Penn Herb Wellness Guide

Sea BuckthornFind Products

Also indexed as:Buckthorn (Sea), Hippophae rhamnoides
Sea Buckthorn: Main Image
Botanical names:
Hippophae rhamnoides

Parts Used & Where Grown

Sea buckthorn berries are used, either as the whole berry, berry puree or juice, or the oil derived from the fruit or its seeds. The plant is native to Europe and Asia.
  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement,little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for AmountWhy
Burns
Refer to label instructions 2 stars[2 stars]
Sea buckthorn extracts may speed the healing of skin injuries, including burns.
Cardiovascular Disease
10 mg three times daily of a flavonoid extract of sea buckthorn for six weeks 2 stars[2 stars]
Sea buckthorn berries, their oil, or flavonoid-rich extracts of the fruit have lowered biochemical indicators of increased cardiovascular risk in some, though not all, preliminary and double-blind human studies.
Dry Eye Syndrome
2 grams per day of sea buckthorn oil for three months 2 stars[2 stars]
Sea buckthorn oil contains large amounts of essential fatty acids that are thought to be helpful for both preventing dry eye syndrome and reducing its severity.
Liver Cirrhosis
15 grams three times daily of sea buckthorn extract 2 stars[2 stars]
Preliminary research suggests that sea buckthorn may improve indicators of liver damage.
Type 1 Diabetes
Refer to label instructions 2 stars[2 stars]
Animal and preliminary research suggests a connection between sea buckthorn and improved measures of blood sugar control.
Common Cold and Sore Throat
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Sea buckthorn has been shown in animal studies to have immune system-enhancing and anti-inflammatory properties, though a clinical trial did not find benefit.
Eczema
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Sea buckthorn oil contains large amounts of essential fatty acids that are important to skin health inflammation control.
High Cholesterol
0.75 ml sea buckthorn oil daily1 star[1 star]
Sea buckthorn contains flavonoids and essential fatty acids that may reduce high cholesterol levels, but little supportive evidence exists.
Hypertension
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
A limited body of research suggests sea buckthorn may have blood pressure–lowering effects.
Peptic Ulcer
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Sea buckthorn contains flavonoids and other constituents that promote healing. It has been associated with peptic ulcer improvement, though more research is needed.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

Sea buckthorn has been used as a traditional herbal remedy in central and eastern Asia for respiratory, skin, and gastrointestinal conditions, and to reduce fever and inflammation.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.