Packed with antioxidants, berries are considered one of the healthiest foods on planet. While strawberries and blueberries often remain in the spotlight, a lesser known Himalayan berry – Sea Buckthorn – is grabbing attention after an old clip of Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioning the superfood has gone viral. PM Modi urges youth to have this Vitamin C-storehouse regularly for boosting wellness. The bright orange berry is mostly available in Himalayas, Ladakh, parts of Europe and Central Asia and its medicinal properties find mention in 8th-century Tibetan literature.
What is it about this simple berry that makes it extremely beneficial for liver, heart, and digestive health? In a conversation with Financial Express.com, Kiran Dalal, Chief Clinical Nutritionist, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad explains its incredible benefits along with the right way and best time to consume it.
What is Sea Buckthorn and why is it gaining superfood status
Sea Buckthorn or Hippophae rhamnoides is a hardy shrub that produces bright orange berries known for an unusually dense nutrient profile — including very high vitamin C, vitamins A & E, omega fatty acids (3, 6, 7 & 9), flavonoids, carotenoids, and other bioactive compounds. This combination makes it one of the most nutritionally complete plant foods available and a rising superfood globally, says Dalal.
The plant-based food high is also known to slow down aging as per WebMD, which is adding to its popularity as anti-ageing food.
What is most astonishing is its high Vitamin C content which is even more than oranges. Besides, vegans or vegetarians can benefit from its high omega-7 fatty acid.
Dalal says it’s great for your immunity too considering anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-supporting phytonutrients. Sea buckthorn is known by various names in different parts of the world. The Dutch called them ‘laxative fruits’ because the acids in the fruit stimulate the intestinal transit, according to National Institutes of Health.
Is Sea Buckthorn easily available in India?
Sea Buckthorn grows naturally in cold, high-altitude regions of India, especially in parts of the Himalayas such as Ladakh, as well as Himachal Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh. Apart from the full fruit, in India one may also find it in form of bottled juice, capsule, dried, or in powdered form.
Health benefits of Sea Buckthorn
Sea Buckthorn with its high Vitamin C and antioxidants profile supports the immune system and reduces seasonal infection risk, says Dalal.
Its healthy fats and phytochemicals may help lower bad cholesterol and support circulation, elevating overall heart health. The fruit’s anti-inflammatory properties assist gut lining health and smoother digestion.
Sea Buckthorn’s high Omega-7 content supports hydration and elasticity, promoting a natural glow and anti-aging effects. Also its Vitamin A and fatty acids nourish vision and support hair strength.
Best ways to add it to your diet
While whole fruit is the best option, one can also add 15–30 ml of the juice in a glass of warm water to enjoy it as a morning drink. In powdered form, it can be added to smoothies, breakfast bowls, or yoghurt, to add a powerful dose of nutrients to morning meals, says Dalal.
Tea: Starting your day with a cup of Sea Buckthorn tea can give you a boost of immunity. Add dried berries or leaves to a cup of warm water and strain, suggests the dietitian.
It can also be added to salad dressings, dips, and jams for added tang and nutrients.
Best time to consume
Dalal says the superfood can be consumed either on an empty stomach or post meal for best benefits.
Morning on an empty stomach can support immunity and digestion.
If juice is too tart, take post-meals or with honey to reduce acidity.
Side effects
“Sea Buckthorn is generally safe when used responsibly, but some people may experience mild digestive discomfort (acidity, nausea) due to its acidic nature. One may also notice colour changes in urine because of pigments, which is considered harmless,” says the dietitian.
Dalal however warns that people on blood-thinning medications must consult a healthcare provider first before consuming it. Besides, pregnant or breastfeeding women would also need a medical advice before starting it. People prone to allergies must start it with a small amount to test tolerance, says the dietitian.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While the author has incorporated expert medical guidance while producing the story and ensured full authentic information is provided to the reader, you should always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.
