The benefits of sea buckthorn oil for the body — 8 facts and how to take it
Sea buckthorn oil, like many other oils, has been known since ancient times. In folk medicine, it has been used to treat wounds, heart diseases and strengthen immunity.
To date, science has proven a number of medicinal properties of sea buckthorn oil for health.
Top 8 useful properties
Below are 8 main theses about the benefits of taking sea buckthorn oil (based on science).
1. Saturates the body with nutrients
According to the information Polish scientists, sea buckthorn oil is a rich source of vitamins, minerals and plant compounds with antioxidant and anti–inflammatory activity.
Flavonoids and quercetin are singled out separately among antioxidants. These substances reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular and oncological diseases at any age.
Sea buckthorn oil is distinguished by an abundance of calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus and vitamins (B1, B2, B6, C, E).
Indian experts installed that the product contains all kinds of polyunsaturated fatty acids: omega-3, omega-6, omega-7 and omega-9. They are effective in the treatment of obesity, gout, osteoporosis, urolithiasis and even hair loss on the scalp.
2. Strengthens the heart and blood vessels
Antioxidants in the oil reduce the risk of fatal cardiovascular disasters caused by high blood pressure, as well as the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and blood clots inside the vessels.
Experts from Finland proved the ability of sea buckthorn oil (when consumed 5 grams per day) reduce blood viscosity , which prevents the appearance of thrombotic masses inside the vessels. The active substances of sea buckthorn inhibit the rate of platelet aggregation.
Also installed that the drug reduces the level of total and "bad" (LDL, TAG) cholesterol in the blood. As a result, there are no prerequisites for the formation of cholesterol plaques and the development of pathologies such as coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, stroke.
Such properties of sea buckthorn oil allow significantly reduce elevated blood pressure levels, which makes it useful for older age groups. It is at this age that hypertension occurs with a record high frequency.
3. Reduces the risk of developing diabetes mellitus
Animal experiments performed by experts from Tianjin University of Science and Technology (China) demonstrate the ability of sea buckthorn oil to lower blood sugar levels.
The healing effect is based on the ability of the active components of the product to increase the secretion of endogenous insulin and the sensitivity of peripheral receptors (on muscle and adipose tissues) to insulin.
How underline Finnish scientists, oil prevents sudden spikes in glucose concentration in blood plasma after eating a meal rich in carbohydrates.
Sea buckthorn oil interferes with the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats in the body, but not sex hormones. It can be used by both men and women to prevent and control obesity and type II diabetes mellitus.
4. Improves skin health
The active vegetable compounds of the oil have proven themselves well for cosmetic purposes.
Animal experiments demonstrate the ability of the product to accelerate the regeneration of the skin after any damage, thereby accelerating the healing of wounds and burns, trophic ulcers.
Korean scientists discovered that sea buckthorn oil protects the skin from the effects of harmful ultraviolet solar radiation.
Also installed the ability of the product to increase the smoothness and elasticity of the skin, eliminate small wrinkles on the face.
Most of the positive effects of herbal remedies related with the presence of large amounts of omega-3 and omega-7 fatty acids in the composition.
5. Strengthens the immune system
This oil is rich in antioxidant substances (flavonoids), which Stimulate the immune system .
Sea buckthorn suppresses growth and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms, preventing the development of infectious and inflammatory diseases.
Proven effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of staphylococci and E. coli.
Selected studies underline the effectiveness of a plant product in order to inhibit the vital activity of influenza viruses, herpes and even human immunodeficiency.
Sea buckthorn oil can be used to prevent acute respiratory infections and alleviate their course – eliminate sore throat and nasal congestion, normalize the general condition.
The product can also be used in dentistry – to improve the health of the gums, eliminate cracks in the corners of the lips.
6. Improves liver health
Sea buckthorn oil is a rich source of polyunsaturated fats, vitamin E and beta-carotene. These substances protect liver cells from damage.
According to the data employees of Tsung Shan Medical University (Taiwan) the active substances of sea buckthorn reduce the concentration of ALT and AST in the blood. An increase in the number of these molecules indicates damage to liver cells by drugs and other toxic substances.
