Sea
buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides),
also known as seaberry, Siberian pineapple, or Alpine sandthorn, is a hardy,
deciduous shrub, with yellow or orange berries, native to temperate areas of
Asia and Europe. It may have originated in the Himalayan mountains, thriving in
rocky terrains at elevations that reach 14,000 feet. A six to fourteen feet
tall shrub, sea buckthorn rapidly develops an extensive root system, making it
an ideal plant for preventing soil erosion.
Because of
its symbiotic association with actinomycetes (a bacteria commonly found in
soil), the plant helps fix nitrogen, and the roots can transform insoluble
organic and mineral matter to more soluble states, improving substandard soils.
Although the plant is drought tolerant, it requires 16 to 24 inches of rain for
best production of fruit. Sea buckthorn can be propagated by seed, soft or
hardwood cuttings, layering and suckers. The plant depends on wind for
pollination.
Sea
buckthorn berries have been cherished for centuries for their healing,
nutritive, and therapeutic qualities. The berries have a high content of
carotenoids (pro-vitamin A), tocopherols (vitamin E), phylloquinone (vitamin
K), as well as other vitally important healing and health-promoting vitamins,
fatty acids, and micro-elements. The berries are also rich in carbohydrates,
protein, organic acids, and amino acids. Vitamin C concentration varies
according to species and habitat but can contain 360 mg/100 g of berries
(compared to the 50 mg/100 g of an orange).
Some of the pharmacological functions attributed to sea buckthorn oil are
anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, analgesic, and regenerative. Traditional use
and modern scientific research have shown that sea buckthorn oil is effective
in treating health problems related to gastrointestinal ailments. Products made
from the plant have been used for treating oral, vaginal, and rectal mucositis
(inflammation of the mucous membrane), radiation damage, burns, scalds, ulcers,
and various skin conditions.
Sea
buckthorn oil has also been used to inhibit plaque formation, reduce
cholesterol, and normalize blood pressure. In its regenerative capacity, it has
been used to stimulate tissue growth. Sea buckthorn oil has been applied to
skin and hair to improve condition. Other traditional use includes protecting
cell membranes from the harmful effects of chemical contaminants, stimulating
the immune system, and boosting the pancreas. One of the FasTrak HerbClips (HC
091061-409) covers a recent randomized clinical trial that found sea buckthorn
oil effective in reducing dry eyes when it was taken orally.