sea ​​buckthorn

Sea buckthorn is a vitamin-rich and versatile berry. It is a popular ingredient in various foods, cosmetics and even medicines. But what exactly is sea buckthorn, how is it used and how does it affect health?

In this article, we look at the different aspects of sea buckthorn to give you a better understanding of this versatile fruit. We will look at the origin of sea buckthorn, its nutritional and health benefits, its uses in cooking and cosmetics, and the requirements for growing and caring for it.

So you can decide if sea buckthorn could be a good addition to your everyday life.

I. Origin and distribution of sea buckthorn

Sea buckthorn is a blueberry native to Europe, North Africa and the Near East. It is distributed throughout Europe to Russia and Asia Minor.

Sea buckthorn can grow as a native plant or as a crop. In northern Europe and Russia it usually grows wild in low shrubs, in southern European countries it is mostly grown in gardens and as an ornamental plant.

The fruits of the sea buckthorn are mainly grown in northern Europe, but also in parts of southern Europe and Asia Minor for food and cosmetics.

Properties of sea buckthorn

• can grow both as a native and as a cultivated plant
• Distribution from Europe, North Africa and the Near East to Russia and Asia Minor
• grows wild and cultivated
• Fruits are mainly grown in northern Europe, but also in parts of southern Europe and Asia Minor.

Where does sea buckthorn come from?

Sea buckthorn, also called sea buckthorn berry or sea buckthorn bush, is a species of shrub native to Europe from the rose family. It is grown in some countries of Northern Europe, China and Japan. Sea Buckthorn is a very adaptable plant that grows in cold and warm climates, even on the coast and on rocks.

Sea buckthorn is one of the oldest fruit species in the world. It has been used as a food and as a natural remedy for centuries. In folk medicine, it has long been used as a remedy for a wide variety of ailments:

• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
• Inflammatory skin diseases
• deficiency symptoms
• exhaustion and listlessness

According to the official European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), sea buckthorn can help strengthen the immune system and protect the body from oxidative stress.

Sea buckthorn is an original plant found in some regions of Asia and the Mediterranean in harsh areas. Today, however, it is also grown in many other countries, including China, Japan, Germany, Sweden, Russia and other northern European countries.

How did sea buckthorn spread?

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), also known as sea berry, is a low-growing plant found in temperate climates. It originally comes from the Mediterranean region, Central Asia and North America. Sea buckthorn has been growing in Europe for around 10,000 years and has long been used as a medicine, dietary supplement and forage crop.

Today, sea buckthorn is widespread, especially in Europe. It is grown in countries like Finland, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Poland and many other European countries. The annual production of sea buckthorn in Europe is estimated at 10,000 to 20,000 tons.

Sea buckthorn can be grown in a number of ways, e.g. B. as a cultivated plant, in forest gardens or as a wild plant. Growing in plantations is one of the most effective ways to harvest sea buckthorn, as it produces the highest yields.

The sea buckthorn has also spread outside of Europe. It is grown in Russia, China, India and Japan. Some of the highest quality sea buckthorn varieties are grown in North America, primarily in Canada.

Over time, sea buckthorn has gained great importance as a food and natural remedy and today it can be used in many different ways.

Sea buckthorn is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and protect tissue. In addition, sea buckthorn contains essential fatty acids that are necessary for healthy skin and a healthy cardiovascular system.

What types of sea buckthorn are there?

Sea buckthorn is a member of the oleaster family and can be grown as a hedge plant or as a shrub. There are two main varieties: Oblepikha and Narrow-Leaf Sea Buckthorn.

The Oblepikha variety, also known as Siberian sea buckthorn, is one of the most common sea buckthorn varieties. It is the most common sea buckthorn species in Central Europe and a native part of the flora in many regions. Oblepikha sea buckthorn products are often available as oil or juice.

There is also another variety, the narrow-leaved sea buckthorn, which is less common. This strain is primarily native to parts of East Asia and parts of Central and South America.

Sea buckthorn products from both varieties are available in concentrated form as juice, extract, concentrate or powder . Sea buckthorn products are often also offered as fruit jelly or jam, which often have a delicious sweet and sour taste.

There are also various sea buckthorn products for cosmetic purposes, such as creams, lotions and soaps.

All of these products are rich in vitamins and other nutrients, especially vitamin C. There is evidence that sea buckthorn can support the normal functioning of the immune system and digestive tract.

