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Hippophae
Hippophae
Hippophae
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"Seaberry" redirects here. The term may also refer to plants in the genus Haloragis.

Hippophae
Common sea buckthorn shrub in the Netherlands
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Rosales
Family: Elaeagnaceae
Genus: Hippophae
L.
Type species
Hippophae rhamnoides
Species

See text

Synonyms
  • Argussiera Bubani
  • Hippophaes Asch.
  • Oleaster Heist. ex Fabr.
  • Rhamnoides Mill.

Hippophae, from Ancient Greek ἵππος (híppos), meaning "horse", and φάος (pháos), meaning "light", is a genus of flowering plants in the family Elaeagnaceae. They are deciduous shrubs. They are exceptionally hardy plants, able to withstand winter temperatures as low as −43 °C (−45 °F). As Hippophae species develop an aggressive and extensive root system, they are planted to inhibit soil erosion and used in land reclamation for their nitrogen fixing properties, wildlife habitat, and soil enrichment. Hippophae berries and leaves are manufactured into various human and animal food and skincare products.[clarification needed]

Species and description

[edit]

The shrubs reach 0.5–6 m (1 ft 8 in – 19 ft 8 in) tall, rarely up to 10 metres (33 ft) in central Asia. The leaf arrangement can be alternate or opposite.[1] 'Plants of the World Online[2] includes the following species:

  1. Hippophae × goniocarpa Y.S.Lian & al. ex Swenson & Bartish is a natural hybrid of H. neurocarpa and H. sinensis[3] which grows in mountainous regions in Nepal, Mongolia and China.
  2. Hippophae gyantsensis (Rousi) Y.S.Lian
  3. Hippophae litangensis Y.S.Lian & Xue L.Chen ex Swenson & Bartish
  4. Hippophae neurocarpa S.W.Liu & T.N.He
  5. Hippophae rhamnoides L.: Common sea buckthorn has dense and stiff branches, and are very thorny. The leaves are a distinct pale silvery-green, lanceolate, 3–8 cm (1–3 in) long, and less than 7 mm (1⁄4 in) broad. It is dioecious, with separate male and female plants. The male produces brownish flowers which produce wind-distributed pollen. The female plants produce orange berries 6–9 mm (1⁄4–3⁄8 in) in diameter, soft, juicy, and rich in oils. The roots distribute rapidly and extensively, providing a nonleguminous nitrogen fixation role in surrounding soils.
  6. Hippophae salicifolia D.Don (willow-leaved sea buckthorn) is restricted to the Himalayas, to the south of the common sea buckthorn, growing at high altitudes in dry valleys; it differs from H. rhamnoides in having broader (to 10 mm (3⁄8 in))[citation needed] and greener (less silvery) leaves, and yellow berries. A wild variant occurs in the same area, but at even higher altitudes in the alpine zone.[citation needed] It is a low shrub not growing taller than 1 m (3 ft 3 in) with small leaves 1–3 cm (1⁄2–1+1⁄4 in) long.[citation needed]
  7. Hippophae sinensis (Rousi) Tzvelev
  8. Hippophae tibetana Schltdl.
Common sea buckthorn

Taxonomy and name

[edit]

Hippophae is a small genus of Elaeagnaceae having a terminal taxon with seven species recognized, as of 2002.[1] Hippophae rhamnoides is a highly variable species with eight subspecies.[1]

In ancient times, leaves and young branches from sea buckthorn were supposedly fed as a remedy to horses to support weight gain and appearance of the coat, leading to the name of the genus, Hippophae, from Ancient Greek ἵππος (híppos), meaning "horse", and φάος (pháos), meaning "light".[4]

Distribution

[edit]
Ripe berries of sea-buckthorn. Selenginsky district, Buryatia, Russia

Hippophae rhamnoides, the common sea buckthorn, is the most widespread of the species in the genus, with the ranges of its eight subspecies extending from the Atlantic coasts of Europe across to northwestern Mongolia, northwestern China and Northern Pakistan.[4][5] In western Europe, it is largely confined to sea coasts where salt spray off the sea prevents other larger plants from outcompeting it. In central Asia, it is more widespread in dry semi-desert sites where other plants cannot survive the dry conditions.

