Sea buckthorn, also known in India’s Himalayan regions as the Leh berry, is a thorny shrub native to the cold deserts of Ladakh, particularly in Leh, which has given this fruit its name. Also called miracle berry, it is found in some parts of Central Asia and some regions of Europe. This cold desert berry is celebrated for its rich nutritional profile and wide range of therapeutic applications, from enhancing immunity to revitalizing skin health. Despite its humble appearance, it is packed with nutrients that can promote overall wellness. As modern lifestyles demand natural, effective solutions for health and beauty, sea buckthorn berry extracts are becoming a well-known ingredient.
What Is Sea Buckthorn/Leh Berry?
Botanically called Hippophae rhamnoides, the Sea buckthorn shrub grows in high-altitude regions under extreme climatic conditions. In Ladakh, locals have traditionally used fruit and leaves of this plant for energy, digestive health, and protection against many illnesses due to the harsh mountain environment. Imbued with an impressive nutritional profile, this fruit provides all major omega fatty acids such as Omega 3, 6, 7, and 9, rarely found together in one fruit. These berries are also rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, which play key roles in boosting immunity, maintaining healthy skin, and supporting overall vitality. In addition, they contain powerful antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols, along with essential amino acids and minerals. This unique blend of nutrients makes sea buckthorn one of the most nutritionally complete plant-based foods on earth.
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Top Health Benefits Of Sea Buckthorn Fruit
Boosts Immunity
Sea buckthorn is loaded with vitamin C, which strengthens the immune response. Its antioxidant content helps combat oxidative stress and support white blood cell activity, making it ideal for seasonal immunity boosts.
Supports Heart Health
The berry’s omega-7 fatty acids play a role in regulating cholesterol levels, reducing arterial plaque formation, and improving blood circulation. A blend of fatty acids and antioxidants can also contribute to cardiovascular wellness by helping regulate blood pressure levels.
Promotes Digestive Health
Leh berry has mild laxative properties, which can support a healthy gut microbiome. It can help alleviate conditions like gastric ulcers, acid reflux, and mild to chronic bloating.
Balances Hormones
It is said that sea buckthorn extracts may support hormonal balance, especially in women going through menopause. Omega-7 is known to nourish mucosal membranes, which may relieve vaginal dryness and hormonal discomfort.
Improves Liver Function
Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, sea buckthorn may help detoxify the liver and reduce damage caused by alcohol, toxins, and medications. It enhances the liver's enzymatic activity, thus improving overall metabolic health.
Also Read: Heart-Healthy Recipes Rich In Omega-3 Under 30 Minutes For Cardiac Wellness
Skin Benefits Of Sea Buckthorn
Used both as a dietary supplement and a skincare ingredient, sea buckthorn offers great support for skin vitality, encouraging a nourished complexion from the inside out. One of the best on the list of anti-ageing berries, here are some beauty benefits of its extracts and oil:
Anti-Ageing Properties
Vitamins C and E, coupled with antioxidants in the berry, help combat signs of ageing like wrinkles, sagging, and age spots. These nutrients protect skin from free radical damage and encourage collagen synthesis.
Hydration And Repair Benefits
Sea buckthorn oil is a powerful moisturizer. Omega-7 and omega-6 penetrate deep into the skin layers, hydrating from within and aiding in cell regeneration. It is very effective for dry, flaky, or sensitive skin.
Acne Reduction
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, sea buckthorn oil can be beneficial for acne-prone skin. It helps reduce redness and prevents bacterial growth, making it a natural solution for problematic skin.
Sun Damage and Wound Healing
Sea buckthorn may offer some protection against UV rays due to its antioxidant load. It also supports wound healing, which makes it suitable for treating minor cuts, burns, and even eczema or psoriasis patches.
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In conclusion, from bolstering immunity and heart health to enhancing skin hydration and combating ageing, Leh berry offers an array of health and skin benefits. An amazing fruit blending seamlessly into modern lifestyles, whether you enjoy it as a refreshing juice, take it in capsule form, or apply it as an oil, sea buckthorn is worth exploring. For those looking to enjoy its benefits in a simple and tasty way, sea buckthorn can be prepared as a refreshing wellness juice using just a few ingredients. Check out the recipe:
Sea Buckthorn Wellness Juice
Ingredients
• 1 cup fresh or frozen sea buckthorn berries
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 cups of water
• A few mint leaves
• A pinch of turmeric
• ½ tsp fresh lemon juice
Method
• Rinse the sea buckthorn berries thoroughly under clean water
• In a blender, combine the berries and water
• Strain the mixture using a sieve to remove seeds and pulp
• Add honey, lemon juice, and turmeric
• Pour into a glass, garnish with mint leaves, and serve
(This content is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile: Preeti Sharma
Preeti Sharma has a Master's in Electronic Media and Mass Communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References
Berry fruits: compositional elements, biochemical activities, and the impact of their intake on human health, performance, and disease
Navindra P Seeram
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18211023/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/262298423_SEABUCKTHORN_Leh_Berry_Gold_of_the_Cold_Desert
