Zielińska A, Nowak I. Abundance of active ingredients in sea-buckthorn oil. Lipids Health Dis. 2017 May 19;16(1):95. doi: 10.1186/s12944-017-0469-7. 

Abstract. Vegetable oils are obtained by mechanical extraction or cold pressing of various parts of plants, most often: seeds, fruits, and drupels. Chemically, these oils are compounds of the ester-linked glycerol and higher fatty acids with long aliphatic chain hydrocarbons (min. C14:0). Vegetable oils have a variety of properties, depending on their percentage of saturation. This article describes sea-buckthorn oil, which is extracted from the well characterized fruit and seeds of sea buckthorn. The plant has a large number of active ingredients the properties of which are successfully used in the cosmetic industry and in medicine. Valuable substances contained in sea-buckthorn oil play an important role in the proper functioning of the human body and give skin a beautiful and healthy appearance. A balanced composition of fatty acids give the number of vitamins or their range in this oil and explains its frequent use in cosmetic products for the care of dry, flaky or rapidly aging skin. Moreover, its unique unsaturated fatty acids, such as palmitooleic acid (omega-7) and gamma-linolenic acid (omega-6), give sea-buckthorn oil skin regeneration and repair properties. Sea-buckthorn oil also improves blood circulation, facilitates oxygenation of the skin, removes excess toxins from the body and easily penetrates through the epidermis. Because inside the skin the gamma-linolenic acid is converted to prostaglandins, sea-buckthorn oil protects against infections, prevents allergies, eliminates inflammation and inhibits the aging process. With close to 200 properties, sea-buckthorn oil is a valuable addition to health and beauty products.

Mortensen MW, Spagner C, Cuparencu C, Astrup A, Raben A, Dragsted LO. Sea buckthorn decreases and delays insulin response and improves glycaemic profile following a sucrose-containing berry meal: a randomised, controlled, crossover study of Danish sea buckthorn and strawberries in overweight and obese male subjects. Eur J Nutr. 2018 Dec;57(8):2827-2837. doi: 10.1007/s00394-017-1550-8. 

Abstract. Purpose: Berries and mixed berry products exert acute effects on postprandial glycaemia and insulinemia, but very few berries have been studied, and primarily in normal weight subjects. Sea buckthorn and strawberry are compositionally widely different berries and may likely produce different responses. The effects of strawberry and sea buckthorn on postprandial glycaemia and insulinemia were examined in overweight or obese male subjects. Subjective appetite sensations and ad libitum intake were also examined.....Conclusions: There was no effect on postprandial glucose response to a sugar challenge given together with purees of strawberry or sea buckthorn. Sea buckthorn decreased and delayed the insulin response and improved glycaemic profile compared with control. Strawberry had no such effects. No important differences were seen for the appetite measures. Sea buckthorn might be useful as a culinary tool for lowering meal insulin response.

Ran BB, Li WD. Research progress on chemical constituents and their differences between sea buckthorn berries and leaves. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2019 May;44(9):1767-1773. Chinese. doi: 10.19540/j.cnki.cjcmm.20190222.002. 

Abstract. Sea buckthorn berries and leaves are two medicinal parts derived from the same primitive plant,mostly used as ethnic medicine,which have a long history in Mongolian and Tibetan. This paper reviews the studies on the chemical composition and differences between sea buckthorn berries and leaves. They have the same or similar composition and content of flavonoids,triterpenes,steroids,organic acids and volatile oils,also have some differences. The main differences are as follows: the flavonoids content in the sea buckthorn leaves is greater than that of the sea buckthorn berries,but the species of flavonoids in the berries are higher than leaves. The species and content of steroids and organic acids in the berries are higher than that of the leaves. The berries contain abundant volatile oil,and the leaves contain many phenolic compounds. Finally,the main problems and the prospect of the next research are put forward.

Guo X , Shi L , Yang S , Yang R , Dai X , Zhang T , Liu R , Chang M , Jin Q , Wang X . Effect of sea-buckthorn pulp and flaxseed residues on quality and shelf life of bread. Food Funct. 2019 Jul 17;10(7):4220-4230. doi: 10.1039/c8fo02511h. 