In central Europe and Asia, it also occurs as a sub-alpine shrub above the tree line in mountains, and other sunny areas such as river banks where it has been used to stabilize erosion.[4] They are tolerant of salt in the air and soil, but demand full sunlight for good growth and do not tolerate shady conditions near larger trees. They typically grow in dry, sandy areas.

More than 90% or about 1,500,000 ha (3,700,000 acres) of the world's natural sea buckthorn habitat is found in China, Mongolia, Russia, and most parts of Northern Europe.[4]

Sea buckthorn USDA hardiness zones are about 3 through 7.[4]

In some areas it is considered invasive, due to its ability to outcompete smaller native species.[6]

Varieties

[edit]

Between 1945 and 1991, Soviet and German horticulturists developed new varieties with greater nutritional value, larger berries, different ripening months and branches that are easier to harvest. Over the past 20 years, experimental crops have been grown in the United States, one in Nevada and one in Arizona, and in several provinces of Canada.[7]

Genetics

[edit]

A study of nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer sequence data[8] showed that the genus can be divided into three clades:

  • H. tibetana
  • H. rhamnoides with the exception of H. rhamnoides ssp. gyantsensis (=H. gyantsensis)
  • remaining species

A study using chloroplast sequences and morphology,[5] however, recovered only two clades:

  • H. tibetana, H. gyantsensis, H. salicifolia, H. neurocarpa
  • H. rhamnoides

Natural history

[edit]

The fruit is an important winter food resource for some birds, notably fieldfares.[citation needed]

Leaves are eaten by the larva of the coastal race of the ash pug moth and by larvae of other Lepidoptera, including brown-tail, dun-bar, emperor moth, mottled umber, and Coleophora elaeagnisella.

Uses

[edit]
Common sea buckthorn

Products

[edit]

Sea buckthorn berries are edible and nutritious, though astringent, sour, and oily[9] unless bletted (frosted to reduce the astringency) and/or mixed as a drink with sweeter substances such as apple or grape juice. Additionally, malolactic fermentation of sea buckthorn juice reduces sourness, enhancing its sensory properties. The mechanism behind this change is transformation of malic acid into lactic acid in microbial metabolism.[10]

When the berries are pressed, the resulting sea buckthorn juice separates into three layers: on top is a thick, orange cream; in the middle, a layer containing sea buckthorn's characteristic high content of saturated and polyunsaturated fats; and the bottom layer is sediment and juice.[4][11] The upper two layers contain fat sources applicable for cosmetic purposes and can be processed for skin creams and liniments, whereas the bottom layer can be used for edible products such as syrup.[11]

Besides juice, sea buckthorn fruit can be used to make pies, jams, lotions, teas, fruit wines, and liquors.[4] The juice or pulp has other potential applications in foods, beverages or cosmetics products such as shower gel.[4] Fruit drinks were among the earliest sea buckthorn products developed in China. Sea buckthorn-based juice is common in Germany and Scandinavian countries. It provides a beverage rich in vitamin C and carotenoids.[4] Sea buckthorn berries are also used to produce rich orange-coloured ice-cream, with a melon-type taste and hints of citrus.[12][13]

For its troops confronting low winter temperatures (see Siachen), India's Defence Research and Development Organisation established a factory in Leh to manufacture a multivitamin herbal beverage based on sea buckthorn juice.[14]

The seed and pulp oils have nutritional properties that vary under different processing methods.[15] Sea buckthorn oils are used as a source for ingredients in several commercially available cosmetic products and nutritional supplements.[4]

Landscape uses

[edit]

Sea buckthorn may be used as a landscaping shrub with an aggressive basal shoot system used for barrier hedges and windbreaks, and to stabilize riverbanks and steep slopes.[4] They have value in northern climates for their landscape qualities, as the colorful berry clusters are retained through winter.[4][16][17] Branches may be used by florists for designing ornaments.

