Sea Buckthorn

What is Sea Buckthorn?

Sea Buckthorn is an exceptionally hardy shrub that grows across Europe and Asia, from coastal dunes to the mountainous Himalayan regions of Nepal and China. It produces bright orange-yellow berries which have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, giving it the folk name 'the holy fruit of the Himalayas'.

Sea Buckthorn is naturally rich in a variety of bioactive substances, found not only in the berries but also in the seeds and leaves. The berries in particular are sought after for their content of ascorbic acid (vitamin C); phytosterols such as campesterol; carotenoids, among which lycopene and lutein can be found; tocopherols; flavonoids such as quercetin; and polyphenolic compounds such as gallic acid in the leaves and berries, with lower amounts of caffeic acid and ferulic acid. The berries also contain Vitamin E, polyunsaturated fatty acids and zinc.

What does the research say about Sea Buckthorn?

Sea Buckthorn has been extensively studied. Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal skin, and vitamins C and E contribute to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Sea buckthorn's fatty acids have been studied in skin research, and they are widely used in topical skin care products.

Researchers have looked at sea buckthorn seed oil in relation to blood cholesterol and the gut microbiota. Reviews describe its wide spectrum of active compounds, as well as its phytochemistry and uses in food.

Sea buckthorn has also been studied in relation to the body's mucous membranes, the moist tissues lining areas such as the eyes, mouth and vagina. One placebo-controlled study looked at sea buckthorn oil taken by postmenopausal women, measuring vaginal health and mucosal integrity.

Where it's from: Europe and Asia, including coastal areas and the mountainous Himalayan regions of Nepal and China.

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Why it's in pH Hero®

Nutrient-rich composition: Sea Buckthorn is exceptionally rich in vitamins, particularly Vitamin C, E, and several B vitamins. Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, scavenging free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and damage to cellular structures. It also plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, promoting skin elasticity and overall tissue health. Vitamin E further supports skin health through its antioxidant properties, enhancing cell membrane integrity and protecting against lipid peroxidation.

Anti-inflammatory effects: Sea Buckthorn contains various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and carotenoids, that exhibit significant anti-inflammatory properties.¹ These compounds inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), thereby reducing inflammation in tissues. The anti-inflammatory action is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing inflammatory conditions in the urogenital tract, contributing to overall comfort and wellbeing.

Mucosal health support: The oil extracted from Sea Buckthorn berries is rich in Omega 7 fatty acids (palmitoleic acid), which are known to support mucosal health. Omega 7 fatty acids help maintain the integrity of mucosal membranes, including those in the vaginal and urinary tracts. This property is essential for maintaining moisture and preventing dryness, which can lead to discomfort and increase susceptibility to infections. The presence of these fatty acids also aids in promoting tissue regeneration and repair.

Why it's in PeriMenoFriend®

Sea Buckthorn Berry is known for high nutrient content.

Hormonal balance: Sea Buckthorn Berries contain phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens from Sea Buckthorn mediate healthy ovarian cell proliferation, positively influencing hormone levels, and reducing perimenopausal symptoms.²

Skin health: The berry is rich in Omega 7 fatty acids, beneficial for skin hydration and elasticity. As oestrogen levels decline, skin becomes drier and less resilient. Sea Buckthorn promotes moisture retention and reduces the appearance of fine lines².

Cardiovascular health: The berry’s rich profile of antioxidants, including Vitamin C and flavonoids, supports cardiovascular health, combats oxidative stress and improves blood circulation. These benefits are especially important during perimenopause, when the risk of cardiovascular disease increases due to hormonal changes. Studies confirm that Sea Buckthorn can positively influence cardiovascular risk factors.³