II. Nutrients and Health Benefits of Sea Buckthorn

Sea buckthorn can be a healthy dietary supplement as it is rich in vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. These include vitamins C, A, E and K, potassium , calcium, phosphorus and magnesium as well as phytochemicals such as lycopene, lutein , ß-carotene and anthocyanins.

Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties and can help prevent the common cold. Vitamins A, E and K play important roles in eye and skin health and contribute to a healthy immune system.

Calcium is essential for healthy bone metabolism and phosphorus helps maintain hormone production and energy metabolism in the body. Potassium contributes to healthy heart function.

The following health-related properties of sea buckthorn have been confirmed according to the official guidelines of the European Food and Feed Safety Authority (EFSA):

• Vitamin C contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system and mental functions.
• Vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and vision.
• Vitamin E protects cells from oxidative stress
• Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting
• Calcium and phosphorus contribute to normal bone and tooth mineralization.

What nutrients does sea buckthorn contain?

Sea buckthorn is rich in vitamins, minerals and secondary plant substances. Best known is its high vitamin C content. However, it also contains many other nutrients that can have a positive effect on health. Listed below are the nutrients found in 100 grams of sea buckthorn:

• Vitamin C: Sea buckthorn contains a lot of vitamin C , which supports the body in many functions. It strengthens the immune system and protects the body from oxidative stress.
• Vitamin A: Sea buckthorn contains large amounts of vitamin A , which is important for vision and a healthy immune system.
• Vitamin E: Sea buckthorn also contains vitamin E , a very important antioxidant . It protects cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• B Vitamins: Sea buckthorn contains all the B vitamins that the body needs for healthy function. Thiamine, riboflavin and folic acid in particular are abundant.
• Minerals: Sea buckthorn is rich in minerals such as potassium , magnesium, calcium and phosphorus. They help the body maintain a healthy nervous system and heart.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids are a class of phytochemicals with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties. Sea buckthorn contains a significant amount of it.

How does sea buckthorn affect health?

The sea buckthorn berry has many positive properties. The berry is rich in vitamins C , E and A, minerals and fatty acids. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for overall health.

The sea buckthorn fruit is also referred to as a superfood because of its many health-promoting properties. The high vitamin C content supports a healthy immune system and contributes to healthy skin. It also contains vitamin E , an antioxidant that protects cells from free radicals.

Sea buckthorn also helps keep blood pressure and blood sugar levels under control. A study published in the journal Nutrients showed that when consumed regularly, sea buckthorn can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. It can also help control blood sugar levels in diabetics.

Sea buckthorn may also help prevent and treat gastrointestinal disorders such as constipation and diarrhea. According to a study by the University of Jena, eating sea buckthorn fruits can improve digestion and relieve symptoms of constipation.

According to the official health seal of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), sea buckthorn can also help

• Support of the immune system
• Reducing oxidative stress
• Reducing the risk of blood clots
• Heart health support
• Support of the cellular oxygen supply
• support of the nervous system

Can sea buckthorn help with certain diseases?

Rich in vitamins and nutrients, sea buckthorn has been shown over the years to be an effective remedy for a number of health problems. Research suggests sea buckthorn may boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and lower blood pressure.

Although the effectiveness of sea buckthorn in certain diseases has not been clearly established, there are numerous studies that support the therapeutic properties of this fruit.

There are a number of clinical studies showing that sea buckthorn can help with the following ailments:

• Diabetes: Several studies have shown that sea buckthorn can lower blood sugar levels and stimulate insulin production.
• Heart Disease: Sea buckthorn may help lower cholesterol , which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• High blood pressure: Again, sea buckthorn can help lower blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.
• Stomach and Digestive Discomfort: Sea buckthorn may help relieve stomach discomfort associated with inflammation of the lining of the stomach.
• Fatigue: Sea buckthorn can help increase energy and reduce fatigue.
• Alzheimer's Disease: Sea buckthorn may help improve memory and alertness, which may relieve some symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

III. Use of sea buckthorn in the kitchen

Sea buckthorn has many uses in the kitchen. The fresh berries can be eaten on their own or processed into juices, jellies and jams. When dried, they can be used to prepare delicious snacks or baked goods. With its strong aroma, sea buckthorn is also suitable as a spice for sauces or as an ingredient in salads.

Possibilities of using sea buckthorn in the kitchen:

• Sea buckthorn juice: The high-quality juice has a fresh, sweet taste and is ideal as a winter juice and soft drink.
• Sea buckthorn jam: The fruity taste of sea buckthorn jam is a delicious and healthy ingredient for spreads and desserts.
• Sweets: Dried sea buckthorn berries with their full-bodied aroma are a good choice for sweets such as pastries or biscuits that need to have a special taste.
• Spices & Salads: Sea buckthorn is also suitable as a spice for sauces or as an ingredient in salads. In this way, the many vitamins and minerals - such as vitamin A , vitamin E and vitamin C - go directly to the plate. These vitamins contribute to the normal functioning of the immune system.