In northwestern China, sea buckthorn shrubs have been planted on the bottoms of dry riverbeds to increase water retention of the soil, thus decreasing sediment loss.[4] Due to increased moisture conservation of the soil and nitrogen-fixing capabilities of sea buckthorn, vegetation levels have increased in areas where sea buckthorn have been planted.[18][19] Sea buckthorn was once distributed free of charge to Canadian prairie farmers by PFRA to be used in shelterbelts.[20]

Folk medicine and research

[edit]

Sea buckthorn has been used over centuries in traditional medicine.[4] Although sea buckthorn fruit extracts are under preliminary research for their pharmacological effects, there is no high-quality clinical evidence for the ability of Hippophae products to lower the risk of human diseases.[21] As of 2022, no sea buckthorn products are approved as prescription drugs by any national regulatory agency.[21]

Berry oil from seeds or fruit pulp, either taken orally as a dietary supplement or applied topically, is believed to be a skin softener or medicine, but there is inadequate clinical evidence of its effectiveness.[21] There have been no systematic studies of toxicity and safety for any Hippophae product.[21]

Organizations

[edit]

The International Seabuckthorn Association, formerly the International Center for Research and Training on Seabuckthorn (ICRTS), was formed jointly in 1988 by the China Research and Training Center on Seabuckthorn, the Seabuckthorn Office of the Yellow River Water Commission, and the Shaanxi Seabuckthorn Development Office. From 1995 to 2000, ICRTS published the research journal, Hippophae, which appears to be no longer active.

In 2005–2007, the "EAN-Seabuck" network between European Union states, China, Russia and New Independent States was funded by the European Commission to promote sustainable crop and consumer product development.[22]

In Mongolia, there is an active National Association of Seabuckthorn Cultivators and Producers.[23]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Hippophae

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Hippophae is a of deciduous shrubs and small trees in the family , comprising six to seven species, with being the most widespread and commonly known as sea buckthorn. These dioecious plants typically feature spiny branches, silvery-gray leaves, and small, orange to yellow berries borne on female plants. Native to temperate and high-altitude regions across Europe, Central Asia, and the , the genus plays a crucial role as a in harsh environments. The of Hippophae includes species such as H. rhamnoides, H. salicifolia, H. tibetana, and H. neurocarpa, each adapted to specific ecological niches within their broad distribution from coastal dunes in to alpine slopes in Mongolia and the . Botanically, in this genus grow to heights of 1–6 meters, with actinorhizal root systems that enable , enhancing in nutrient-poor areas. Their leaves are linear to lanceolate, covered in stellate scales that give a distinctive silvery appearance, and flowers are inconspicuous, wind-pollinated catkins appearing in spring. Ecologically, Hippophae species are valued for their resilience in stabilizing slopes, preventing , and reclaiming degraded lands, particularly in arid or semi-arid zones where they act as windbreaks and improve water retention. In their native habitats, they form dense thickets that support by providing and forage for , while their deep root systems contribute to watershed protection. Due to these attributes, they are widely planted in restoration projects across and . Human uses of Hippophae span ornamental , where their hardy nature and attractive foliage make them suitable for hedges and , to nutritional and medicinal applications derived from their berries, which are rich in vitamins C and E, , and essential fatty acids. The fruits and seeds yield oils used in for and in functional foods for benefits, with traditional uses in Chinese and Tibetan for treating and digestive issues. Ongoing highlights their potential in and nutraceuticals, underscoring their economic importance in regions like the .

Taxonomy and description

Etymology and classification

The genus name Hippophae derives from the Ancient Greek words hippos (ἵππος), meaning "horse," and phaos (φάος), meaning "light" or "shining," alluding to the historical observation that feeding the plant's leaves and twigs to horses produced a glossy coat. Hippophae is classified in the family Elaeagnaceae (order Rosales), a small family of about 50–60 species distributed across three genera. The genus was first formally described by Carl Linnaeus in his 1753 work Species Plantarum, where he established H. rhamnoides as the type species based on European specimens. Contemporary taxonomy recognizes 6–7 species in Hippophae, a delineation supported by integrated analyses of morphological traits—such as shape, morphology, and structure—and molecular markers like chloroplast DNA sequences and nuclear ITS regions. Phylogenetic studies place Hippophae as one of three monophyletic genera in , closely related to (about 40–50 species of shrubs and vines) and (three species of North American shrubs), with shared synapomorphies including actinorhizal nitrogen-fixing root nodules and silvery-scaly indumentum.

