sea buckthorn can slow down the aging process by neutralizing free radicals.

Contraindications and Limitations

Despite its many beneficial properties, sea buckthorn has serious contraindications. In small amounts, the berry is considered quite safe but requires caution in certain conditions:

Gastrointestinal Diseases: Sea buckthorn is contraindicated in cases of stomach and duodenal ulcers, acute cholecystitis, pancreatitis, and gastritis with high acidity. The acids in the berries significantly increase gastric juice secretion, which can provoke exacerbations. It is important to note that sea buckthorn oil, on the contrary, is beneficial for ulcer disease.

Blood Coagulation Disorders: Sea buckthorn has a blood-thinning effect and is contraindicated when taking anticoagulants. The berry may increase the risk of bleeding, so it should be avoided by patients with bleeding, before surgical operations, and in the presence of deep wounds.

Other Contraindications: Urolithiasis, acute liver and bladder inflammation, diabetes mellitus (the berry may lower blood sugar), tendency to diarrhea, and allergic reactions.

Recommendations for Use

The optimal consumption rate of sea buckthorn is no more than 50 grams of berries at a time in the absence of contraindications. Children from one year can be given a little diluted sea buckthorn juice, but for those prone to allergies, it is better to refrain from introducing this product until the age of three.

Experts recommend consuming sea buckthorn in the form of berries, oil, or juice to support health during the cold season. However, before starting regular intake of any supplements with sea buckthorn extract, it is essential to consult a doctor, especially in the presence of chronic diseases and when taking medications.