The Flawless Superfood: A Deep Dive into Sea Buckthorn
Contents
- 1. What is Sea Buckthorn?
- 2. Why is it Called "Sea" Buckthorn?
- 3. Buckthorn vs. Sea Buckthorn
- 4. Health Benefits and Uses
- 5. Who Should Be Careful?
- 6. Understanding Sea Buckthorn Oil
1. An Ancient Legend: Introducing Sea Buckthorn
Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a hardy plant that produces small, vibrant orange berries. It is one of the oldest plants on Earth, with a history spanning over 200 million years. While the sea buckthorn native range originates in the high-altitude regions of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, it has since spread across various temperate zones.
In traditional medicine, these berries are famous for helping with coughs, aiding digestion, and improving blood circulation. Today, we know they are packed with flavonoids, Vitamin C, and organic acids, making them a top-tier choice for health supplements.

2. Why is it called "Sea Buckthorn"?
You might wonder why it is called “Sea" Buckthorn but it grows in the mountains. The name actually refers to its incredible ability to survive in harsh coastal environments. It thrives in salty, windy, and poor soil conditions found near shorelines or riverbanks. Its ecological role is just as tough as its name suggests—it helps prevent wind erosion and stabilizes sand. So, the name describes its "coastal thorn" nature rather than living inside the water.
3. The Difference of Buckthorn and Sea Buckthorn
It is easy to get confused because of the names, but buckthorn and sea buckthorn are quite different. True buckthorns belong to the Rhamnus genus and are often known for their laxative bark. In North America, some buckthorn species are even considered invasive.
On the other hand, Sea Buckthorn belongs to the Hippophae genus. Instead of being an invasive nuisance, it is a highly valued plant. People prize it for its nutrient-dense berries that are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, far removed from the medicinal bark of the common buckthorn.


4. What Can It Do for You?
This plant is truly a "superfood." It is one of the rare plants that provides a wide range of beneficial fatty acids. Most notably, it is a primary source of omega 7 sea buckthorn oil, which is vital for maintaining healthy mucous membranes and skin.
Skin & Healing
Great for eczema, dryness, and speeding up the healing of minor wounds or burns.
Internal Health
Supports heart health by managing cholesterol and helps soothe digestive issues like ulcers.
5. Important Safety Notes
While it is natural, it is not for everyone. You should speak with a doctor before using it if you:
- Have a bleeding disorder or are planning to have surgery (it can slow blood clotting).
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Have low blood pressure or diabetes (it might interact with your medications).
6. The Magic of Sea Buckthorn Oil
There is a direct link between the sea buckthorn plant and the oil. Sea buckthorn oil is the precious liquid extracted from the fruit pulp or the seeds. Think of it as the "essence" of the plant. Because it is so concentrated, it is a staple in sea buckthorn oil skin care products.
When used topically, it helps with dermatitis and burns. When taken as a supplement, the omega 7 sea buckthorn oil supports your body from the inside out. It is truly a versatile tool for both beauty and wellness.

About the Author
Laicuherb
The core content team at Laicuherb is a collective of experts, including health professionals, consultants in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and experienced content strategists. Some articles are authored by our brand's founders or R&D scientists. Laicuherb team has deep expertise in herbal health, integrating the wisdom of traditional medicine, modern nutrition, and women's health research to transform ancient wellness principles into practical, accessible content for everyday life.