Species and morphology

Hippophae species are shrubs or small trees typically growing 0.5 to 6 in height, characterized by thorny branches that provide structural support and defense. The leaves are alternate, linear to lanceolate, measuring 1 to 7 cm in length, and exhibit a distinctive silvery-green coloration due to a dense covering of peltate scales on both surfaces. These scales serve as an for radiation protection and enhanced water retention in arid environments. The small, inconspicuous flowers are arranged in catkins, with male flowers forming silvery catkins and female flowers in short racemes or solitary; the orange-red berries, which develop only on female , are drupe-like, 0.5 to 1 cm in diameter, and persist on branches through winter. All species in the are dioecious, necessitating both male and female in proximity for successful and fruit production via wind dispersal. A key morphological adaptation is the presence of nitrogen-fixing root nodules formed through with the actinomycete bacterium sp., enabling the to thrive in nutrient-poor soils by converting atmospheric into usable forms. This , along with physiological traits such as deep root systems and stomatal regulation, confers notable tolerance to and , allowing establishment in harsh, marginal habitats. The genus Hippophae comprises seven recognized , primarily distributed across in temperate to alpine regions. , the most widespread, ranges across and Asia, forming extensive thickets (including subsp. mongolica primarily in and adjacent ). H. salicifolia is native to the Himalayan region, often occurring at elevations up to 4,000 meters. H. tibetana inhabits the and adjacent highlands. H. neurocarpa is restricted to , particularly and . H. sinensis is native to northern and . H. gyantsensis grows in the Qinghai-Tibet border areas, including Province. H. litangensis, described from , remains debated as potentially distinct or conspecific with H. neurocarpa. A hybrid species, H. × goniocarpa, occurs where parental species overlap in .

Reproduction and genetics

Hippophae species are dioecious, with separate male and female individuals, and reproduction occurs primarily through wind pollination. Male plants produce catkins that release large quantities of dry, powdery pollen in early spring or late winter, prior to leaf emergence, facilitating anemophily. Female plants bear small, apetalous flowers that, upon successful fertilization, develop into clusters of drupaceous fruits containing a single bony seed each. These fruits, typically orange to red, ripen in late summer to autumn and serve as a key food source for wildlife. Seed dispersal in Hippophae is predominantly mediated by birds and mammals, which consume the fleshy fruits and excrete viable , aiding in the plant's of new areas. In wild populations, the male-to-female is often biased toward females at approximately 1:5 to 1:10, posing challenges for efficiency and fruit set, as males must be sufficiently proximate to females for effective transfer. , the development of seedless fruits without fertilization, is rare in the and does not significantly contribute to . This dioecious nature complicates breeding efforts, as sex cannot be reliably determined until flowering, typically after several years. Genetically, Hippophae are diploid with a number of 2n=24, exhibiting an XY-type where sex-specific loci are primarily located on 2. High is observed within of H. rhamnoides, such as ssp. mongolica and ssp. sinensis, driven by geographic variation and to diverse environments, as revealed by and SNP analyses. Molecular markers, including and SSR types, have been developed for early sex identification and differentiation, enabling targeted breeding without awaiting morphological cues. Natural hybridization occurs frequently in sympatric zones, producing diploid hybrids such as H. gyantsensis (from H. rhamnoides and H. tibetana) and H. goniocarpa, often without changes. is present in some populations, particularly in hybrid zones, contributing to through allopolyploid events.

