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Organic Sea Buckthorn Oil

Also known as: Hippophae rhamnoides L., Sea buckthorn oil, Seabuckthorn oil, Sallowthorn oil, Hippophae rhamnoides

Overview

Organic sea buckthorn oil is extracted from the berries or seeds of the *Hippophae rhamnoides* plant, native to Europe and Asia. It is a botanical oil supplement, functional food ingredient, and nutraceutical, known for its high content of omega-7 (palmitoleic acid), omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids. It is primarily used to support lipid metabolism, cardiovascular health, and skin health, and as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. The oil is rich in fatty acids (palmitic, palmitoleic, oleic, linoleic, linolenic), tocopherols, carotenoids, phytosterols, and flavonoids. Research maturity is moderate, with several RCTs and meta-analyses available, although some studies have heterogeneity and limited sample sizes. The quality of available evidence is generally good for lipid metabolism and skin health, but limited for other endpoints due to inconsistent results and methodological variability.

Benefits

Sea buckthorn oil has shown promise in several areas, particularly lipid metabolism and skin health. A meta-analysis of 15 RCTs (n=1,000+ participants) found that sea buckthorn supplementation significantly reduced triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-C, while increasing HDL-C in subjects with abnormal lipid metabolism. These effects were observed within 8–12 weeks. For skin health, RCTs indicate that sea buckthorn oil fractions, especially those enriched with palmitic acid, are biocompatible, non-toxic, and promote keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation without inducing inflammation. A small RCT (n=11) also found that 5 g/day of sea buckthorn berry oil for 4 weeks reduced ADP-induced platelet aggregation, suggesting potential cardiovascular benefits. However, no significant effects on blood glucose, blood pressure, or BMI have been observed in overall populations.

How it works

Sea buckthorn oil modulates lipid metabolism through its unique fatty acid composition and antioxidant activity. The fatty acids present in the oil interact with fatty acid receptors, influencing lipid synthesis and breakdown. Its antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress, further supporting cardiovascular health. For skin health, the fatty acid and tocopherol content supports skin barrier function, promoting hydration and reducing inflammation. The oil's bioactive compounds also interact with antioxidant enzymes and inflammatory mediators, contributing to its overall health benefits. Fatty acids are generally well-absorbed, although the bioavailability of other bioactive compounds like flavonoids and carotenoids is less well-characterized.

Side effects

Organic sea buckthorn oil is generally well-tolerated, with no serious adverse events reported in clinical trials. The most common side effect is mild gastrointestinal discomfort, which may occur in some individuals. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, include rare reports of allergic reactions. There are no documented rare side effects (less than 1%) in clinical literature. No significant drug interactions have been reported, although there is a theoretical risk with anticoagulants due to the oil's anti-platelet effects. Contraindications include allergy to sea buckthorn or its components. Due to limited data in pregnancy and lactation, caution is advised in these populations. Individuals on anticoagulant therapy should also use sea buckthorn oil with caution.

Dosage

While the minimum effective dose of organic sea buckthorn oil is not well-established, most studies use 2–5 g/day of oil for lipid and cardiovascular benefits. For skin health, topical application of the oil is recommended. Doses up to 5 g/day appear safe in clinical trials, but the maximum safe dose has not been definitively established. It can be taken with meals to enhance absorption, as the fatty acids are well-absorbed with dietary fat. The oil or juice forms are the most studied, and topical oil is preferred for skin applications. No specific cofactors are required for its effectiveness. It is important to adhere to recommended dosage ranges and monitor for any adverse effects.

FAQs

Who benefits most from sea buckthorn oil?

Individuals with abnormal lipid profiles are likely to experience the most significant benefits, particularly in reducing triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-C levels. Effects on blood glucose and blood pressure are minimal.

Is sea buckthorn oil safe?

Sea buckthorn oil is generally safe, but it's important to monitor for gastrointestinal or allergic reactions. Individuals on anticoagulant therapy should use it with caution due to its anti-platelet effects.

How should I take sea buckthorn oil?

For oral intake, take it with meals to enhance absorption. For skin benefits, apply the topical oil as needed. Consistent use over several weeks is typically required to observe noticeable effects.

What results can I expect from taking sea buckthorn oil?

Expect modest improvements in lipid profiles if you have elevated cholesterol or triglycerides. You may also experience skin barrier support with topical application, leading to improved hydration and reduced inflammation.

Can sea buckthorn oil replace my medications?

No, sea buckthorn oil is not a substitute for statins or other lipid-lowering medications. Its effects on weight and blood pressure are minimal, and it should be used as a complementary approach.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6589177/ – This review article discusses the various bioactive compounds found in sea buckthorn and their potential health benefits. It highlights the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties of these compounds, suggesting their potential role in preventing and treating various diseases. The review emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand the mechanisms of action and clinical efficacy of sea buckthorn.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36043374/ – This meta-analysis of 15 RCTs involving over 1,000 participants found that sea buckthorn supplementation significantly reduced triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-C, while increasing HDL-C in subjects with abnormal lipid metabolism. The study concluded that sea buckthorn may be a beneficial adjunct therapy for managing dyslipidemia. However, the authors noted the presence of heterogeneity among the included studies and called for further research to confirm these findings.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.7596 – This study investigated the anti-platelet effects of sea buckthorn berry oil in a small RCT with 11 participants. The results showed that 5 g/day of sea buckthorn berry oil for 4 weeks reduced ADP-induced platelet aggregation, suggesting potential cardiovascular benefits. The authors concluded that sea buckthorn oil may have a role in preventing thrombotic events, but larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cardiovascular-medicine/articles/10.3389/fcvm.2024.1477636/full – This research article focuses on the potential cardiovascular benefits of sea buckthorn. It discusses the various mechanisms by which sea buckthorn may improve heart health, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to modulate lipid metabolism. The article highlights the need for further research to fully elucidate the cardiovascular effects of sea buckthorn and to determine the optimal dosage and duration of treatment.
https://digitalcommons.kansascity.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1928&context=studentpub – This study examined the effects of purified fractions of sea buckthorn oil on skin cells. The results showed that palmitic acid-enriched fractions promoted keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation without inducing inflammation or VEGF synthesis. The authors concluded that sea buckthorn oil fractions may have potential applications in wound healing and skin regeneration. However, the study was conducted in vitro, and further research is needed to confirm these findings in vivo.