Seabuckthorn Benefits

Seabuckthorns, or Hippophae rhamnoides, grow naturally in sandy soil in the mountainous regions of Russia and China. The Greek name means “trees that make horses shine” and other common names include sandthorn and swallow-thorn, as stated by the National Seed Laboratory. It thrives in cold climates and at an elevation of between 4,000 and 12,000 feet, but the plant has the ability to adapt to higher temperatures at lower altitudes. The medicinal benefits of seabuckthorn, in both the flavonoids and the oils, have fueled research for several years.

Immunity

• Ingesting seabuckthorn prevents immune suppressors from inhibiting the immune system. Therefore, it prevents dead cells caused by free radicals from attacking the immune system. This strengthens the body's immunity resulting in the ability to resist disease and recover more quickly.

  In laboratory studies, seabuckthorn has been shown to increase the recovery of bone marrow cells associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy in mice. Preliminary test results provided anti-tumor effects as well. (See Resources)

Digestion

• The seed oil from seabuckthorn is used to treat gastric ulcers. It has proven to reduce the amount of gastric acid produced and reduce inflammation in the digestion system. Seabuckthorn also provides support for the liver by normalizing liver enzyme production. It protects the liver from toxic chemicals that cause liver damage as well.

Cardiac

• In recent studies, seabuckthorn was given to patients who suffered from ischemic heart disease. The results reported a decrease in cholesterol levels along with improved cardiac function, according to the Institute for Traditional Medicine. The subjects suffered less chest pain and discomfort after taking the seabuckthorn as well.

Skin

• Seabuckthorn contains an ingredient found in the skin called palmitoleic acid. It has proven essential for healing wounds and treating burns. Taken orally, the oil also benefits the skin and treats forms of dermatitis. It also has UV-blocking ability, making it an ingredient in some sunblocks. Seabuckthorn oil aids in skin regeneration and provides nourishment.