Distribution and ecology

Geographic range

The genus Hippophae is native to , with its distribution extending from the Atlantic coasts of , including the and , across , , and to the and eastern Asia, encompassing , , and . Species in the genus occupy an altitudinal range from in coastal European habitats to elevations up to 5,200 m in high-altitude Asian regions. Among the species, H. rhamnoides has the broadest native range, spanning and from the British Isles and western Europe eastward through , , the , northern , and . In contrast, H. tibetana is endemic to the and adjacent areas, including the Qinghai-Tibet region in , where it thrives at elevations between 2,800 and 5,200 m, while H. neurocarpa occurs in similar regions at 3,400–4,400 m. H. mongolica, a of H. rhamnoides, is native to southern , , and northern . Beyond its native range, Hippophae species, particularly H. rhamnoides, have been introduced to , including and the , primarily for and along roadways and in shelterbelts. Introductions have also occurred in , where it shows invasive tendencies, and in for similar environmental stabilization purposes. In some areas of the of the , it exhibits invasive potential. The current distribution of Hippophae reflects post-glacial migration patterns, with species expanding from multiple microrefugia in the and following the , alongside possible contributions from refugia in the for western Asian populations.

Habitat and natural history

Hippophae species, commonly known as sea buckthorns, are pioneer adapted to harsh, disturbed environments, thriving in sandy, gravelly, or shingle soils along riverbanks, coastal dunes, and steep slopes. They exhibit remarkable tolerance to poor, nutrient-deficient, saline, and alkaline conditions, enabling colonization of otherwise inhospitable sites where few other can establish. As actinorhizal , they form symbiotic associations with nitrogen-fixing actinobacteria such as , which facilitate atmospheric and enhance in these marginal habitats. These perennials are shrubs or small trees with lifespans ranging from 50 to over 100 years, depending on environmental conditions and . They exhibit seasonal leaf drop in autumn, with new growth emerging in spring, and typically begin fruiting 3-6 years after establishment, peaking in late summer to autumn when orange berries ripen. The life cycle emphasizes resilience, with extensive systems that stabilize substrates and prevent in dynamic landscapes like floodplains and wind-swept dunes. In natural settings, Hippophae plays a crucial ecological role through interactions that support in arid and semi-arid ecosystems. Its nitrogen-fixing capability not only sustains the but also enriches surrounding soils, benefiting associated microbial communities and facilitating succession for other . The provides essential food and for ; birds and small mammals consume the nutrient-rich berries, aiding , while its dense, thorny thickets offer nesting, roosting, and protective cover from predators. , including bees and other pollinators, visit the inconspicuous dioecious flowers for , promoting cross-pollination in these often isolated populations. As a , it enhances overall stability in challenging environments. Wild populations face significant threats from anthropogenic pressures, including by and , which disrupt natural regeneration and degrade suitable habitats in regions like . Recent climate change modeling as of 2025 predicts potential range contractions and shifts in suitable habitats for Hippophae species, particularly in high-altitude regions due to rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns. These activities reduce plant density and soil stability, potentially diminishing the genus's role in maintaining within arid ecosystems.

Cultivation and varieties

Varieties and cultivars

Hippophae rhamnoides, the most widely cultivated species in the genus, encompasses several subspecies adapted to distinct regions, including subsp. rhamnoides prevalent in Europe, subsp. mongolica dominant in Asian steppes, and subsp. fluviatilis found in riverine environments across parts of Europe. These subspecies form the genetic foundation for cultivar development, with variations in fruit characteristics and environmental tolerance influencing selection priorities. Breeding efforts for Hippophae began in during the 1930s, with significant advancements in the 1950s through programs at institutions like the All-Russian Research Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, and parallel initiatives in starting in the 1980s. A primary focus has been overcoming the plant's dioecious nature by developing hermaphroditic or self-fertile lines, alongside selections for enhanced commercial traits such as yield, fruit size, oil content, and cold hardiness. As of 2025, new cultivars like 'Podilska' are being developed in , alongside genetic studies enhancing breeding programs. Over 130 cultivars have been registered globally, primarily in and , reflecting decades of targeted hybridization and evaluation. Notable cultivars include 'Chuiskaya', a high-yielding Russian variety with sweet, orange fruits rich in , suitable for mechanical harvesting. 'Vitaminaya' stands out for its nutrient-dense berries, featuring elevated levels of sugars and bioactive compounds. 'Orange Energy' (also known as 'Habego'), developed in , is valued for its reduced thorn density, large fruit size, and improved flavor profile, making it ideal for commercial orchards. In high-altitude regions of and the , landraces of H. tibetana have been traditionally selected for exceptional tolerance to extreme elevations above 4,000 meters, supporting local cultivation in harsh, arid conditions. These variants contribute to , with ongoing efforts to incorporate their altitude adaptations into broader breeding programs.