Sea buckthorn oil is recommended to be added to the diet for massive therapy of chronic and acute diseases, when it is necessary to take antibiotics, nonsteroidal analgesics and other hepatotoxic substances.
7. Fighting cancer
Quercetin, flavonoids and other substances in the composition of sea buckthorn oil, such as show the work of Italian experts destroys malignant cells.
At least effective Vitamin E and carotenoids are used to prevent and slow the progression of cancer.
Of course, the effectiveness of the oil below compared to chemotherapeutic drugs recommended by doctors. However, they are able to suppress the effect of free radicals on all cells of the human body, preventing the appearance of malignant processes and some chronic diseases (Crohn's disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, etc.).
8. Improves intestinal health
Animal experiments underline the ability of sea buckthorn oil to inhibit the development and assist in the treatment of diseases such as ulcers and erosion of the stomach, gastritis and duodenitis.
The medical industry manufactures candles with the addition of this herbal remedy for the treatment of hemorrhoids.
Installed that sea buckthorn is able to normalize the work of the glands of external secretion (liver and pancreas). As a result, the intestine receives a sufficient amount of enzymes to digest the food consumed, and dyspeptic disorders (diarrhea, increased gas formation) are less common.
Possible harm
Sea buckthorn oil has contraindications and can sometimes cause significant harm. The most common adverse reactions are:
- Formation of gallstones in the gallbladder and urinary system. The oil contains substances that enhance the formation of concretions and lead to the development of cholelithiasis and urolithiasis.
- Exacerbation of chronic intestinal diseases. In small amounts, the oil accelerates the restoration of the mucous membranes of the digestive tube after any damage, but in excessive amounts, the risk of ulcerative or erosive defects increases.
- Allergic reactions. They are caused by the increased sensitivity of the body to certain components of the sea buckthorn composition. Allergopathologies occur mainly in mild form (urticaria, itching, rhinorrhea).
Sea buckthorn oil can be taken by pregnant women. It normalizes metabolic processes and reduces the risk of inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system, as well as constipation and hemorrhoids, which are extremely common.
The oil can be given to children starting from the age of 7. The recommended dose for a child is 1 tablespoon per day. The product contains all the substances necessary for the growth and development of the body.
Admission Tips
Let's look at some simple recommendations that will reveal the full biological potential of the oil:
- Methods of administration and dosage. The recommended daily allowance of oil is 20-25 ml, the maximum permissible is 75-100 ml. It can be taken both in its pure form and diluted with water, or used in various dishes. In case of skin diseases, local use (rubbing) is acceptable. Sea buckthorn oil can also be purchased at the pharmacy in the form of capsules.
- The optimal time. It is preferable to drink the oil in the morning and afternoon. In the absence of acute pathologies of the digestive system (or exacerbation of chronic ones), the product should be consumed on an empty stomach. Admission in the evening (at night) should be refused. Sea buckthorn oil can overload the digestive system and disrupt sleep.
- How to choose in the store. Cold pressed oil is considered the most valuable. Such a technological process preserves the maximum amount of nutrients. High-quality oil is always packed in glass containers, has expiration dates and all information about the manufacturer.
- How to store. The product can be stored in any dark, cool place, after opening – in the refrigerator for no more than 30 days.
- What can be combined with. The product is perfectly combined with citrus fruits, pineapples. It is also acceptable to use together with any vegetable salads, herbs (lettuce leaves, parsley).
- Use in cooking. The main applications of sea buckthorn oil are cosmetology and traditional medicine. It is rarely used in the culinary field. The product can be added to any fruit and vegetable salads (as a dressing), seasoning freshly prepared meat and fish dishes. Frying food in oil is prohibited!
Conclusion
- Sea buckthorn oil is a natural vegetable product rich in minerals, vitamins and antioxidant substances.
- When used correctly, it improves the health of the gastrointestinal tract, heart and blood vessels, immune system and skin. The oil effectively fights cancer and chronic diseases, as well as type II diabetes mellitus.
- The product can be consumed during pregnancy and given to children (from the age of 7, 1-2 tablespoons per day).
- It is recommended to carefully choose a remedy in stores or pharmacies, taking into account the risk of side effects.