Sea buckthorn berries have been used for centuries as medicinal plants and are now being recognized for their powerful antioxidant properties in a new study. The harsh coastal environments in which these berries grow may contribute to increased antioxidants in response to environmental stressors. These berries are part of a growing list of nutraceuticals that are proving their long-held medicinal value through modern scientific research. A study from Memorial University in Newfoundland found that the sea buckthorn berries have unique nutritional characteristics that could potentially treat diabetes and obesity.
Sea buckthorn berries are popular in Asia and have been used for treating various ailments including arthritis and inflammatory conditions. They contain powerful antioxidants that can help prevent damage to the body’s cells caused by free radicals. The plant’s oil is also a rich source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, polyphenols, and various vitamins. Due to their health properties, Canadian governmental agencies introduced sea buckthorn to the country in the early 2000s, recognizing its commercial potential.
Dr. Menka Gupta, a functional medicine doctor, highlighted the traditional use of sea buckthorn berries in Asian and European countries for various health ailments. The study found promising results for using sea buckthorn berries to treat diabetes and obesity during in vitro tests. Antioxidants and dietary fiber found in these berries may help reduce inflammation and oxidative damage, potentially improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, as well as supporting metabolic health in combatting obesity.
Medicinal properties found in plants often stem from traditional use and are now being validated by modern scientific studies. Dr. Gupta mentioned that plant-based nutraceuticals provide health benefits through various mechanisms such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory effects, and gut health improvement. Common examples of modern nutraceuticals include resveratrol, astaxanthin, lignans, and plant sterols found in various fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Coastal plants like sea buckthorn produce powerful antioxidants due to challenging growth conditions, leading to greater antioxidant production.
Coastal climates may have a unique ability to produce powerful antioxidants in plants due to conditions like high-salt soil, variable moisture, and poor nutrient content. Dr. Gupta and Michelle Routhenstein noted that other coastal plants such as cranberries, rosemary, lavender, and several others have strong antioxidant properties. The challenging conditions under which coastal plants grow may increase oxidative stress in the plants, leading to higher levels of antioxidant production. Coastal plants, including sea buckthorn, are found not only along coastlines but also in inhospitable environments like high plateaus and extreme temperature regions.
Sea buckthorn is a hardy shrub that thrives in challenging environments and produces powerful antioxidants. Its unique nutritional characteristics make it a promising candidate for treating diabetes and obesity, as shown in the recent study. The antioxidants and dietary fiber found in sea buckthorn berries may help improve insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and metabolic health, supporting weight management efforts. The centuries-old use of sea buckthorn berries in traditional medicine is now being confirmed by modern science, further emphasizing the potential health benefits of this coastal plant.
