Introduction
Sea buckthorn oil has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy for various health concerns. Extracted from the berries, leaves, and seeds of the Hippophae rhamnoides plant, this golden oil thrives in the high-altitude regions of the northwest Himalayas. It can be applied topically or taken orally to support overall wellness.
Often called the “holy fruit of the Himalayas,” sea buckthorn is a staple in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is renowned for promoting healthy skin, hair, heart function, and even reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Below are 11 science-backed benefits of this powerful, nutrient-rich oil.
Table of Contents
1. Nutrient-Dense Superfood
Sea buckthorn is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Its high antioxidant content helps protect the body from aging, heart disease, and even cancer.
Key Nutrients in Sea Buckthorn:
✔ Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, K, and E, essential for immune function, skin health, and overall vitality.
✔ Minerals: Contains iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, and zinc, supporting bone strength, heart health, and muscle function.
✔ Phytosterols: These plant compounds help reduce cholesterol absorption, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease.
✔ Omega Fatty Acids (3, 6, 7, 9): One of the few plant sources providing all four essential omega fatty acids, crucial for brain, skin, and heart health.
Why Sea Buckthorn Oil is Special
The oil, extracted from either the seeds or berries, is particularly valuable. It is rich in palmitoleic acid, a compound naturally found in human skin, which is believed to accelerate wound healing and maintain skin hydration.
Additionally, more than half of its fat content consists of healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats, making it a heart-friendly addition to any diet.
2. Protects and Nourishes Your Skin
For centuries, sea buckthorn oil has been a trusted natural remedy for skin health. Thanks to its rich combination of healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, it helps protect, heal, and rejuvenate the skin.
Key Skin Benefits of Sea Buckthorn Oil:
✔ Speeds Up Wound Healing – Contains palmitoleic acid, a natural skin lipid that promotes faster healing of burns, cuts, and wounds.
✔ Hydrates and Repairs – Loaded with omega-6 fatty acids, including linoleic acid (LA), which helps combat acne, psoriasis, and dry skin.
✔ Fights Inflammation – Includes gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), known for reducing eczema, redness, and irritation.
✔ Shields Against UV Damage – Certain compounds in sea buckthorn oil may protect the skin from sun-induced aging (photoaging).
✔ Anti-Aging & Wrinkle Reduction – Packed with carotenoids, vitamins E & K, and phytosterols, which help improve skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging.
Is It Scientifically Proven?
While sea buckthorn is widely used in skincare, human studies are still limited. However, one study showed a reduction in psoriasis symptoms after applying a sea buckthorn extract for 4–8 weeks.
It’s no wonder sea buckthorn oil is found in many anti-aging creams, hydrating serums, and soothing skincare products!
3. Supports Heart Health
Sea buckthorn oil is a heart-friendly superfood packed with powerful compounds that help protect against heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
How Sea Buckthorn Oil Benefits Your Heart:
✔ Lowers Bad Cholesterol (LDL) – Contains phytosterols, plant compounds that reduce cholesterol absorption and prevent artery blockages.
✔ Reduces Inflammation & Oxidative Stress – High in quercetin, an antioxidant linked to a lower risk of heart disease.
✔ Supports Healthy Blood Flow – May help reduce blood clot formation, though more research is needed.
✔ Lowers Blood Pressure & Triglycerides – A 30-day study found that just 0.15 teaspoons (0.75 mL) of sea buckthorn oil daily lowered blood pressure, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol in people with high cholesterol.
Who Benefits Most?
🔹 Individuals with high cholesterol or high blood pressure saw the most improvement.
🔹 Effects were less pronounced in people with already healthy levels.
With its heart-protective nutrients, sea buckthorn oil is a great addition to a heart-healthy diet!
4. Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Sea buckthorn oil may support healthy blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes by improving insulin function.
How It Works:
✔ Enhances Insulin Sensitivity – Helps your cells respond better to insulin, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
✔ Supports Insulin Release – Encourages your body to produce more insulin when needed, keeping blood sugar levels stable.
✔ Rich in Antioxidants – Reduces inflammation that contributes to blood sugar spikes.
Scientific Evidence:
📌 Animal studies show that sea buckthorn oil can help lower blood sugar by improving insulin function.
📌 Human study (38 participants) – Drinking 3 ounces (90 mL) of sea buckthorn purée daily for 5 weeks led to a small but significant drop in fasting blood sugar compared to a placebo.