Abstract. The use of natural products as food supplements has received increasing attention in recent years. Sea-buckthorn pulp and flaxseed residues are rich in phenolic fractions and aroma substances, thereby offering high antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. However, large quantities of these residues usually remain unused. Therefore, this study confirmed the chemical composition and antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity of these materials, and evaluated their effect on the quality, characteristics and shelf life of bread. Both residues were rich in crude fiber, while sea-buckthorn had a much higher content of polyphenols compared with flaxseed. The addition of these two residues changed the characteristics and nutritional value of the bread, including the specific volume, color, texture, and antioxidant capacity. Supplementation with these two residues also gave the breads new aromas. The shelf life of the breads was increased by different levels of addition compared with the control group. For sensory evaluation, bread with a suitable content of residues was favored by consumers.

Solà Marsiñach M, Cuenca AP. The impact of sea buckthorn oil fatty acids on human health. Lipids Health Dis. 2019 Jun 22;18(1):145. doi: 10.1186/s12944-019-1065-9. 

Abstract. The beneficial properties of fatty acids have been undervalued for several years. In contraposition, new studies reveal that fatty acids have an essential role for human health. The aim of the study is to demonstrate the clinical applications of fatty acids present in sea buckthorn oil. The composition of fatty acids found in sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) oil is unique for this species, presenting a vast range of health benefits for humans and therefore it is highly valued by both biomedicine and the cosmetic industry. In this way, we will see the clinical effect of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids that constitute sea buckthorn oil and how they contribute to the correct function of the organism. Despite there being studies that support the positive effects of sea buckthorn fatty acids, they are limited. Hence, most of the results obtained in this review are from studies of isolated fatty acids instead of fatty acids extracted from sea buckthorn oil. These facts permit to demonstrate the effect of sea buckthorn fatty acids separately but we lost the possibility of detecting a synergic effect of all of them. More studies are necessary to certify the clinical application of the fatty acids present in sea buckthorn oil as well as discovering possible synergies between them.

Ren QC, Li XH, Li QY, Yang HL, Wang HL, Zhang H, Zhao L, Jiang-Yong SL, Meng XL, Zhang Y, Shen XF. Total flavonoids from sea buckthorn ameliorates lipopolysaccharide/cigarette smoke-induced airway inflammation. Phytother Res. 2019 Aug;33(8):2102-2117. doi: 10.1002/ptr.6404. Epub 2019 Jun 17. PMID: 31209984.

Żuchowski J, Pecio Ł, Marciniak B, Kontek R, Stochmal A. Unusual isovalerylated flavonoids from the fruit of sea buckthorn (Elaeagnus rhamnoides) grown in Sokółka, Poland. Phytochemistry. 2019 Jul;163:178-186. doi: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2019.03.001. Epub 2019 Apr 3. PMID: 30952449.

Drapeau C, Benson KF, Jensen GS. Rapid and selective mobilization of specific stem cell types after consumption of a polyphenol-rich extract from sea buckthorn berries (Hippophae) in healthy human subjects. Clin Interv Aging. 2019 Feb 4;14:253-263. doi: 10.2147/CIA.S186893. 

Abstract. Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a proanthocyanidin-rich extract of sea buckthorn berry (SBB-PE) on the numbers of various types of adult stem cells in the blood circulation of healthy human subjects....Conclusion: Consumption of SBB-PE resulted in selective mobilization of stem cell types involved in regenerative and reparative functions. These data may contribute to the understanding of the traditional uses of SBB for preventive health, regenerative health, and postponing the aging process.

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Europe and Asia, particularly found in arid, sandy areas. This plant is highly regarded for its hardy nature and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions. It produces small, orange-yellow berries that are incredibly rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds.