Propagation and management

Hippophae species, commonly known as sea buckthorn, can be propagated through several methods suited to both agricultural and ornamental cultivation. Seed propagation involves sowing after cold stratification to break dormancy, typically requiring 90 to 120 days at 4°C to achieve germination rates of 50-80%. Semi-hardwood cuttings, taken in late summer from current-season growth, root successfully under mist with rooting hormones, yielding clones true to the parent plant. Layering and root cuttings provide additional vegetative options, with root segments planted in pots for 6-8 weeks before field transplanting to produce genetically identical plants. Tissue culture techniques, using shoot tips on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with cytokinins, enable rapid multiplication of elite clones for commercial orchards. Cultivation of Hippophae requires full sun exposure to promote dense growth and production, as partial shade significantly reduces yields. thrive in well-drained, loamy to sandy soils with a range of 6 to 8, tolerating moderate and once established. In orchards, spacing of 1 to 2 between within rows and 3 to 4 between rows accommodates growth and machinery access. Due to the dioecious nature of the species, a male-to-female ratio of 1:6 to 1:8 is recommended to ensure effective pollination and optimal berry set. Management practices focus on maintaining plant health and productivity with minimal intervention. Pruning in late winter or early spring shapes bushes, removes dead wood, and enhances yield by 20-30% through improved penetration and air circulation. Hippophae exhibits strong resistance to most pests and diseases, with few serious issues reported; occasional monitoring for or borers suffices, often controlled culturally without chemicals. Harvest occurs in autumn, from to , primarily through mechanical shaking of branches over collection nets or specialized harvesters to gather ripe berries efficiently. Commercial production is dominated by , accounting for over 90% of global output, followed by and several European countries including and . Yields in well-managed orchards typically range from 5 to 10 tons of fruit per after 4-5 years of establishment, varying with and site conditions.

Uses and applications

Culinary and nutritional products

Sea buckthorn berries are prized in culinary applications for their vibrant orange color, tart flavor, and dense nutritional profile, which includes exceptionally high levels of , ranging from 52.86 to 896 mg per 100 g of fresh weight, along with significant amounts of , , and . These nutrients contribute to the berries' role as a ingredient, often processed into , jams, syrups, and dried fruits to preserve their antioxidant-rich qualities while mitigating their astringency. For instance, fresh or frozen berries can be crushed and strained to yield a tangy , or cooked with to create preserves that balance acidity with sweetness, making them suitable for spreads, desserts, and beverages. The seeds of sea buckthorn yield approximately 10-15% oil through extraction, though the pulp-derived oil is particularly notable for its 30-35% content of , an omega-7 uncommon in other plant sources. This oil imparts a nutty flavor and is used in cooking for dressings, marinades, and , enhancing dishes with its profile that supports culinary stability at moderate heat. Meanwhile, the leaves are dried and steeped to produce herbal teas, valued for their mild, earthy taste and contributions of and trace minerals, often consumed as a caffeine-free alternative in daily routines. Commercial products featuring sea buckthorn have driven market expansion, with the global industry projected to be valued at around $419 million in 2025, according to a report updated in October 2025, fueled by demand for nutrient-dense beverages and oils in health-oriented foods. Sea buckthorn juice, characterized by its sharp, citrus-like tartness, is commonly pasteurized at temperatures around 65-70°C for 15-20 minutes to ensure microbial safety while retaining content, then bottled for retail. Oils are typically obtained via cold-pressing the pulp or at low temperatures below 40°C to avoid degradation of heat-sensitive fatty acids, resulting in a golden liquid suitable for both culinary and supplementary uses. In traditional , sea buckthorn berries or juice are occasionally incorporated into , a staple beverage made by churning fermented with and salt, adding a fruity tang and nutritional boost to the rich, savory drink.

