Apr 23, 2024

Sea Buckthorn Oil for Protecting and Nourishing Skin

Over the years, the interest in holistic and natural therapies has increased. People are keen to try DIY remedies for common health issues instead of opting for aggressive medical treatments. When it comes to holistic remedies, practitioners and consumers often look at age-old secrets with proven benefits.

Sea Buckthorn oil is among the tried and true natural remedies acclaimed for its efficacy in treating several ailments. It is a part of the traditional Chinese and ancient Ayurvedic medicines. It is sourced from the Sea Buckthorn plant, a small shrub hailing from the high altitudes of the northwest Himalayas. The berries, seeds, and leaves of the plant yield this oil. While you can consume Sea Buckthorn fruit orally, the oil can be used for topical application. ¹

Before digging deep into the Sea Buckthorn oil benefits for skin, we will evaluate its nutrient profile. We will also share potential side effects and precautions you must follow while using it as a remedy.

Nutrient Profile of Sea Buckthorn Oil

Sea Buckthorn oil is called the holy fruit of the Himalayas for good reasons. The secret of Sea Buckthorn oil benefits lies in its rich nutrient profile. Loaded with plant compounds, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this product has numerous healing properties. Its leaves and seeds contain phytosterols. Vitamins A, C, K, and E are found in the berries of the plant. Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, copper, and zinc are present in significant amounts. ²

Seed oil and berry oil are the two forms of Sea Buckthorn oil. The seed oil is obtained by the cold pressing method, while the berry oil is sourced by CO2 extraction of the fruit pulp. Both variants differ in colors, textures, and nutrient contents. The seed oil is light in color and texture and relatively low in nutrients. Conversely, the berry oil is dark red in color, has a thicker texture, and is loaded with skin-beneficial nutrients.

Both variants contain palmitoleic acid, which also occurs naturally in the fat of human skin. It is also among the only plant foods providing all four omega fatty acids. Additionally, most of the fat in it is healthy, namely mono- and polyunsaturated fat. With the wealth of nutrients Sea Buckthorn oil contains, it is easy to understand its therapeutic potential. It is specifically beneficial for skin, addressing a host of skin-related conditions.

Sea Buckthorn Oil Benefits for Skin

When it comes to listing Sea Buckthorn oil benefits, you will probably find its skincare uses on top of all lists. We will highlight them to explain why you should integrate this miracle product into your skincare regimen.

Works as a Multi-Vitamin for Your Skin

Your skin needs a fair share of nutrients to stay healthy and beautiful. Using Sea Buckthorn oil for complexion care is just like popping a multivitamin supplement to maintain your health and energy levels. Here are the ways the nutrients in this product boost skin health:

Vitamin E helps neutralize free radicals and protects your skin against environmental stressors
Vitamin A reduces the appearance of uneven skin tone, wrinkles, and breakouts ³
Vitamin K brightens the complexion and reduces dark spots
Lycopene is known to minimize photodamage and improve moisture levels
Zeaxanthin fortifies the skin against blue light damage⁴

Provides Protective Polyphenols

Sea Buckthorn oil is rich in polyphenols, naturally occurring compounds with immense skin benefits. Topical application of polyphenols prevents oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and environmental aggressors. Polyphenols can also curb the breakdown of collagen and elastin by inhibiting certain enzymes. Collagen and elastin maintain the elasticity of the skin to keep it looking young and taut over the years.⁵

Offers Skin Strengthening Phytosterols

Exposure to sunlight can cause photoaging of the skin, resulting in collagen breakdown and the appearance of fine lines. Phytosterols can block the collagen synthesis after UV irradiation. Additionally, they support and strengthen the skin by reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). Sea Buckthorn oil's benefits for the skin are attributed to its high concentrations of phytosterols.⁶

Packs Healthy Omega Fatty Acids

Sea Buckthorn oil contains a rare combination of all four healthy omega fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6, omega-7, and omega-9). Besides improving the overall appearance of the skin, these fatty acids support optimal skin function. Other benefits include improved skin hydration, balanced oil production, and protection from dryness. An optimal oil balance minimizes the possibility of breakouts and blackheads in the long run. ⁷

Gives Deep Moisturization

Since Sea Buckthorn oil is biocompatible, it works as a natural nutrient-rich moisturizer. You can rely on it to keep your complexion hydrated and supple. Optimal moisturization slows down the signs of aging like the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You can rest assured about an even skin tone that keeps you looking radiant and beautiful as you grow old.

Other Sea Buckthorn Oil Benefits

Although much is said about Sea Buckthorn oil's benefits for the skin, this product offers much more. With its expansive nutrient profile, Sea Buckthorn oil offers several nourishing and protective properties. Here are a few ways it may enhance your well-being beyond improving your complexion’s health and texture.

