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Sea Buckthorn
Hippophae rhamnoides
Sea buckthorn is an exceptional Northern superfruit with extraordinary vitamin C content (190% DV) and unique omega fatty acid profile. Native to Asia and Northern Europe, sea buckthorn delivers comprehensive antioxidant protection, exceptional immune support, and powerful skin health benefits. At 82 calories per 100g with distinctive tart flavor and exceptional nutrient density, sea buckthorn is prized in Nordic and Asian cuisines and increasingly valued globally. Perfect for juices, jams, smoothies, oils, and comprehensive immune and skin wellness.
82
Calories
4.3g
Fiber
190%
Vitamin C
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Sea Buckthorn - Main View
Nutrition Facts
Calories
82
per 100g
Carbs
15.6g
per 100g
Protein
1.4g
per 100g
Fiber
4.3g
per 100g
Sugar
6.8g
per 100g
Fat
5.3g
per 100g
💊Vitamins
Per 100g
Vitamin C
190% DV
152 mg
Extraordinary immune support, exceptional antioxidant protection, collagen synthesis, skin health, iron absorption
Vitamin A
65% DV
1960 IU (588 mcg RAE)
Vision support, skin health, immune function, antioxidant defense, cellular protection
Vitamin E
21% DV
3.2 mg
Antioxidant protection, cellular defense, cardiovascular health, skin health, immune function
Riboflavin (B2)
12% DV
0.15 mg
Energy production, cell growth, antioxidant defense, skin health
⚡Minerals
Per 100g
Copper
13% DV
0.12 mg
Iron metabolism, bone formation, immune function, antioxidant enzyme production, skin health
Manganese
8% DV
0.19 mg
Bone development, metabolism, antioxidant enzyme function, connective tissue formation
Iron
10% DV
1.8 mg
Oxygen transport, energy production, cognitive function, immune support
🛡️Antioxidants
Vitamin CVitamin AVitamin EPolyphenolsFlavonoidsCarotenoids
🌿Phytonutrients
Vitamin C - extraordinary antioxidant providing exceptional immune support, cellular protection, and powerful defense against oxidative damageCarotenoids - antioxidant compounds with exceptional vitamin A potency supporting vision, skin health, and cellular protectionPolyphenols - powerful antioxidants supporting cardiovascular health, inflammation reduction, and comprehensive cellular wellnessOmega fatty acids - unique combination of omega-3 and omega-6 supporting skin health, cardiovascular wellness, and cellular function
📊Glycemic Index
35
Per Serving
Nutrition breakdown for one serving
📏
Serving Size
100g fresh sea buckthorn
Calories
82kcal
Breakdown
Carbs
15.6g
Fiber
4.3g
14% DV
Sugar
6.8g
Protein
1.4g
Fat
5.3g
Vitamin C
💊
152mg
190% DV
Health Benefits
Extraordinary vitamin C content (190% DV) provides exceptional immune support, powerful antioxidant protection, and comprehensive cellular defense against oxidative damage
Exceptionally high vitamin A (65% DV) supports vision health, skin health, and immune function with powerful carotenoid antioxidants
High vitamin E (21% DV) provides exceptional cellular antioxidant protection, skin health support, and cardiovascular wellness
Unique omega fatty acid profile (omega-3 and omega-6) supports skin health, cardiovascular wellness, and cellular function
Very low glycemic index (35) and load (5) support stable blood sugar levels, sustained energy, and metabolic wellness
Excellent fiber content (14% DV) supports digestive health, gut microbiome wellness, and comprehensive wellness
Copper (13% DV) and iron (10% DV) support immune function, oxygen transport, and energy production
Traditional use supports comprehensive skin health, immune wellness, and cellular vitality
Exceptional nutrient density supports comprehensive nutrition in low-calorie superfruit
Research increasingly validates sea buckthorn's superior antioxidant and wellness-supporting properties
Origin & Distribution
Native Region
Asia and Northern Europe
Global Presence
ChinaTibetMongoliaRussiaScandinaviaNorthern EuropeKazakhstan
Top Producers
ChinaRussiaMongolia
Historical Background
Sea buckthorn has been valued in traditional Chinese medicine and Nordic folk medicine for thousands of years. Native to Asia and Northern Europe, sea buckthorn represents the botanical heritage of harsh northern climates. Traditional use emphasizes comprehensive wellness, skin health, and immune support. Modern scientific research increasingly validates traditional knowledge about sea buckthorn's exceptional nutritional and therapeutic properties.