Medicinal and cosmetic uses

Sea buckthorn has been utilized in traditional medicine systems across for centuries, particularly in Ayurvedic, Tibetan, and Chinese practices, to address various ailments including digestive issues, wounds, and inflammation. In Tibetan medicine, documented as early as the 8th century AD, it was employed to treat lung and stomach diseases, while Mongolian traditions from the 12th century incorporated it for similar gastrointestinal and respiratory concerns. The oil, extracted from berries and seeds, has been applied topically since ancient times to soothe burns and promote , owing to its emollient and properties. In , as recorded in classical texts, sea buckthorn is noted for promoting fluid production, quenching thirst, clearing heat, and aiding digestion. In modern cosmetics, sea buckthorn berry oil is incorporated into creams and serums for its anti-aging effects, primarily attributed to high levels of antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, which combat and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Extracts from the , the of berry processing, are used in moisturizers to enhance hydration and , providing nourishment for dry or mature . These formulations leverage the oil's rich profile of omega-7 fatty acids and to support regeneration and elasticity. Pharmaceutical applications include sea buckthorn-based supplements promoted for cardiovascular health, where components like help lower levels, reduce , and support overall heart function. Additionally, sea buckthorn pulp oil has been formulated into gels for treating oral in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, demonstrating effectiveness in reducing severity and duration of symptoms. Sea buckthorn products are generally considered safe for oral and topical use, with studies indicating tolerability for up to 90 days, though rare allergic reactions such as skin irritation may occur in sensitive individuals. In the European Union, sea buckthorn leaves were authorized as a novel food in 2020, while berries and oils are regulated as traditional foods and food supplements under safety assessments. In the United States, sea buckthorn is marketed as a dietary supplement ingredient without official GRAS status.

Ecological and landscape applications

Hippophae species, particularly H. rhamnoides, play a significant role in through their dense, extensive root systems that bind and stabilize soil on slopes, dunes, and degraded lands. In , large-scale plantations have been implemented in the region to prevent and facilitate , including in areas affected by activities. Similarly, in , the plant is employed for rehabilitating open-cast sites in countries such as , , and , where its root network effectively reduces runoff and promotes vegetation recovery. In landscape applications, Hippophae serves as a versatile ornamental , forming dense hedges and windbreaks that provide from wind and visual screening. Its silvery foliage and bright orange berries add aesthetic value to gardens and public spaces, while its tolerance for harsh conditions, including urban , air , and , makes it suitable for inner-city plantings and coastal barriers. The 's thorny branches further enhance its utility as a security barrier in landscaped areas. Within systems, Hippophae is intercropped with agricultural crops to improve and fertility, leveraging its nitrogen-fixing symbiotic relationship with bacteria to enrich nutrient-poor soils. The leaves, containing approximately 20% crude protein on a basis, provide high-quality for , particularly ruminants, supporting sustainable in marginal lands. For biodiversity enhancement, Hippophae plantations attract pollinators and beneficial insects through their early-blooming flowers, while the berries and thorny cover support bird nesting and foraging, fostering habitat diversity in restored ecosystems. Additionally, the species contributes to carbon sequestration by accumulating organic matter in biomass and soil, aiding in climate mitigation efforts on degraded terrains.

