Why Sea Buckthorn is the Ultimate Superfood for Vegetarians & Vegans

  Dr. Balwant Singh,  Yoga Expert Thane

Origin of Sea Buckthorn

Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is an ancient shrub believed to have originated in the cold, arid regions of the Himalayas and Central Asia, particularly in areas that now include Tibet, Nepal, India (Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh), Mongolia, and parts of China. Historical records suggest that it has thrived for over 200 million years, surviving extreme climates ranging from high-altitude mountains to coastal sandy soils.

·       In Tibetan medicine, it has been used for over 1,000 years under the name Star-Bu as a healing berry for energy and tissue repair.

·       In Ayurveda, it is known as “Leh Berry” or “Amrit Phal” (nectar fruit), widely used in Ladakh and Spiti regions as a natural tonic.

·       Ancient Greek texts mention that war horses were fed Sea Buckthorn leaves and berries to heal wounds and make their coats shine, which is how the plant got its botanical name (Hippophae) derived from the Greek words “hippos” (horse) and “phaos” (shining) meaning “shiny horse.”

Today, Sea Buckthorn grows naturally across Europe, Siberia, and high-altitude regions of India and China, and is cultivated globally for its nutraceutical, cosmetic, and medicinal value.

In the world of natural superfoods, Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) has emerged as a nutritional powerhouse. Known in Ayurveda as Leh Berry and widely used in traditional Tibetan and Chinese medicine, this bright orange berry is packed with rare bioactive nutrients that make it exceptionally valuable, particularly for vegetarians and vegans who often lack certain fat-soluble vitamins and essential fatty acids.

Let’s explore how science supports its incredible health benefits.

1. A Complete Source of Omega Fatty Acids (A Rare Find in the Plant Kingdom)

While most plant-based foods provide Omega-3 and Omega-6, Sea Buckthorn is one of the only known vegetarian sources containing all four essential omegas- 3, 6, 7, and 9.

1.     Omega-3 (ALA): Supports brain and heart health.

2.     Omega-6 (LA): Boosts skin repair and immunity.

3.     Omega-7 (Palmitoleic Acid): A rare fatty acid known for healing mucous membranes, gut lining, and promoting glowing skin.

4.     Omega-9 (Oleic Acid): Helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

For vegetarians who miss out on fish or cod liver oil, Sea Buckthorn seed or berry oil serves as a plant-based alternative for essential fatty acids.

2. Rich in Vitamin B12 & Vitamin C (Solving Common Veg Deficiencies)

One of the biggest challenges for vegetarians is Vitamin B12 deficiency, which often leads to weakness, nerve issues, and anemia. Research suggests that Sea Buckthorn contains bioavailable B12, making it a natural support for vegetarians.

It also contains 10 times more Vitamin C than oranges, enhancing:

·       Immunity and healing

·       Collagen production for skin and joints

·       Iron absorption (important for vegan diets)

3. Supports Skin, Hair & Anti-Aging Naturally

Sea Buckthorn is commonly known as the “beauty berry” due to its high content of:

·       Carotenoids & Vitamin E: reduces wrinkles and protects from sun damage

·       Omega-7: deeply repairs skin cells, making it useful for eczema, dry skin, cracked lips, and scalp nourishment

·       Collagen-boosting antioxidants:  slows aging and improves elasticity

No wonder it’s used in cosmetics, anti-aging serums, and herbal ointments.

4. Strengthens Heart & Liver Health

·       Scientific studies show that Sea Buckthorn:

·       Reduces LDL (bad cholesterol) and improves HDL levels

·       Lowers inflammation and oxidative stress

·       Protects liver cells from toxins and fatty deposits; beneficial for people with fatty liver or high alcohol/toxin exposure

5. Powerful for Digestive & Gut Health

Its anti-inflammatory and mucosal healing properties help in:

·       Acidity, ulcers, IBS, and constipation

·       Gut lining repair; especially important for those consuming high-fiber vegetarian diets

Omega-7 plays a crucial role in maintaining intestinal moisture and lubrication.

6. Antioxidant Shield against Diseases

Sea Buckthorn is rich in over 190 bioactive compounds, including:

·       Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol)

·       Polyphenols

·       Superoxide dismutase

These act as natural defenders against free radicals, lowering the risk of:

·       Chronic inflammation

·       Cancer cell growth (as per preliminary studies)

·       Degenerative diseases

How to Consume Sea Buckthorn

Sea Buckthorn can be taken in various convenient forms depending on your health goal:

·       Juice (unsweetened) is the most common and traditional way of consumption. Taking 20–30 ml daily, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach, helps boost digestion, immunity, and overall vitality.

·       Capsules or softgel oil extracts are ideal for those targeting skin health, heart care, or liver protection. A typical dosage ranges from 500 to 1000 mg per day, taken after meals for better absorption.

·       Sea Buckthorn powder can be mixed into warm water, smoothies, or herbal drinks. This method provides a quick energy boost and supports nutrient replenishment, especially for those with a busy lifestyle.

·       Topical oil application is excellent for skin repair, dryness, cracked heels, or scalp nourishment. Applying a few drops gently onto the skin or hair allows direct absorption of its Omega-7-rich regenerative properties.

Conclusion

Sea Buckthorn is not just another health trend; it is a scientifically validated superfood that bridges nutritional gaps especially for vegetarians and vegans. Whether you seek stronger immunity, glowing skin, better digestion, or heart protection, this golden berry delivers.

In a world full of synthetic supplements, Sea Buckthorn offers a complete, natural, and vegetarian-friendly solution for total wellness.