Botanical Classification

Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Angiosperms
Class: Eudicots
Order: Rosales
Family: Elaeagnaceae
Genus: Hippophae
Species: H. rhamnoides

Plant Characteristics

Sea buckthorn can grow up to 2-4 meters in height and often forms dense, thorny thickets. The leaves are narrow and silvery-green, contributing to its distinctive appearance. The plant is dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female. The small, inconspicuous male flowers and larger, more noticeable female flowers bloom on separate plants in early spring.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Sea buckthorn berries are a powerhouse of vitamins (particularly C and E), essential fatty acids (omega-3, 6, 7, and 9), antioxidants, and plant sterols. The berries also contain a significant amount of flavonoids, which contribute to their health-promoting properties.

How to Cultivate It

To successfully cultivate Hippophae rhamnoides:

1. Soil: Prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils but is adaptable to various soil types, including nutrient-poor ones.
2. Light: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.
3. Water: Tolerant of drought once established but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.
4. Temperature: Hardy and resistant to cold, thriving in temperate to sub-arctic climates.

Uses and Benefits

Sea buckthorn is celebrated not only for its ornamental value but also for its wide range of uses in traditional and modern medicine. The berries, leaves, and seeds are used to produce various products, including oils, juices, and supplements, which are touted for their nutritional benefits. Traditionally, sea buckthorn has been used to aid digestion, enhance skin health, and boost immunity.

Applications

• Nutritional Supplements: Rich in nutrients and antioxidants, sea buckthorn is used in various supplements.
• Skin Care Products: Oils derived from the seeds and pulp are incorporated into creams and serums for their moisturizing and healing properties.
• Culinary Uses: The tart, flavorful berries are used in jams, juices, and other culinary preparations.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Hippophae rhamnoides is an environmentally useful plant, known for its ability to prevent soil erosion and improve the quality of the land through nitrogen fixation. Cultivation and harvesting should be managed sustainably to ensure that natural habitats are not disrupted. Generally, sea buckthorn is safe for most people when used appropriately, but due to its high vitamin content, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid potential side effects like skin rashes or stomach upset.

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) Studies

From the leaves and berries of the sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is extracted chloroform and n-hexane, components with intense antibacterial activity (1).

It is a rich source of vitamins C and E, carotenoids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, organic acids, amino acids, sterols, triterpenols and isoprenols (2) with an antioxidant activity.

The berries produce an oil containing carotenoids, palmitic, palmitolic and oleic acid, while the seed oil is composed of linoleic, linolenic and oleic acid as main components (3) .

This oil has traditionally been used to improve blood circulation and for the treatment of dermatological problems including wounds, gastritis, peptic ulcers, uterine erosion and inflammatory disorders of the genital organs (4).

Sea buckthorn has significant cardioprotective activity and a positive effects on the healing of the cardiovascular system, including inhibition of platelet activation (in particular platelet aggregation), reduction of cholesterol concentration, blood pressure and antioxidant action (5).

In this study, a positive evaluation of the topical effects on atopic lesions as it improved the severity of dermatitis by reducing epidermal thickness (6).

The results of this study on the extract of Sea buckthorn, provide a basis for affordable, low side-effect therapy for the treatment of psoriasis (7).

Cosmetics

It produces a regenerating effect on the skin produced by carotenoids, vitamin E and unsaturated fats contained in the pulp and seeds.

Other applications

It is placed in foods, candies, to give a particular taste.

Sea buckthorn studies

References_______________________________________________________________________

(1) Qadir MI, Abbas K, Younus A, Shaikh RS. Report - Antibacterial activity of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Pak J Pharm Sci. 2016 Sep;29(5):1711-1713. 

Abstract. Objective of the present study was to investigate the antibacterial activity of Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) berries and leaves against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by using the standard disc diffusion method. Chloroform, n-hexane and aqueous extract of the plant parts were used. Doses of 2mg/ml, 4 mg/ml and 6mg/ml were tested against the microorganism, and the zone of inhibition was compared against the standard drug vancomycin. Results indicated that n-hexane and chloroform extracts of berries and n-hexane extract leaves showed significant (p<0.05) antibacterial activity comparable with vancomycin. It was concluded from the study that extracts berries and leaves of Hippophae rhamnoides have antibacterial activity against MRSA.