Research and conservation

Health benefits and scientific studies

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is rich in bioactive compounds that underpin its potential health benefits, including such as and isorhamnetin, which are predominantly found in the fruits and leaves. These exhibit strong properties by scavenging free radicals and reducing . Additionally, sea buckthorn contains a unique profile of unsaturated fatty acids, encompassing omega-3, omega-6, omega-7, and omega-9, particularly in its seed and pulp oils. The berries exhibit high overall capacity, attributed to these polyphenols and vitamins. Comparative studies have examined the antioxidant properties of sea buckthorn polyphenols relative to other plant sources and synthetic antioxidants, though superiority is not consistent and depends on factors such as extraction method and specific assays. For instance, one study found that an alcoholic extract of sea buckthorn achieved 94.7% inhibition in the DPPH assay, compared to 91.1% for BHT and 87.9% for BHA. Another study showed that sea buckthorn leaf tea extracts had polyphenol and flavonoid contents comparable to those of green tea, with similar or elevated cellular antioxidant potential in some conditions. A comparison of berries indicated that sea buckthorn has lower overall phenolic content than chokecherry but potentially higher in certain phenolic acids. Clinical evidence from randomized controlled trials supports benefits for health, notably in regeneration and inflammatory conditions like . In a double-blind RCT involving 49 patients, daily supplementation with 5 g of sea buckthorn pulp oil for four months significantly reduced eczema severity and improved hydration compared to . Animal studies further demonstrate hepatoprotective effects; for instance, sea buckthorn leaf extracts ameliorated carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage in rat models by lowering serum enzyme levels and oxidative markers. Cardiovascular benefits are evidenced by improved profiles, with a of randomized trials showing that sea buckthorn supplementation significantly reduced total and triglycerides in hyperlipidemic individuals. Despite promising preclinical and small-scale human data, research gaps persist, including a of large-scale, long-term clinical trials to confirm and safety in diverse populations. Most studies center on H. rhamnoides, with limited exploration of other species. Emerging in vitro evidence points to anti-cancer potential, as sea buckthorn induce and inhibit proliferation in tumor cell lines such as colorectal and cells. Sea buckthorn and its derivatives hold (GRAS) status from the FDA for use as food ingredients, based on historical consumption and safety data. Sea buckthorn is a rich source of , for which the (EFSA) has approved health claims related to the normal function of the immune system and protection of cells from when a daily intake of at least 200 mg is achieved.

Conservation status and organizations

Hippophae species are generally considered stable, with H. rhamnoides assessed as Least Concern on the global due to its wide distribution across and ability to thrive in disturbed habitats. However, regional populations, particularly in alpine and Himalayan ranges, face localized pressures that could impact less widespread taxa like H. tibetana, which remains unassessed globally but is noted in Chinese protected plant checklists amid broader threats in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Overharvesting for medicinal and nutritional uses in the contributes to population declines in accessible wild stands, exacerbating through selective collection of high-yield individuals. Key threats to wild Hippophae populations include , which is projected to contract suitable in the by up to 87% for related like H. salicifolia through shifts in alpine ranges and increased stress. Livestock grazing and fragment riverine and riparian ecosystems where the naturally occurs, while excessive wild collection for commercial products further reduces regeneration in vulnerable high-altitude areas. These factors are particularly acute in the Trans-Himalayas, where H. tibetana populations show limited due to geographic barriers, heightening risks from alteration. The International Seabuckthorn Association (ISA), founded in 2001, promotes sustainable utilization of the genus through global research collaboration, environmental protection initiatives, and conferences focused on conservation-friendly cultivation to alleviate pressure on wild resources. In , the Sea Buckthorn Development Center under the Ministry of coordinates national efforts, including germplasm preservation and programs to enhance while supporting . European Union-funded projects, such as LIFE DUNIAS, address invasive spread of H. rhamnoides in coastal dunes while preserving native populations through targeted restoration in sites. Conservation initiatives include establishment of protected sea buckthorn forests in , such as the ecological park in Longzi County, spanning thousands of hectares to combat and safeguard hotspots. Breeding programs in and the develop resilient strains with improved and higher yields, aiming to shift reliance from wild harvesting to cultivated varieties. In the 2020s, systems integrating Hippophae have gained emphasis in , with projects in the and promoting mixed plantations that restore degraded land while reducing of natural stands through sustainable supply chains.

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