East Asia is considered the homeland of sea buckthorn. Locals fondly call these trees “holy fruits”. In China, the benefits of sea buckthorn have been known for 12 centuries. And according to the Mongolian legend, Genghis Khan and his army used exactly these berries before each victorious battle.
The uniqueness of sea buckthorn is known even today. In the bright orange fruit, researchers have found an amazing array of omega-3s (omega-6, -9, -7 and rare omega-XNUMX fatty acids) and is also full of minerals and vitamins. That is why in many countries for centuries sea buckthorn has been used to strengthen the immune system, lower cholesterol, slow down aging, and treat skin diseases. And that’s not all the benefits of a vibrant plant.
Botanical characteristic
Sea buckthorn is a thorny shrub of the Lokhovye family, common in Europe and Asia. As a rule, the plant thrives best on the sandy banks of rivers and other bodies of water. Despite the huge variety of varieties, there are only two types of sea buckthorn: buckthorn and willow .… The first variety is a shrub from 1 to 6 m in height, while the second can grow up to 15 m.
In our latitudes, it is the buckthorn buckthorn that is most widespread. At the end of April, this deciduous plant is covered with flowers. In autumn, small berries appear in their place, which tightly stick around the branches of the plant (hence its name). Sea buckthorn fruits, depending on the variety, are round, oblong or ovoid. Their color can vary from pale yellow to deep red.
Sea buckthorn is a dioecious plant. This means that for a good harvest for every five female bushes, the presence of at least one male is desirable. For those who dream of growing sea buckthorn, it is important to know that this plant does not like shade, but at the same time it is moisture-loving, therefore it needs regular watering. But frosts are not terrible for this tree. Even in the most climatically harsh regions of Russia, sea buckthorn grows well and bears fruit. The crown of the tree even tolerates 50-degree frosts, and the roots are not afraid of soil freezing down to -20 ° C.
Under optimal conditions, the tree is capable of producing crops regularly for 20 years, and its total lifespan can be up to 50 years. By the way, the largest sea buckthorn plantations grow in China. There, back in the 1980s, almost 300 thousand hectares were planted with these trees. Today in the Celestial Empire there are one and a half hundred factories producing more than 200 different sea buckthorn products.
Chemical composition and nutritional characteristics
Sea buckthorn berries contain 10 different vitamins, 24 trace elements, 18 amino acids (including essential ones), 22 types of fatty acids, and even larger reserves of proteins farmer-online.com… In total, sea buckthorn berry contains almost 200 different phytochemical components. In terms of the amount of vitamin C, this plant is second only to rose hips, cayenne and red peppers. Interestingly, oranges contain 10 times less ascorbic acid than sea buckthorn. In addition, these berries are among the leaders in the content of vitamin E (ranked second after nuts and seeds). They also contain many flavonoids, by the way, the same ones that were found in the famous ginkgo biloba: quercetin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol.
Another unique feature of sea buckthorn is associated with B vitamins. Previously, it was believed that no plant product contains a biologically significant concentration of vitamin B12. Meanwhile, clinical studies have shown that these orange berries contain the same amount of vitamin B12 as pork liver. farmer-online.com… This means that sea buckthorn is able to protect against vitamin deficiency, anemia, digestive disorders, dysfunction of the nervous system and damage to the mucous membranes. It is also known that sea buckthorn contains phytoncides – herbal antibiotics that have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Sea buckthorn contains many varieties of triterpenes and sterols, including ursolic acid, carophylline and sitosterol, on which the strength of blood vessels depends. The berries, seeds, stems and leaves of sea buckthorn contain about a hundred different types of oils and fatty acids, including lauric, myristic, palmitic, hexadecene, stearic, oleic, linoleic, linolenic and others. Phenolic substances and organic acids in sea buckthorn (reminiscent of the set contained in cranberries) are more than 14 items, the use of which is to prevent atherosclerosis and hypertension, improve vascular elasticity. In addition, sea buckthorn is rich in essential oils that prevent excessive blood clotting, the formation of clots that cause thrombosis and thrombophlebitis.
The benefits and harms of sea buckthorn
Almost all parts of this plant have healing properties: leaves, berries and roots help with various disorders in the body. The results of many observations indicate that sea buckthorn can be useful in the presence of the following pathologies ..:
- ulcers of the stomach and duodenum with low acidity of the stomach;
- pharyngitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis;
- skin diseases;
- infectious diseases;
- deterioration of the brain and nervous system;
- various inflammations;
- pathology of the cardiovascular system;
- cervical erosion;
- liver disease.
The healing properties of sea buckthorn are as follows ..:
- cancer prevention;
- lower cholesterol;
- strengthening immunity;
- decreased appetite (due to omega-7);
- improving the condition of the skin and hair;
- neutralization of free radicals;
- slowing down the aging process of the body;
- improving the work of internal organs;
- improvement of the condition of the mucous membranes;
- maintenance of the genitourinary system.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women belong to the group of people who are contraindicated in excessive passion for sea buckthorn. Do not use berries together with anticoagulants, as bleeding is possible.