Final Thoughts
While research is still limited, sea buckthorn oil shows promising potential in blood sugar management. Adding it to a balanced diet may help support metabolic health and reduce diabetes risk.
5. Boosts Your Immune System
Sea buckthorn oil is packed with immune-boosting nutrients that help protect your body from infections and illnesses.
How It Works:
✔ Rich in Flavonoids – Powerful plant compounds that strengthen immunity and help the body fight off infections.
✔ Supports Antiviral Defense – Laboratory studies suggest it may help protect against influenza, herpes, and even HIV.
✔ Loaded with Antioxidants – Neutralizes harmful free radicals, reducing stress on the immune system.
Scientific Evidence:
📌 Lab studies show that sea buckthorn oil contains compounds that can inhibit viruses and support immune function.
📌 Antioxidant-rich properties may help the body fight off microbes and reduce the risk of infections.
Final Thoughts
While human studies are still limited, early research suggests that sea buckthorn oil could be a natural way to support immune health. Adding it to your diet might help keep your immune system strong and resilient.
6. Supports Liver Health
Your liver plays a vital role in detoxifying your body, and sea buckthorn oil can help protect and support its function.
Why It Works:
✔ Rich in Antioxidants – Protects liver cells from damage caused by toxins and oxidative stress.
✔ Loaded with Healthy Fats & Vitamin E – Supports liver regeneration and reduces inflammation.
✔ Carotenoids & Omega Fatty Acids – Help maintain optimal liver function.
Scientific Evidence:
📌 Animal Study – Sea buckthorn oil significantly improved liver function markers in rats with liver damage.
📌 Human Study (6-Month Trial) – People with cirrhosis who took sea buckthorn extract had better liver function markers than those who took a placebo.
Final Thoughts
While early studies are promising, more human research is needed to confirm these benefits. Still, adding sea buckthorn oil to your routine might naturally support liver health and function.
7. Potential Anticancer Properties
Sea buckthorn oil is packed with powerful compounds that may help fight cancer and protect healthy cells.
Why It Works:
✔ Rich in Flavonoids – Contains quercetin, a natural compound that may kill cancer cells.
✔ Loaded with Antioxidants – Carotenoids & Vitamin E help reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to cancer growth.
✔ Supports Cellular Protection – May help shield healthy cells from radiation damage during cancer treatments.
Scientific Evidence:
📌 Lab & Animal Studies – Sea buckthorn extracts have shown potential to slow cancer cell spread and inhibit tumor growth.
📌 Radiation Protection – Some studies suggest it may reduce damage to healthy cells during radiotherapy.
Final Thoughts
While early research is promising, more human studies are needed. However, including sea buckthorn oil in your diet may offer powerful antioxidant benefits that support overall cellular health.
8–11. Additional Potential Benefits
Beyond its well-known advantages, sea buckthorn oil may offer several other health perks—though some require further research.
8. Supports Digestive Health
🔹 Protects the Stomach Lining – Animal studies suggest it may help prevent and heal stomach ulcers. (18)
9. Eases Menopausal Symptoms
🔹 Natural Relief for Vaginal Dryness – May serve as an effective alternative for postmenopausal women lacking access to estrogen therapy.
10. Soothes Dry Eyes
🔹 Reduces Redness & Irritation – Research links daily consumption of sea buckthorn to less eye discomfort.
11. Strengthens & Revitalizes Hair
🔹 Balances Oil Production – Contains lecithin, which helps remove excess oil and repair damaged hair while improving elasticity.
While these benefits are promising, more human studies are needed to confirm their full effects.
Potential Side Effects of Sea Buckthorn Oil
Sea buckthorn oil has been used for centuries and is generally well-tolerated. However, some potential side effects include:
🔹 Mild Digestive Discomfort & Joint Pain – In a study, a few participants experienced these symptoms after 3 months of use (19).
🔹 Limited Safety Data – While animal studies suggest no toxicity, human safety trials are still lacking.
🔹 Precautions for Certain Groups – There’s no research on its safety for pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or those taking medications.
⚠ If you experience any adverse reactions, stop using it and consult your doctor—especially if symptoms persist.
The Bottom Line
Sea buckthorn oil is a nutrient-rich natural remedy with benefits for skin, heart health, immunity, and even disease prevention.
While it has a long history in traditional medicine and is generally safe, it’s best to consult your doctor before adding it to your routine—especially for long-term use.