**According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) approved health claim number: EFSA-Q-2013-00116

How does sea buckthorn taste?

Described as sweet and tart, sea buckthorn is a common flavor. It is a blend of sweet aroma and various acids that can range from slightly bitter to very acidic. Sea buckthorn is not a typical berry, but nonetheless has an aroma that is recognized as unique.

Sea buckthorn fruits have an orange, thick skin and white, fibrous flesh. The small seeds are also white and have a sweet and sour taste. The seeds are suitable as an ingredient for salads, soups and smoothies.

The acidity of sea buckthorn comes mainly from citric acid and similar acidic components. The sweet taste comes from different types of sugar such as xylose, fructose and glucose. Depending on the origin of the sea buckthorn, the flavorings can vary, resulting in a wide variety of tastes.

The berries can be eaten fresh, dried or frozen. Fresh sea buckthorn fruits usually taste a little stronger than dried ones. Dried sea buckthorn often tastes sweeter than fresh fruit. Frozen sea buckthorn usually tastes more sour than fresh fruit.

Sea Buckthorn is a versatile fruit that can be used in many different recipes. It can be used as a topping for desserts, as a filling for cakes and pastries, or as an aromatic ingredient in jams, fruit juices and preserves.

What dishes can you prepare with sea buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn is a versatile berry that can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen. The raw berries can be used to prepare smoothies, compotes or fruit spreads, for example. Hot sea buckthorn specialties are made by cooking or baking with the vitamin C-rich pulp. The berry has an excellent taste of its own, which can be perfectly combined with all dishes.

Even simple dishes such as salads, dips or stir-fries can be prepared with sea buckthorn. The combination of the fruity aroma with other ingredients results in new taste experiences.

Here is a selection of dishes that can be deliciously refined with sea buckthorn:

• vegetable soup
• fish fillets
• quiches
• Sea Buckthorn Chicken
• Wild Rice Salad
• ice cream

Jams, jellies or syrup can also be made. In addition to the delicious taste, sea buckthorn is a good choice because it contains a lot of vitamin C. A nutrition expert from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) states that "regular intake of vitamin C helps maintain a healthy immune system".

How to preserve sea buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn is a very delicate fruit that can spoil quickly. It is therefore important to preserve the berries in order to be able to keep them for a longer period of time and enjoy their taste. There are several ways to preserve sea buckthorn.

• Sea buckthorn can be frozen in the freezer. To do this, wash the berries thoroughly and let them air dry. Then place the berries in an airtight freezer bag and place in the freezer. Sea buckthorn can be stored in the freezer for up to a year.
• Another option is to pickle sea buckthorn in brine. To do this, wash the berries, let them dry and put them in a glass with salted water. Leave the brine at room temperature for a few weeks. The sea buckthorn preserved in this way can then be stored for about 4 to 6 months.
• Another way to preserve sea buckthorn is canning. To do this, the berries are washed, dried and placed in sterilized jars. Then pour lemon juice or sugar-lemon brine over the sea buckthorn and close the jars. Canned sea buckthorn can be kept for several months.

The berries can also be processed into juice, jam, jelly or mush. These products also have a shelf life of several months.

IV. Sea buckthorn in cosmetics

Sea buckthorn has also found wide application in cosmetics and is used in many products to improve potency. Today, sea buckthorn oil is one of the most popular oils in the cosmetics industry. Sea buckthorn oil is used in many ways in skin care and is a valuable component of various creams, face masks, peelings and shampoos.

Sea buckthorn oil contains a variety of vitamins, trace elements and antioxidant nutrients. Sea buckthorn oil is rich in vitamin A , vitamin E, vitamin C and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. This makes it an ideal ingredient for skin, hair and nutritional supplement products. It helps repair and regenerate the skin, reduce wrinkles and improve hair condition.

Here are the benefits of sea buckthorn oil in cosmetology:

• It is rich in vitamin A , vitamin E, vitamin C and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
• It stimulates metabolism and vascular regeneration.
• It tightens and moisturizes the skin.
• It helps protect and repair the skin.
• It strengthens the skin's defences.
• It gives the hair shine and softness.
• It reduces wrinkles.

How does sea buckthorn affect the skin?

