Organic Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil
Also known as: Hippophae rhamnoides L., Sea buckthorn berry oil, Sea buckthorn oil, Organic sea buckthorn oil, Hippophae rhamnoides
Overview
Organic sea buckthorn berry oil is extracted from the berries of *Hippophae rhamnoides* L., a shrub native to Europe and Asia. It is characterized by its high content of unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds. Primarily used to support skin health, cardiovascular function, and metabolic syndrome management, sea buckthorn berry oil is available in various forms, including oil and juice. The oil contains palmitoleic acid (omega-7), linoleic acid (omega-6), alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), oleic acid (omega-9), and gamma-linolenic acid. Research suggests potential benefits such as improved skin barrier function and reduced platelet aggregation, but further large-scale, long-term studies are needed to confirm these effects and establish definitive clinical recommendations. The quality of available evidence is mixed, with some positive findings in small randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, but limitations exist due to sample size and heterogeneity.
Benefits
Sea buckthorn berry oil has shown potential benefits for skin health and cardiovascular function. Clinical trials indicate improved skin barrier function and biocompatibility with skin cells, with palmitic acid-enriched fractions promoting keratinocyte proliferation without inflammation. Small RCTs suggest that sea buckthorn berry oil may reduce platelet aggregation; for example, a 4-week trial with 11 healthy males showed decreased ADP-induced aggregation. Some studies have also observed improvements in lipid profiles, such as an 8-week RCT with 20 healthy males finding a 20% increase in HDL-C and a 17% increase in triglycerides (TG). However, no significant changes in LDL-C or total cholesterol were noted. While these findings are promising, the evidence is limited by small sample sizes and inconsistent results, necessitating further research to confirm these benefits.
How it works
Sea buckthorn berry oil exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. It modulates lipid metabolism, reduces oxidative stress, and exhibits anti-inflammatory activity. The fatty acids (omega-3, -6, -7, and -9) and other bioactive compounds in the oil interact with cell membranes and signaling pathways. For instance, these components can influence the production of inflammatory mediators and affect the balance of lipids in the body. The oil's components are well-absorbed when taken orally, and topical application is effective for skin benefits. Its interaction with the skin, cardiovascular, and metabolic systems contributes to its observed health effects.
Side effects
Organic sea buckthorn berry oil is generally well-tolerated in clinical studies. Common side effects are rare, with mild gastrointestinal discomfort being the most frequently reported. Uncommon side effects are not commonly reported in clinical trials. Rare side effects, such as allergic reactions, are possible but infrequent. No significant drug interactions have been reported in clinical studies, although there is a theoretical risk with anticoagulants due to the oil's antiplatelet effects. Contraindications include allergy to sea buckthorn or its components. Special population considerations include the fact that safety in pregnancy and lactation has not been established, and caution is advised for individuals with bleeding disorders. Overall, while sea buckthorn berry oil is considered safe for most people, it is essential to be aware of potential adverse effects and to consult with a healthcare provider if any concerns arise.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of sea buckthorn berry oil is not well-established, but typical doses in studies range from 5 g/day of berry oil to 300 ml/day of juice. Optimal dosage ranges are generally between 5–10 g/day of oil for cardiovascular or metabolic benefits, while topical application can be used as needed for skin health. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but doses up to 10 g/day appear safe in short-term studies. It can be taken with meals to enhance absorption. Oil or juice forms are most commonly studied, and topical oil is used for skin applications. Absorption is enhanced by dietary fat, and no specific cofactors are required.
FAQs
What are the expected results from taking sea buckthorn berry oil?
Modest improvements in skin health and cardiovascular markers are possible, but not guaranteed. Individual results may vary, and long-term benefits are not yet fully established.
How should I take sea buckthorn berry oil?
It can be taken daily with meals to enhance absorption. For skin benefits, apply the oil topically as needed. Monitor for any allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort.
Is sea buckthorn berry oil safe?
It is generally safe, but monitor for allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort. Consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or are taking anticoagulants.
What is sea buckthorn berry oil used for?
It is used for skin health, cardiovascular support, and metabolic syndrome management. However, evidence for metabolic or cardiovascular benefits is preliminary.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6589177/ – This systematic review of 54 studies (reviews, in vitro, in vivo trials) demonstrated clinical applications of sea buckthorn oil fatty acids, particularly for skin and metabolic health. The review highlighted the need for more robust clinical trials to confirm these findings. The quality of the review was high, but it was limited by the available primary evidence.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10217465/ – This article discusses the potential health benefits of sea buckthorn, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It highlights the various bioactive compounds present in sea buckthorn and their potential roles in promoting overall health. The article emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand the mechanisms of action and clinical applications of sea buckthorn.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cardiovascular-medicine/articles/10.3389/fcvm.2024.1477636/full – This RCT with 11 healthy adult males found that 5 g/day of sea buckthorn berry oil reduced ADP-induced platelet aggregation after 4 weeks. However, it did not affect plasma or platelet phospholipid fatty acids. The study's methodology was adequate, but the small sample size limited the ability to draw definitive conclusions.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.7596 – This study investigates the effects of sea buckthorn oil on skin health. It highlights the oil's ability to improve skin barrier function and promote keratinocyte proliferation. The research suggests that sea buckthorn oil can be a valuable ingredient in skincare products.
- https://digitalcommons.kansascity.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1928&context=studentpub – This paper provides an overview of the nutritional and medicinal properties of sea buckthorn. It discusses the various bioactive compounds present in sea buckthorn and their potential health benefits. The paper emphasizes the importance of further research to fully understand the therapeutic potential of sea buckthorn.