(2) Yang B, Kallio H. Supercritical CO2-extracted sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) oils as new food ingredients for cardiovascular health. In: Proceedings of Health Ingredients of Europe, Paris; 2002, p. 17–19.

(3) Süleyman, Z., Erdemoğlu, N., Küsmenoğlu, Ş., Gürbüz, İ., Yesilada, E., and Çalış, İ. Fatty acid composition and anti-ulcerogenic activity of Hippophae rhamnoides fruit oil. J Fac Pharm Gazi Univ. 1998; 15: 11–17

(4) Li, T.S.C. and Wang, L.C.H. Physiological components and health effects of ginseng, echinacea and sea buckthorn. in: G. Mazza (Ed.) Functional foods, biochemical and processing aspects. Technomic Publishing Company, Lancaster, PA; 1998: 329–356

Abstract. Background: Increased consumer´s interest in health has driven the development of foods that offer specific beneficial effects. The list of foods and ingredients includes essential and non-essential nutrients, plant and marine components, whole foods, microorganisms, microalgae and technological approaches. Traditionally, health outcomes focussed on the prevention of chronic diseases but health targets have expanded to cover areas such as brain health, inflammation, eye health, women´s health, healthy ageing and beauty. Objective: This review highlights, from a nutritional biochemistry perspective, differential aspects on designing and interpreting human studies to support the health effects of functional foods. Results: Despite the available evidence from in vitro, animal and observational studies, welldesigned human studies are necessary to support the health effects of functional foods. Intervention trials with foods are complex as they imply limitations due to methodological, food-related and host-related factors. The use of responsive, validated and clinically relevant markers becomes essential even though there is a lack of reliable biomarkers of exposure for many bioactives. Furthermore, the effect of modulating factors such as subclinical inflammation, gut microbiota and genetic variability should be taken into account. Multiple indicators may provide a more reliable alternative to assess physiological processes while emerging biomarkers (microRNAs, epigenetic changes) constitute a promising approach. Additionally, the magnitude of the change is critical to support any health effect although interventions may have a limited clinical impact but be epidemiologically relevant. Also, based on the available data, the premise that bioactivescontaining foods are safe may be questionable. Conclusion: An integrated approach including multiple biomarkers, genetic variability, effect of gut microbiota and risk/benefit assessment should be used to support the potential health effects of functional foods.

(5) Olas B. Sea buckthorn as a source of important bioactive compounds in cardiovascular diseases. Food Chem Toxicol. 2016 Nov;97:199-204. doi: 10.1016/j.fct.2016.09.008. Epub 2016 Sep 9. PMID: 27616182.

(6) Hou DD, Di ZH, Qi RQ, Wang HX, Zheng S, Hong YX, Guo H, Chen HD, Gao XH. Sea Buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides L.) Oil Improves Atopic Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions via Inhibition of NF-κB and STAT1 Activation. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2017;30(5):268-276. doi: 10.1159/000479528. Epub 2017 Sep 6. PMID: 28873377.

(7) Boca AN, Ilies RF, Saccomanno J, Pop R, Vesa S, Tataru AD, Buzoianu AD. Sea buckthorn extract in the treatment of psoriasis. Exp Ther Med. 2019 Feb;17(2):1020-1023. doi: 10.3892/etm.2018.6983.

Abstract. Psoriasis is one of the most common chronic dermatological conditions, with a strong impact on patients' quality of life. Currently, psoriasis benefits from conventional therapy with a high rate of adverse effects and an increase in non-compliance and self-medication of patients. As such, there is a need to pinpoint low-adverse effects and accessible remedies for this condition. Our single-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed the effect of sea buckthorn extract on psoriasis lesions in previously untreated patients. Our results showed an improvement in Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) scores and in Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores when compared to the baseline values, as well as at the 4- and 8-week time marks for the lesions treated with sea buckthorn extract. By contrast, the measurements for the placebo treated lesions showed no alteration at the 4-week mark, and significant worsening at the end of the trial. These findings provide a solid, optimistic base for the in-depth research of sea buckthorn as an adjuvant or a component in psoriasis care protocols.