Peak Season
Best Time to Enjoy
Peak season September-November
3 Varieties Available
Explore Varieties
Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications
Asian Sea Buckthorn
China, Tibet, Mongolia
Color
Bright orange to golden-orange
Taste Profile
Tart, complex flavor, slight sweetness
Best For
Juices, traditional preparations, oils
European Sea Buckthorn
Scandinavia, Russia, Northern Europe
Color
Orange-red, uniform appearance
Taste Profile
Tart with subtle sweetness, balanced flavor
Best For
Fresh applications, contemporary recipes, jams
Siberian Sea Buckthorn
Russia, Mongolia, Siberia
Color
Deep golden-orange
Taste Profile
Very tart, intense flavor, minimal sweetness
Best For
Concentrates, premium preparations, medicinal uses
Storage & Selection Guide
Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer
How to Choose the Perfect Fruit
1
Select sea buckthorn berries that are bright orange or golden-orange indicating full ripeness
2
Choose berries that are firm with smooth appearance
3
Avoid berries with bruises, soft spots, or discoloration indicating damage
4
Ripe sea buckthorn should emit distinctive tart, fresh fragrance
5
Look for consistent color without any green patches
6
Fresh berries should feel plump and intact
Proper Storage Methods
Store fresh sea buckthorn at room temperature for 1-2 days in cool conditions
Refrigerate berries in produce drawer for up to 2 weeks
Freeze sea buckthorn berries whole on parchment-lined trays for 8-12 months
Transfer frozen berries to airtight containers for convenient storage
Sea buckthorn juice concentrates store refrigerated for months
Sea buckthorn oil stores in cool, dark conditions for extended periods
Shelf Life Guide
Refrigerated
14 days in refrigerator (fresh berries)
Average Shelf Life
14 days
Freezing Instructions
Preserve freshness for months
2-3 months
1
Wash and dry sea buckthorn berries thoroughly before freezing
2
Freeze whole berries on parchment-lined trays for 2-3 hours
3
Transfer to freezer bags for convenient long-term storage
4
Alternatively, blend into puree and freeze in ice cube trays
5
Frozen sea buckthorn maintains exceptional vitamin C potency for 8-12 months
6
Thaw in refrigerator before use in juices, smoothies, or cooked preparations
Pro Tip
Label frozen items with the date to track freshness. Most fruits maintain quality for 2-3 months when properly frozen. For best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Culinary Journey
Discover delicious possibilities
Common Uses
Fresh eating as distinctive tart snack
Nordic and Asian traditional preparations
Contemporary superfruit cuisine applications
Juices and concentrated beverages
Jams and traditional preserves
Smoothies and health drinks
Sea buckthorn oil production
Culinary and medicinal applications
Perfect Pairings
Honey - natural sweetness balanceApple - sweetness and tartness harmonyGinger - warming spice enhancementTurmeric - wellness spice pairingCinnamon - aromatic enhancementCitrus fruits - brightness enhancementBerries - antioxidant complementCoconut - creamy balanceVanilla - subtle sweetness pairing
Popular Recipes
Fresh sea buckthorn juice
Sea buckthorn and honey preparation
Nordic sea buckthorn smoothie bowl
Sea buckthorn jam with warming spices
Sea buckthorn and apple blend
Traditional Asian sea buckthorn remedy
Sea buckthorn wellness tonic
Sea buckthorn oil extract
Fusion sea buckthorn culinary creations
Refreshing Beverages
Fresh sea buckthorn juice
Sea buckthorn smoothie
Nordic sea buckthorn drink
Sea buckthorn and honey refreshment
Sea buckthorn wellness shot
Sea buckthorn herbal infusion
Sea buckthorn antioxidant tonic
Safety Information
Allergy Information:
Sea buckthorn allergies are rare. Some individuals may have sensitivity to berries or specific plant families.
Pesticide Concerns:
Sea buckthorn grows wild in harsh northern regions typically free from pesticides. Cultivated sources from certified producers generally use minimal pesticides. Choose certified, organically grown sources when available.
Who Should Avoid:
- • People with berry allergies should exercise caution and test in small amounts
- • Those with sensitive digestive systems should introduce gradually due to tartness and fiber content
- • Individuals with specific fruit sensitivities should test first
- • Sea buckthorn oil supplements may interact with blood thinners; consult healthcare provider
- • Very few contraindications; generally safe for virtually all populations
Possible Side Effects:
- •Generally very well-tolerated in normal amounts
- •High fiber content may cause digestive effects in sensitive individuals when first introduced
- •Tart flavor may require gradual introduction for sensitive palates
- •Sea buckthorn oil supplements may cause mild gastric effects in some individuals
- •Very rare sensitivity reactions in individuals with berry allergies
Preparation Safety:
- • Wash berries thoroughly under running water before consumption
- • Sea buckthorn juice can be tart; dilute with water or blend with sweet fruits
- • Sea buckthorn oil supplements should follow dosage recommendations
- • Use clean utensils when preparing sea buckthorn products
- • Store properly to prevent rapid decay or mold development
- • Purchase from certified, reputable sources ensuring food safety and quality
Fun Facts
Surprising trivia you'll love!
