Sea Buckthorn: Uses, Benefits, and How to Use It Safely

Sea buckthorn is a bright orange berry used as a supplement, oil, and topical treatment. People take it for skin health, dry eyes, and heart support. If you’re curious, this page gives practical advice on what works, what doesn’t, and how to use it without surprises.

What is sea buckthorn? It’s a shrub (Hippophae rhamnoides) that grows in cold regions. The berries are high in vitamin C, carotenoids, and healthy fats called omega-7. Companies extract oil from the fruit and seeds, and you can also find powders, capsules, and creams.

What it helps with — evidence and real effects. There’s decent evidence sea buckthorn oil helps dry skin and speeds wound healing when used topically. Some small studies show improvement in dry eye symptoms with oral supplements. For heart health, research is early but suggests mild benefits for cholesterol and blood pressure in certain groups. Don’t expect dramatic cures; think modest support, not a miracle fix.

How to pick a product. Choose products that list the part used (fruit oil or seed oil) and show lab testing or certificates. Fruit oil has more carotenoids and vitamin C; seed oil has more omega-3 and omega-6. Standardized extracts or labeled amounts of fatty acids make dosing clearer. If the label is vague, look elsewhere.

Dosage and forms

Common doses range from 1,000 to 2,000 mg of oil daily for general health, or one teaspoon of oil. For dry skin or wounds, creams with 5–10% sea buckthorn oil are typical. For dry eyes, studies used specific capsules for 12 weeks — follow the product instructions and give it time. Start low and increase if tolerated.

Safety and side effects. Sea buckthorn is generally safe for most people but can cause stomach upset or loose stools at high doses. It may lower blood pressure or affect blood clotting, so be cautious if you take blood thinners or blood pressure meds. Stop before surgery if your doctor advises. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should check with a clinician first.

Interactions and tips for use

Sea buckthorn can interact with blood thinners, antihypertensives, and diabetes medications. If you take prescriptions, ask your pharmacist whether it’s safe to add. Use a single product at a time so you can spot side effects. Store oil in a cool dark place and watch the expiry date — oils go rancid.

Where to buy and what to expect. Reputable pharmacies and established supplement brands are safer than unknown online sellers. Check for independent lab tests like COA (certificate of analysis). Expect gradual benefits over weeks, not overnight results. If a product promises instant cures, be skeptical.

Quick take: sea buckthorn can be a useful, gentle addition for skin, dry eyes, and mild metabolic support. Treat it like a supplement — test it carefully, watch for interactions, and consult your healthcare provider if you take meds or have health issues. Want personalized advice? Ask your pharmacist or doctor about sea buckthorn today.