Sea Buckthorn is a very rich superfood that contains an abundance of vitamins, antioxidants and other nutrients that revitalize and keep skin healthy. It is a natural source of various vitamins such as vitamin A , vitamin E and vitamin C that are important for the skin. Vitamin A can improve skin elasticity and has antioxidant properties, while vitamin E fights free radical damage. Vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins for the skin and can help moisturize the skin and support cell renewal.

Sea buckthorn also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for skin, hair and nails. These fatty acids help moisturize the skin and protect it from environmental damage. In addition, sea buckthorn berries contain phytochemicals that can help the skin repair and regenerate.

These properties make sea buckthorn a popular ingredient in skin care products. When purchasing, make sure the product contains 100% pure sea buckthorn pulp oil and extract for optimal effect.

A dietary supplement or sea buckthorn skin care product can help:

• Invigorating effect on the skin
• Increases elasticity
• helps fight free radicals
• supports cell renewal
• Moisturizes and protects the skin
• Promotes skin repair and regeneration

Which products with sea buckthorn are there?

Sea buckthorn is a very versatile fruit - many different products can be made from a single fruit. Some of the most commonly used products are

• Sea Buckthorn Juice: Sea buckthorn juice is one of the most popular forms of processing the fruit and can be made fresh from the fruit or purchased in bottles. It is very tasty and rich in vitamin C and other vitamins and minerals.
• Sea Buckthorn Jam: Sea buckthorn jam is a very tasty and versatile jam made from sea buckthorn. It is healthy and rich in vitamins and minerals.
• Sea buckthorn oil: Sea buckthorn oil is a versatile oil that is extracted from the kernels of the sea buckthorn fruit. It is an ideal substitute for conventional olive oil and contains many valuable vitamins and other nutrients.
• Sea Buckthorn Powder: Sea buckthorn powder is a versatile and healthy powder made from sea buckthorn fruits. It is a very good source of vitamin C , vitamin E and other important nutrients.
• Sea Buckthorn Soup: Sea buckthorn soup is a delicious and healthy soup made from sea buckthorn fruits. It is a good source of vitamins C and E, as well as other vitamins and minerals.
• Sea Buckthorn Capsules: Sea buckthorn capsules are a great way to get the benefits of sea buckthorn without losing the flavor of the fruit. They contain all the important vitamins and minerals of sea buckthorn.

How to make sea buckthorn oil yourself?

Sea buckthorn oil is easy to make at home. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you start.

The ingredients

• Sea buckthorn berries, cleaned and dried or fresh
• Good vegetable oil

preparation

1. For the production of sea buckthorn oil, it is important to thoroughly clean the sea buckthorn berries before pickling, otherwise impurities can get into the oil.
2. Place the cleaned berries in a clean glass so that the berries fill about a third of the glass.
3. Gently pour the vegetable oil over the berries until covered.
4. Close the jar tightly and place in a warm place.
5. Leave the jar for about four weeks.
6. Stir the oil regularly and remove the foam that forms on the surface.
7. After about four weeks, a yellow-orange color should have developed.
8. Then strain the oil from the berries.
9. Pour the oil into clean, dark glass bottles and seal tightly.

It is important to maintain cleanliness and hygiene throughout the manufacturing process to avoid mold and contamination.

The self-made sea buckthorn oil can be used in many ways, eg for cooking, as a salad dressing or as an ingredient in cosmetics.

V. Cultivation and care of sea buckthorn

Sea buckthorn bushes have the unique ability to grow on the steepest and most barren soils. However, they are usually susceptible to severe frost and need good watering to stay healthy. To ensure healthy growth, experts recommend rotating or dividing the location every year.

Sea buckthorn bushes need a full sun location, not too close to trees to get direct sunlight. Good drainage and a relatively open root system are essential for the growth and fruiting of sea buckthorn shrubs. The soil should be at least 8 cm deep loosened and well drained.

In the first few years after planting, it is advisable to lightly fertilize the sea buckthorn. After a few years this is no longer necessary. Sea buckthorn also needs regular watering during fruiting and after harvest.

An important part of the sea buckthorn harvest is the cut. Pruning must be regular to encourage healthy and fruitful growth. Old, diseased, and weak branches should be removed, while new, stronger branches encourage fruiting. Proper pest control is also important to ensure healthy sea buckthorn growth.

How to plant sea buckthorn

Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a fast-growing shrub that needs firm soil. The best time to plant is early spring or early fall. If you want to have sea buckthorn in your garden, you can buy seeds, cuttings or young plants from the gardener.

