Organic Buckthorn
Also known as: Sea buckthorn, Organic buckthorn, Hippophae rhamnoides
Overview
Hippophae rhamnoides, commonly known as sea buckthorn, is a shrub native to Europe and Asia, widely utilized for its berries and oils derived from the pulp and seeds. It is recognized as a plant-based dietary supplement, distinguished by its rich composition of bioactive compounds including polyphenols, carotenoids, essential fatty acids (notably palmitoleic acid), and various vitamins, such as vitamin E. The primary applications of sea buckthorn in supplementation revolve around supporting cardiovascular health, optimizing lipid metabolism, and aiding in the management of metabolic syndrome. While research into its benefits is ongoing, there is moderate to high-quality evidence supporting its role in improving lipid profiles. Preliminary studies also suggest potential anticancer properties, though these claims require more extensive human clinical validation. Its high antioxidant content contributes to its overall health-promoting effects.
Benefits
Sea buckthorn primarily offers significant benefits for individuals with abnormal lipid metabolism, demonstrating a clinically meaningful improvement in blood lipid profiles. Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) indicate a reduction in triglycerides (SMD -0.722, p < 0.001), total cholesterol (SMD -0.345, p = 0.021), and LDL cholesterol (SMD -0.396, p = 0.031), alongside an increase in HDL cholesterol (SMD 0.370, p = 0.021). These effects are particularly noted in populations with hyperlipidemia but are not typically observed in healthy individuals with normal lipid levels. Secondary benefits include potential amelioration of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and obesity, primarily through its influence on lipid metabolism and gut microbiota, as shown in animal models. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are believed to contribute to overall cardiovascular protection. Furthermore, preliminary in vitro and animal studies suggest anticancer activity through mechanisms involving apoptosis and autophagy, though human clinical data are currently insufficient to confirm these effects.
How it works
Sea buckthorn exerts its beneficial effects primarily by modulating lipid metabolism. Its rich content of bioactive compounds, including palmitoleic acid (C16:1n-7), tocopherols, phytosterols, and carotenoids, contributes to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-regulating properties. These compounds work to reduce circulating triglycerides and LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL cholesterol. The mechanism also involves the modulation of gut microbiota diversity and richness, which may further contribute to metabolic improvements. For its potential anticancer effects, sea buckthorn is thought to activate mitochondrial apoptosis pathways (cytochrome c-caspase 9-caspase 3), inhibit cancer cell proliferation, and regulate the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway. The absorption and bioavailability of its components depend on the specific formulation, with oils providing fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins, and extracts delivering polyphenols and carotenoids.
Side effects
Sea buckthorn is generally considered safe for consumption, with randomized controlled trials reporting no major adverse effects. Any side effects are rare and typically mild, primarily limited to occasional gastrointestinal discomfort. There is no documented evidence of significant drug interactions or contraindications from high-quality studies. However, specific populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and children, lack sufficient research data regarding its safety. Therefore, caution is advised for these groups, and consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended before use. While no established maximum safe dose exists, clinical trials have not reported toxicity at the doses studied.
Dosage
Effective dosages of sea buckthorn vary depending on the specific extract or oil formulation and the intended health benefit. Clinical studies and meta-analyses have utilized doses ranging from 100 mg to several grams per day. There is currently no single consensus on an optimal dose, as different studies have employed varying amounts. For optimal absorption, especially of its fat-soluble components, sea buckthorn oils and extracts can be taken with meals. While no established maximum safe dose has been determined, clinical trials have not reported toxicity at the doses investigated. Users should refer to product-specific recommendations or consult with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate dosage for their individual needs.
FAQs
Is sea buckthorn effective for cholesterol?
Yes, sea buckthorn has been shown to significantly improve lipid profiles, including reducing total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, while increasing HDL, particularly in individuals with dyslipidemia.
Is sea buckthorn safe for long-term use?
Current evidence suggests a good safety profile for sea buckthorn, with no major adverse effects reported in studies. However, long-term safety data are still limited, and ongoing research is needed.
When can I expect to see results from taking sea buckthorn?
Improvements in lipid profiles from sea buckthorn supplementation may become apparent within a few weeks to several months of consistent use, as observed in clinical trials.
Does sea buckthorn help with blood sugar or weight loss?
Based on current meta-analyses, sea buckthorn has not shown significant effects on blood glucose levels or body mass index (BMI).
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36043374/ – This meta-analysis of 15 RCTs found that sea buckthorn significantly reduced triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL, and increased HDL in subjects with abnormal lipid metabolism. It noted no significant effect on blood glucose, blood pressure, or BMI, highlighting its primary benefit for dyslipidemia.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.1067813/full – This animal study demonstrated that sea buckthorn pulp and seed oils improved lipid metabolism, reduced obesity markers, and modulated gut microbiota in mice on a high-fat diet. It provides preclinical evidence for sea buckthorn's role in metabolic health, suggesting potential human relevance.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9763470/ – This review and meta-analysis explored the anticancer potential of sea buckthorn, identifying its ability to induce apoptosis and modulate autophagy pathways, along with its antioxidant effects. It emphasized that while promising, most evidence is from in vitro and animal studies, with limited human clinical trials for cancer.