It is not recommended to include sea buckthorn in the diet for people suffering from the following pathologies ....:
- idiosyncrasy;
- cholelithiasis;
- gastritis with high acidity;
- diseases of the liver and gallbladder of an acute form.
Role in the body
Treats inflammation and arthritis
The extract obtained from sea buckthorn leaves helps in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. This conclusion was made by scientists after an experiment carried out on laboratory mice. .… Researchers say a similar effect is possible in the human body.
Provides antioxidant effects
Sea buckthorn juice has strong antioxidant properties. But not so long ago it became known that similar abilities are inherent in the leaves of the plant. In particular, infusions and decoctions from sea buckthorn leaves, along with berry juice, are useful for the prevention of age-related diseases, including cardiovascular pathologies, macular degeneration, and Alzheimer’s disease.
These same products are effective in treating acne and also help prevent early wrinkles and sagging skin.
Has an antibacterial effect
Sea buckthorn extract inhibits the reproduction of bacteria pathogenic for the human body. In particular, this berry can be useful for the treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, enterococci 1.
Strengthens the cardiovascular system
In Chinese medicine, sea buckthorn is known as a herbal medicine for the heart and blood vessels. The researchers found that against the background of a two-month consumption of berries, blood pressure decreases, the heart rate normalizes, the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream decreases, which together reduces the load on the heart and blood vessels. In addition, the berries have been found to contain flavonoid substances that facilitate blood flow to the heart.
Prevents cancer
Some Studies Show Sea Buckthorn Berry Extract May Protect Against Cancer ..… Due to its antioxidant properties, sea buckthorn protects cells of the human body from mutations, and also helps to activate proteins, the role of which is to protect against mutagens.
Improves skin condition
One of the components of sea buckthorn is palmitoleic acid (omega-7), which is also present in human skin. It is thanks to this substance that sea buckthorn oil is an excellent remedy for healing burns and wounds, eliminating skin diseases and infections. In addition, the oil promotes skin regeneration and protects it from UV radiation.
Helpful for diabetes
Researchers are still investigating the benefits of sea buckthorn for people with diabetes. But experiments have already proven that the berry is useful for regulating sugar in the bloodstream. ..… It not only lowers glucose levels, but also prevents hypo- and hyperglycemia.
Helps to lose weight
Most people know that being overweight can cause all sorts of health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. In the leaves of sea buckthorn, scientists have found several chemical compounds at once that accelerate the breakdown of fats and contribute to getting rid of excess weight.
Leaf Benefits
Sea buckthorn leaves are no less rich in healing components. The greens of this plant are used as a medicinal herb in many countries. Researchers have found that the leaves of this tree have anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for treating arthritis. In addition, sea buckthorn leaf extract promotes the regeneration of liver cells during inflammation. The tannins, catechins, vitamin E, carotenoids, ferulic acid, flavonoids and salicylic acid contained in the leaves are useful in eliminating inflammation and scavenging free radicals. Thanks to beta-carotene, the plant’s leaf products are beneficial for skin care, including moisturizing, and soothing irritations and inflammations. The drink made from sea buckthorn leaves is very reminiscent of green tea. It goes well with citrus fruits and tastes good both hot and cold.
Use in folk medicine
In ancient times, herbalists used sea buckthorn to treat many diseases. For example, sea buckthorn juice was once used to treat intestinal disorders and low stomach acidity. A drink made from berries was advised to drink for rheumatism, diabetes mellitus, vitamin deficiency and disorders of the digestive tract. A decoction made from berry seeds is useful for chronic constipation (a tablespoon of seeds is taken in a glass of water). It is good to use such a medicine in a tablespoon three times a day. A decoction of tree leaves also has healing properties. It is recommended for the treatment of scurvy, vitamin deficiency, salt deposits, gout and rheumatism. An infusion of leaves helps to get rid of periodontal disease and sore throat, and a decoction from the branches is good to drink for stomach upsets. Sea buckthorn bark drink is advised to be consumed to treat dysentery, as well as to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. As a general tonic, folk healers recommend drinking tea from a mixture of sea buckthorn leaves, mint, raspberries and strawberries. No less useful is a drink made from sea buckthorn juice (3 l), infusion of oregano (3 l), honey (2 kg) and alcohol (2 l). Such a remedy in folk medicine is known as a medicine against atherosclerosis and respiratory diseases. It is good to drink to eliminate toxins and radionuclides, but it is also suitable for external use for eczema, burns and frostbite. Sea buckthorn oil, which has also been used since ancient times by traditional healers and herbalists, is extremely useful.
Use in cooking
Sea buckthorn berries are great for making jams, juices, toppings for pies, sauces, marmalades, various desserts. Here are some culinary ideas.