Planting sea buckthorn bushes is easy and requires only a few basic steps:

1. Choose a sunny spot: Sea buckthorn loves lots of sun, so make sure the spot is well lit.
2. Prepare the soil: Sea buckthorn prefers deep, nutrient-rich, and well-drained soil. To prepare the soil for the plants, a layer of mulch or compost should be applied prior to planting to retain moisture in the soil and add nutrients.
3. Planting the Shrubs: Dig a clean planting pit and leave a space of at least 1.5 meters between the shrubs. Fill the pit with soil and level it. Fill the pit with water to compact the soil. Then insert the sea buckthorn and cover with soil.
4. Caring for the sea buckthorn bushes: To promote good growth, the bushes can be fertilized regularly and the soil loosened. It should be watered regularly, especially in the first year after planting.

How to care for sea buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn bushes are very undemanding and robust and require little care. However, to keep them healthy and strong, they should be checked regularly and treated if necessary.

1. Water: Sea buckthorn bushes like it moist and should be watered regularly. It is important that the soil is always well moist, but you also have to make sure that the roots are not constantly wet.
2. Fertilization: An organic or mineral fertilizer is recommended as a fertilizer that covers the nutrient requirements of the sea buckthorn. It is recommended to fertilize in spring and summer.
3. Pruning: In order to keep the shape and to encourage flowering, it is advisable to prune the sea buckthorn once or twice a year. However, regular pruning in the fall is important to allow the plant to recover and form new buds.
4. Pest Control: Sea buckthorn bushes are usually very resistant to pests, but when pests do appear they should be treated as soon as possible.
5. Harvest: Sea buckthorn berries can be harvested from September. It is advisable to pick the berries carefully so as not to damage the plant.

Which pests and diseases can attack the sea buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn is a hardy plant that usually resists most pests and diseases. Nevertheless, some pests and fungal diseases are known that can attack sea buckthorn.

pests

• Aphids - Aphids feed on the leaf saps of sea buckthorn and can number in the hundreds in severe cases. If you have a problem with aphids, you can repeatedly spray the sea buckthorn with an insecticide to get rid of the lice.
• Spider Mites - Spider mites prefer warm, dry conditions and are primarily seen during the summer months. Treatment with an appropriate insecticide can help reduce the spider mite population.

Diseases

• Leaf spot diseases - Leaf spot diseases are caused by various fungi and are usually favored by excessive moisture, rain or plants that are too dense. To prevent leaf spot diseases, sea buckthorn should be planted in such a way that enough water and light can penetrate.
• Downy mildew - Downy mildew is caused by fungi that cause mold on the leaves of the sea buckthorn. Infection can be waterborne or airborne, making it difficult to aerate the plant. To improve air circulation, the sea buckthorn leaves should be sprayed regularly and any affected leaves should be removed.

VI. conclusion

In summary, sea buckthorn is a delicious and healthy fruit that can be incorporated into nutrition, cuisine and cosmetics in a variety of ways. Rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, it offers many health benefits. Because of its origin and distribution, it is readily available in many countries, while in others it can be grown in gardens. With the right care and cultivation methods, one can continually harvest sea buckthorn and enjoy its health benefits. So sea buckthorn is a versatile fruit that is affordable for everyone and makes a healthy and tasty addition to the diet.

Frequently asked questions about sea buckthorn

1. What is sea buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn is a plant that grows in Europe and Asia and is known for its fruit.

2. What vitamins does sea buckthorn contain?

Sea buckthorn contains vitamin C , vitamin E, vitamin A and vitamin K.

3. How is sea buckthorn used?

Sea buckthorn is used in cooking to make jam, juice, oil and tea. It is also used in the cosmetics industry for skin care products.

4. Where can you buy sea buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn products are available in health food stores, health food stores and online shops.

5. What are the health benefits of sea buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn can boost the immune system, promote digestion and improve skin health.

6. How is sea buckthorn grown?

Sea Buckthorn is grown in sunny and dry areas and needs a well-drained soil.

7. Can sea buckthorn cause allergies?

Yes, sea buckthorn can cause allergic reactions in some people.

8. How long do sea buckthorn products keep?

The shelf life of sea buckthorn products depends on the type of product and storage. However, they usually have a shelf life of several months.

9. How does sea buckthorn taste?

Sea buckthorn has a sour, slightly bitter taste.

10. Can you also eat sea buckthorn raw?

Yes, sea buckthorn can be eaten raw, but the taste is very sour and bitter. It is recommended to combine or process it with other ingredients.