The miracle Berry: Unveiling the therapeutic attributes of sea buckthorn – A review

Abstract

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is a versatile plant renowned for its exceptional nutritional and therapeutic properties. Native to mountainous regions of Asia and Europe, it has been traditionally utilized for its medicinal benefits. Its promising nutritional profile highlighted by significant levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with omega-7 palmitoleic acid and vitamin C content makes it unique from other plants. Omega-7 palmitoleic acid is an extremely beneficial MUFA that can be crucial in treating different metabolic disorders. Its valuable role in glucose metabolism, skin health, liver functions, inflammatory diseases etc. has been well-reported in the literature. In addition, sea buckthorn has a range of bioactive compounds like antioxidants, polyphenols, flavonoids, sugars, organic acids, vitamins, and minerals that are cardinal for added health benefits. These compounds contribute to the therapeutic potential of sea buckthorn delivering antioxidants, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, immune boosting and cardio-protective properties. This review sums up the chemical composition, botanical features, uses and therapeutic properties of sea buckthorn to unveil its extraordinary potential and its possible inclusion in routine therapies to improve human health its possible inclusion in routine therapies to improve human health. However, further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of the plant.

Keywords

• Sea buckthorn
• Palmitoleic acid
• Bioactive compounds
• Lifestyle related disorders
• Cancer
• Immunity