Heart Health

Research shows that Sea Buckthorn oil may be beneficial for cardiovascular health in several ways. The phytosterols give it natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that lower the risk of heart disease. Further, the compound keeps cholesterol from being absorbed from the diet. It prevents arterial blockage due to LDL (bad) cholesterol. Quercetin in Sea Buckthorn oil is also known to lower the risk of heart disease.⁸

A study showed that consuming 0.75 ml of Sea Buckthorn oil every day can effectively lower blood pressure levels. Likewise, people with high cholesterol levels also experienced a decrease in LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These factors indicate the potential heart health benefits of Sea Buckthorn oil.⁹

Blood Sugar Control

Supporting healthy blood sugar levels is one of the most significant Sea Buckthorn oil benefits. According to animal studies, it may lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion. A recent human study has also reiterated the link. Subjects with impaired blood sugar regulation witnessed significantly lower blood sugar levels after consuming Sea Buckthorn fruit purée. While more research is required in this direction, there is still hope.¹⁰^,¹¹

Better Immunity

Sea buckthorn oil may promote the immune function and protect you from infections. Flavonoids occurring naturally in it have the potential to boost immunity. It also contains antioxidants, which defend your system from disease-causing microbes. More studies are required, but it is definitely a good way to be healthier. ¹²

Liver Health

Another potential Sea Buckthorn oil benefit is better liver health. Components like vitamin E, carotenoids, and healthy fats may be effective for safeguarding liver cells from damage. A 6-month study showed that people with cirrhosis saw an increase in blood markers of liver function after consuming 15 grams of sea buckthorn extract thrice a day. ¹³

Anticancer Effects

Antioxidants and flavonoids occurring naturally in Sea Buckthorn oil may make it effective against cancer. Vitamin E, carotenoids, and quercetin are acclaimed for their potential to lower the risk of cancer. Besides their protective action, they may also prevent the spread of cancerous cells in the body. While studies providing these pieces of evidence have been conducted on lab animals, the results will be more helpful once human studies are done. ¹⁴

Besides the aforementioned Sea Buckthorn oil benefits, scientific evidence states many more. Animal studies indicate its efficacy in improving digestion and preventing stomach ulcers. It may reduce menopausal symptoms such as vaginal drying and serve as a viable alternative to hormone replacement therapy. The small amounts of lecithin in Sea Buckthorn oil may enhance hair health. Lecithin is a fat that may eliminate excess oil from your hair, restore its elasticity, and repair damage.¹⁵^,¹⁶

How to Use Sea Buckthorn Oil?

Now that you know the immense benefits of Sea Buckthorn oil for skin and overall health, you will want to understand how to integrate it into your wellness routine. Let us address the question regarding the use of Sea Buckthorn oil:

Topical Application

Pure Sea Buckthorn oil can be used for topical application. You can use it as a spot treatment for different skin conditions, from acne to wrinkles, eczema, and dark spots. In addition to beauty enhancement, it can soothe and heal cuts and wounds. However, you should start with only a drop if you are not adding carrier oil. Alternatively, you can dilute pure oil with carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil to mitigate its strength. You may also find infused skincare products in the market.

Add Pure Oil to a Personal Care Product

Besides mixing pure Sea Buckthorn oil with a carrier oil, you can add it to a personal care product for excellent results. It is a great way to make your daily skincare and hair care routine more effective. Go slow with the quantities because a few drops are good enough to deliver results. Here are a few ways to enhance the potential of your daily care products by adding a few drops of Sea Buckthorn oil.

Facial and Body Lotion: Smooth and supple skin with a reduction in the appearance of Rosacea and blemishes
Sunscreen: Oxidant support and hydration
Shaving Cream: Moisturize skin and get a closer shave
Hair Conditioner: Shiny, frizz-free, and silky hair with a healthier scalp

Soft Gel Oil Capsules

Beyond topical application, you can also consume Sea Buckthorn oil orally in the form of soft gel oil capsules. The no-hassle nutritional supplement is easy to dose and has no taste yet offers the comprehensive health benefits of Sea Buckthorn oil. While people may consume the oil directly, its taste and texture often limit adherence. Whichever form you opt for, seek advice from your healthcare provider, specifically if you have an underlying condition. Also, go through the product labels for dosage and safety.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Like any medicine or herbal remedy, Sea Buckthorn oil may have some side effects. While consuming the fruit itself is likely safe, you may experience some side effects when taking the oil as a supplement or using it for topical application. These include gastrointestinal symptoms and yellow to orange discoloration of the skin (Carotenodermia). No severe side effects have been reported, but possible drug interactions may be reported.

However, a few precautions are enough to minimize the adverse reactions of Sea Buckthorn oil. Here are a few recommended ones you must follow while using this herbal remedy:

Avoid using Sea Buckthorn oil during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Since Sea Buckthorn oil may slow blood clotting, people with bleeding disorders may be at risk of bruising and bleeding. People planning to undergo surgery should discontinue use a few weeks before the procedure.
Low blood pressure is another complication linked with Sea Buckthorn oil taken as a medicine. Skip it if you already have low blood pressure.
Drug interactions may occur with blood-sugar-lowering medications and anticoagulant /antiplatelet drugs. Avoid using Sea Buckthorn oil when taking these medications.

Safe dosing is another factor you should be aware of when using Sea Buckthorn oil or supplements. The ideal dose, like any medication, is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on individual factors such as the age, physiology, and health of the consumer. The best way to nail the dosage is by reading the product labels and checking with an expert. You may start low and slow to understand how it works for you, and gradually apply or consume more until you hit the sweet spot.

The Bottom Line

Using Sea Buckthorn oil for the skin is a great idea because it is safe, effective, and natural. You can apply it on wrinkles, pimples, wounds, scars, and age spots regularly to experience a difference sooner rather than later. Besides the skincare benefits, Sea Buckthorn oil has a lot more to offer, from a healthy heart to liver healing, blood sugar control, and blood pressure reduction. It even has anticancer properties, thanks to its rich nutritional profile.

However, getting optimal Sea Buckthorn oil benefits is about choosing the right product, sticking with an apt dosage, and following the recommended safety precautions. This comprehensive Sea Buckthorn oil guide offers all the information you need to avail yourself of the best benefits of this miracle healer without worrying about adverse effects.

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