12,000 feet above sea level in the Tibetan Himalayas resides the Hippophae Rhannoides, Greek for “shining horses”. The Greeks discovered long ago the power of the sea buckthorn berry to improve the condition and luster of their horses’ manes.
In many different cultures since its first recorded use 1,300 years ago, this superfood has been used as a kind of cure-all. It has been utilized as a treatment for internal issues including inflammation, skin defects and lung disorders, as well as to combat external signs of aging and fatigue. Villagers in the Himalayas have even boasted that the berry literally keeps away sickness: One such town has apparently not seen a death among its inhabitants in 40 years. They, of course, consume sea buckthorn berry regularly.
The Science
What makes this little berry such a powerhouse? In large part, we can thank its unfriendly environment. In order to survive in such an extreme climate, the sea buckthorn berry has to protect itself from the elements. It produces an incredibly potent variety of nutrients (over 190 in total!). It is an unparalleled source of Omegas 3, 6, 7 and 9, which benefit the hair, skin and nails, as well as increase collagen production. It also boasts amino acids, folic acid, Vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D, K and P, 42 lipids and much more.
The Benefits
Other benefits of the sea buckthorn berry include increased energy, joint support, moisturized skin, decreased fine lines and wrinkles, and improved immune system function. It’s been said that Himalayan villagers who have incorporated the berry into their diets on a regular basis outwardly appear to be much younger, and that the addition of the ingredient to shampoo can even slow the graying of hair.
The Products
Luckily, the sea buckthorn berry can be added to your health regime in many different ways. While there are supplements in pill form, liquid and juice, there are also topical products from serum to seed oil, cleanser to shampoo. A few of my favorite sea buckthorn berry products are produced by Sibu Beauty, a line that is certified USDA organic and cruelty-free. Sibu’s founder, Bruce McMullin, insists that their company is unique from competition in that they harvest their berries by hand in the mountain villages of the Himalayas. Their methods are taken from age-old practices that have been yielding results for centuries.
Here’s a rundown on my top three Sibu Beauty products:
Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil ($15.95) – This is a topical treatment used to treat eczema, acne, rosacea, burns, wounds and to improve the overall tone and texture of skin. This treatment can be used like a nighttime serum, applied after cleansing and left to work its magic on skin overnight.
Sibu Raw ($49.95) – This supplement is the sea buckthorn berry in its purest form. This very concentrated puree requires only 1-2 ounces per day to enjoy its full benefits. When taken regularly this liquid can improve your immune system, gastrointestinal function, skin and mucus membrane health and energy levels. Sibu Raw is fair-trade, hand-harvested, additive- and preservative-free. Note: this product must be kept refrigerated.
Sea Buckthorn Balancing Facial Cleanser ($17.95) – This is an all-natural cleanser that aims to balance your skin. It removes dirt and impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils or protective nutrients. This cleanser lightly exfoliates with micro-particles to gently reveal a fresh, clean layer of skin. Suitable for all skin types, this cleanser will leave your skin radiant and smooth.
To discover Sibu Beauty’s full line of Sea Buckthorn Berry products, as well as to learn more about the history and harvesting process of this super-food, visit their website.
