Sea Buckthorn
Also known as: Hippophae rhamnoides
Overview
Sea buckthorn refers to the plant hippophae rhamnoides, and its usage as a supplement can refer to either the leaves of the plant or the berries that it bears; additionally, the berries can be supplemented as either a dry powder or as an oil derived from the berries. All parts of the plant appear to be bioactive. This plant appears to be a good source of flavonoids, mostly those structurally related to quercetin and kaempferol. It also has procyanidin content like some other plants, with some epigallocatechin and gallocatechin as well. While Hippophae rhamnoides doesn't have any well researched unique properties, it appears to be a good collective source of common flavonoid compounds. Historical usage of this plant has been for cardiovascular and blood health, and it does appear to protect the heart itself in rats and confers anti-platelet effects following higher recommended doses of the supplement in otherwise healthy persons. Some other benefits of this plant, while not completely unique to the plant, include accelerated wound healing and improved skin quality following oral ingestion and some basic neuroprotective properties. Hippophae rhamnoides is effective at helping with many common health goals that other flavonoids are effective at, and while it seems to have a large base in traditional medicine no highly unique properties or molecules have been detected with this plant yet. Currently, sea buckthorn can be said to be healthy but there is no one reason to supplement with this plant over others that are more effective.
Benefits
Sea buckthorn works primarily through its bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and procyanidins, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. These compounds may help protect the cardiovascular system, improve skin health, and support wound healing. The mechanisms involve reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can lead to improved overall health outcomes.
How it works
The benefits of sea buckthorn include support for cardiovascular health, improved skin quality, accelerated wound healing, and potential neuroprotective effects. It is known to help with dry eye symptoms and may have a role in managing blood glucose levels. The plant's flavonoid content contributes to its antioxidative properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
Side effects
Sea buckthorn is supplemented as either a dry plant extract or as an oil made from the berries. When supplementing dry extracts, the range of 500-2,000mg is used for both the berry extracts and the leaf extracts. For the oil, slightly higher dosage ranges (2,000-5,000mg) are used daily.
Dosage
Sea buckthorn is generally considered safe for most people when taken in appropriate doses. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation, especially for those with underlying health conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
FAQs
What is sea buckthorn?
Sea buckthorn is a plant whose leaves and berries are used as supplements for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties.
What are the benefits of sea buckthorn?
Sea buckthorn may support cardiovascular health, improve skin quality, accelerate wound healing, and provide neuroprotective effects.
How should I take sea buckthorn?
Sea buckthorn can be taken as a dry extract or as an oil, with recommended dosages ranging from 500-5,000mg depending on the form.
Are there any side effects of sea buckthorn?
Sea buckthorn is generally safe, but some may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions.