Sea buckthorn has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 1,200 years
The fruit's extraordinary vitamin C content (190% DV) makes it one of the richest natural sources
Sea buckthorn is one of the few fruits containing both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
In Tibetan medicine, sea buckthorn is valued for comprehensive wellness and longevity support
The fruit's bright orange color comes from exceptional carotenoid and flavonoid concentration
Sea buckthorn thrives in harsh northern climates where most other fruits cannot grow
Russian cosmonauts consumed sea buckthorn for skin and immune support during space missions
Sea buckthorn oil has been used in Scandinavian traditional medicine for centuries
The fruit's tart flavor makes it excellent for pairing with sweet fruits and honey in traditional preparations
Modern research increasingly validates sea buckthorn's exceptional antioxidant and wellness-supporting properties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sea buckthorn and where does it come from?
GeneralSea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a distinctive northern superfruit native to Asia and Northern Europe. Valued for thousands of years in traditional Chinese and Nordic medicine, sea buckthorn is celebrated for its extraordinary vitamin C content (190% DV per 100g), unique omega fatty acid profile, and exceptional wellness benefits.
What are the nutritional benefits of sea buckthorn?
NutritionSea buckthorn delivers extraordinary vitamin C (190% DV per 100g), exceptional vitamin A (65% DV), high vitamin E (21% DV), unique omega fatty acids, copper (13% DV), iron (10% DV), and excellent fiber (14% DV). At 82 calories per 100g with very low glycemic index (35), sea buckthorn provides comprehensive nutritional benefits.
What are omega fatty acids and why are they in sea buckthorn?
HealthSea buckthorn is unique among fruits for containing both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids support skin health, cardiovascular wellness, and cellular function. Sea buckthorn berries and especially their oil are renowned for exceptional omega content, making them valuable for comprehensive wellness.
Is sea buckthorn good for skin health?
HealthYes, sea buckthorn is exceptional for skin health with extraordinary vitamin C (190% DV), exceptional vitamin A (65% DV), high vitamin E (21% DV), copper (13% DV) for collagen formation, and unique omega fatty acids. The comprehensive nutrient profile makes sea buckthorn highly effective for skin wellness and cellular protection.
How does sea buckthorn taste?
GeneralSea buckthorn has a distinctively tart, complex flavor with slight sweetness. The taste varies by variety: Asian varieties have balanced tart-sweet notes, European varieties offer subtle sweetness, and Siberian varieties are very tart and intense. The tart profile makes it excellent for juices, smoothies, and blended preparations.
What is the glycemic index of sea buckthorn?
NutritionSea buckthorn has a very low glycemic index of 35 and glycemic load of 5 per 100g serving. Combined with excellent fiber content (14% DV), this makes sea buckthorn suitable for blood sugar management, stable energy, and comprehensive metabolic wellness.
Where can you buy sea buckthorn?
ShoppingFresh sea buckthorn berries are available at specialty produce shops and European/Asian markets, particularly during peak season (September-November). Year-round options include frozen sea buckthorn berries, sea buckthorn juice, sea buckthorn oil, sea buckthorn jam, and sea buckthorn supplements from health retailers and online vendors.
How should sea buckthorn be prepared?
RecipesFresh sea buckthorn is best consumed in juices, smoothies, or jams due to its tart flavor. Blend berries with honey or sweet fruits to balance tartness. Sea buckthorn oil can be taken as supplement or used in skincare. The distinctive flavor pairs beautifully with honey, apples, ginger, and warming spices.
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Environmental Impact
Sustainability insights
Sustainability Overview
Sea buckthorn cultivation supports northern ecosystem health and soil preservation. Support sustainably harvested sea buckthorn from certified sources honoring traditional harvesting practices and environmental conservation.
Carbon Footprint
Wild-harvested sea buckthorn from northern regions has minimal carbon footprint. Choose locally available frozen berries or juice products to reduce transportation impact while supporting northern producers.
Water Usage
Sea buckthorn cultivation in northern regions utilizes natural rainfall patterns. Support rain-fed cultivation to minimize water impact in sustainable practices.
Local vs Imported
Purchase from northern producers to support traditional harvesting communities, maintain cultural food practices, preserve traditional knowledge, and minimize global carbon footprint.