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Sea Buckthorn Oil Blend

Also known as: Hippophae rhamnoides L., Seaberry oil, Sandthorn oil, Hippophae rhamnoides

Overview

Sea buckthorn oil, derived from the berries and seeds of *Hippophae rhamnoides* shrubs native to Europe and Asia, is a plant-derived fatty acid supplement gaining recognition for its potential health benefits. It is characterized by a unique composition of fatty acids, including palmitoleic acid (ω-7), linoleic acid (ω-6), α-linolenic acid (ω-3), and γ-linolenic acid (ω-6), as well as a high carotenoid content. Primary uses include supporting skin health, cardiovascular function, and metabolic syndrome management. Research on sea buckthorn oil is still emerging, with limited large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Evidence quality is considered moderate for skin health and preliminary for cardiometabolic effects. It is available primarily as a cold-pressed oil and in standardized extract forms.

Benefits

Sea buckthorn oil has shown potential benefits in several areas. For skin regeneration, clinical observations suggest improved wound healing rates, though robust RCT confirmation is lacking. Regarding lipid modulation, one 8-week juice trial (n=20) reported a 20% increase in HDL-C, but also a 17% increase in triglycerides, requiring further verification. Studies have also indicated reduced ADP-induced platelet aggregation in healthy males with a 5g/day oil dosage (n=11). Furthermore, in vitro studies have demonstrated high carotenoid bioavailability, suggesting antioxidant capacity. Overall, the evidence base is still developing, and further research is needed to confirm these benefits.

How it works

Sea buckthorn oil's mechanism of action involves several pathways. Its fatty acid composition modulates PPAR-γ and SREBP-1c pathways, influencing lipid metabolism. The flavonoid content contributes to anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting NF-κB and COX-2. For skin barrier function, ω-7 fatty acids stimulate ceramide synthesis. Bioavailability studies suggest that carotenoids from sea buckthorn oil have 2-3 times higher absorption compared to synthetic forms. These combined actions contribute to the observed benefits in skin health, cardiovascular function, and metabolic processes.

Side effects

Sea buckthorn oil is generally considered safe, but some side effects have been reported. Common effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, which is often dose-dependent. Uncommon side effects involve allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Rare, severe adverse events have not been reported in clinical trials. There is a theoretical risk of potentiation of anticoagulants, although this has not been clinically confirmed. Due to insufficient safety data, sea buckthorn oil is contraindicated during pregnancy. It is important to monitor for any adverse reactions and discontinue use if they occur.

Dosage

The effective dosage range for sea buckthorn oil is typically between 2-5g per day, as used in clinical trials. There is no established upper limit, but doses up to 10g/day have been used safely in trials. It is recommended to take sea buckthorn oil with meals to enhance the absorption of its fat-soluble components. Cold-pressed oil is generally preferred over standardized extracts. The oil naturally contains vitamin E, which acts as a cofactor. It is advisable to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it to assess tolerance.

FAQs

Does it help with dry skin?

Clinical observations suggest moisturizing effects, but these findings lack confirmation from randomized controlled trials. More research is needed to determine its effectiveness for dry skin.

How long until results?

Lipid changes have been observed at 8 weeks in some studies. Skin effects may require a longer duration, potentially between 4-12 weeks, based on clinical observations. Individual results may vary.

Is it vegan-friendly?

Yes, sea buckthorn oil is a plant-derived oil, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is extracted from the berries and seeds of the sea buckthorn plant.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6589177/ – This systematic review analyzed 54 studies, including 12 *in vivo* studies, and found strong preclinical evidence for skin and wound benefits. It also found moderate clinical evidence for lipid modulation. The review noted limitations such as heterogeneous study designs and small human cohorts, and was of moderate quality, following PRISMA-compliant methodology.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cardiovascular-medicine/articles/10.3389/fcvm.2024.1477636/full – This RCT meta-analysis with 11-20 participants per arm reported a 20% increase in HDL-C, a 17% increase in triglycerides, and a decrease in platelet aggregation. The study was limited by its small sample size and short duration. The quality was rated as fair, as it was double-blinded but had a small number of participants.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10217465/ – This clinical review focused on the effects of sea buckthorn oil on metabolic syndrome. It found that sea buckthorn oil improves insulin sensitivity markers in animal models. The review was considered preliminary due to its mechanistic emphasis and limited human translation.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/1/76 – This study demonstrated high carotenoid bioavailability from sea buckthorn oil in vitro. The carotenoids showed 2-3 times higher absorption compared to synthetic forms. This suggests a potential mechanism for the antioxidant benefits associated with sea buckthorn oil consumption.
https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=138110 – This paper provides clinical observations of improved wound healing rates with sea buckthorn oil. It also suggests that ω-7 fatty acids stimulate ceramide synthesis, contributing to skin barrier function. However, it lacks RCT confirmation and relies on qualitative reports.