Sea buckthorn is a woody plant with bright orange berries, used in nutrition and medicine for thousands of years.
It contains vitamins B, C (in concentrations higher than in citrus fruits), K, and E, as well as potassium, magnesium, iron, and other minerals.
The berries are rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and the rare omega-7 fatty acid, which is essential for collagen synthesis in the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes.
The oil extract from the seeds contains up to 95% omega fatty acids, including the omega-7 that is unique to plant products.
It also contains omega-3, omega-6, omega-9, organic acids, carotenoids, astaxanthin, tocopherols, tocotrienols, and plant sterols.
Nutritional Value
The glycemic index of sea buckthorn is approximately 25–40.
In 100 g of berries, there are 5–8 g of carbohydrates. Despite the low GI, carbohydrates can affect blood sugar levels and ketosis.
Health Benefits
- skin healing, collagen restoration, correction of eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn;
- support for the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system, acceleration of tissue regeneration;
- strengthening of blood vessels, reduction of inflammation, prevention of premature skin aging, and correction of hyperpigmentation;
- protection from ultraviolet and blue light, prevention of degenerative eye diseases and macular degeneration;
- antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, protection of DNA from oxidation;
- restoration in cases of stomach and intestinal ulcers, including stress-induced ones;
- improvement of lipid profile, increase in HDL levels, reduction of triglycerides combined with omega-3 of marine origin;
- support for heart function, reduction of the risk of stroke and diabetes;
- normalization of neuroendocrine function, improvement of adrenal function, reduction of hypoxia and brain edema;
- protection during chemotherapy and radiation exposure, support for hematopoiesis and liver;
- anti-tumor effects due to the inhibition of insulin-like growth factor-1 and prevention of cell proliferation;
- reduction of inflammation and improvement of eye moisture in dry eye syndrome;
- support for the detoxification function of the liver, improvement of skin and mucous membrane conditions in cases of erosions and ectopia of the cervix.
Symptoms and Consequences of Deficiency
The absence of sources of omega-7, carotenoids, and antioxidants, which are abundant in sea buckthorn, may contribute to dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, slow tissue healing, increased brittleness of hair and nails, susceptibility to inflammation, and photodamage to the skin.
Possible Risks of Excess and Their Manifestations
Excessive consumption may lead to a laxative effect, heartburn, or discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract due to high acidity.
In rare cases, allergic reactions may occur due to individual intolerance.