Sea buckthorn concentrate
To prepare a sea buckthorn concentrate, you need to squeeze the juice out of the berries and add granulated sugar to it in a 1: 1 ratio. You do not need to boil such a product. Stir well, pour into a vessel and place in the basement or refrigerator. After three weeks, strain through cheesecloth and store in a cool place. The resulting concentrate is consumed in a diluted form (a glass of water is added to 2 tablespoons of juice).
Berry Jam
Boil syrup from one and a half kilograms of sugar and a glass of water. Add 1 kg of pure berries to a boiling sweet liquid. The mixture is brought to a boil and removed from heat. After 8-12 hours, bring to a boil again and pour into sterilized jars.
Berry jam
Mix berries and sugar in proportions 1: 1 and 10 minutes to simmer on the fire (it is important that the mixture does not boil). Pour the boiling jam into hot, sterilized jars and close hermetically.
Fragrant Vinegar
To prepare the tincture, you will need apple cider vinegar, two glasses of sea buckthorn berries, a few sprigs of rosemary and a glass vessel. Wash and dry the berries (you can spread them out on a paper towel and leave overnight). Then put them in a glass jar (sterilized jar), add a few sprigs of rosemary. Meanwhile, bring the apple cider vinegar to a boil (but not boil) and pour the contents of the jar with the hot liquid. Close tightly and put in a dark place for a month to infuse. Ready vinegar tincture can be used in cooking for dressing salads or drunk as a healing drink (diluting a few teaspoons with a glass of water).
Meat sauce
Traditionally, sea buckthorn berry sauce is served with meat, but many gourmets also like to combine it with fish and vegetable dishes. To prepare sea buckthorn sauce, fresh ripe berries must be rubbed through a sieve. Add sugar to the puree (a glass of sugar is taken for a glass of berries) and a quarter glass of water. Mix everything and cook a little (remove the foam during cooking). Add a quarter glass of wine to the finished puree (either white or red is suitable) and again, stirring, boil. You can serve this sauce hot or cold.
Used in cosmetics
The rich chemical composition of sea buckthorn determines its benefits for the skin, hair and nails. They say that the regular use of products with the extract of this berry works wonders. Due to the presence of antioxidants and vitamins, sea buckthorn cosmetics help to prevent and smooth even deep wrinkles. Omega-substances are useful for nourishing and eliminating skin imperfections, and the oils contained in berries are excellent for moisturizing.
Antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fats nourish and strengthen hair, eliminate dry skin and dull curls. It is useful to use products with plant extract for nail care. In particular, with excessive dryness, brittleness and dullness of the nail plate, it is recommended to rub sea buckthorn oil, creams with plant extract or even pure berry juice into the nail and cuticle.
For dry skin
Masks with sea buckthorn juice will help moisturize very dry skin. To do this, a cotton swab must be soaked in juice and applied to the skin of the face. You can soak a gauze napkin in juice and apply it on your face. The product should remain on the skin for about 15-20 minutes.
Against wrinkles
Freshly squeezed juice or sea buckthorn pulp is mixed with the yolk of a chicken egg or with fresh cream. The mixture is applied to the face for 30 minutes. The procedure is recommended to be carried out 2-3 times a week.
Against bags under the eyes
Pour a tablespoon of fresh sea buckthorn leaves with a glass of boiling water and insist. When the liquid has cooled, strain. Soak cotton swabs in it and apply to the eyelids for 10 minutes.
Against hair loss
Grind the berries and leaves of the sea buckthorn into a gruel. Apply the resulting product to the scalp, wrap with foil and a warm towel, keep for at least 30 minutes. Against hair loss, it is also useful to rinse the curls with an aqueous extract from the leaves of the tree.
Mask for hands and nails
Mix honey and juice or sea buckthorn oil. Apply to hands and nails. Keep at least 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
The recipes given are only a small part of what can be prepared from sea buckthorn berries and leaves. Remember: all parts of the plant are good for skin, hair and nails. By mixing different components, you can create your own beauty recipes based on the wonderful sea buckthorn berry. By the way, it is good to combine sea buckthorn with chamomile, oak bark and many other medicinal herbs.
Sea buckthorn has a long history of use as a medicinal product. As far back as a thousand years ago, these berries were used in Tibetan and Indian medicine to treat cough, for digestive disorders, and to improve blood circulation. Sea buckthorn does not lose its popularity today. It would seem that mankind already knows everything about these berries, but scientists claim that this is not so, and continue to make amazing discoveries about the beneficial properties of the “holy fruits” from Tibet.
Sources of
- ↑ Ivan Dubrovin. – Healing sea buckthorn.
- ↑ ResearchGate. – The Anticancer Activity of Sea Buckthorn (Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A. Nelson).
- ↑ Royal Society of Chemistry Publishing. – Hypoglycemic and anti-inflammatory effects of seabuckthorn seed protein in diabetic ICR mice.
