Hippophaë rhamnoides
Etymology
Sea buckthorn has been used medicinally since antiquity. The Greeks gave the berries to horses to help them gain weight and develop shiny coats, which inspired the Latin name hippophae – from hippos (horse) and phaos (shine).
Habitat and Distribution
Sea buckthorn thrives in both mountainous and coastal dune areas, helping to combat soil erosion. It grows naturally in the Himalayan foothills, Russia, and the Alps. It is an extremely hardy shrub, tolerating temperatures as low as -40 °C, as well as drought and salty soils.
Ecological Value
Sea buckthorn is dioecious – it has separate male and female plants. For fruiting, at least one male plant is needed for every 3–5 female ones. From the 2nd or 3rd year, female plants produce vivid orange, round to oval berries that ripen in September–October and often stay on the plant through winter. They are a crucial food source and habitat for birds and small animals. The plant’s dense root system also fixes nitrogen in the soil.
Culinary and Medicinal Value
The simplest way to enjoy sea buckthorn is in smoothies, milkshakes, or fresh juices. Dried berries can be added to muffins, pancakes, puddings, or smoothie bowls. Its tart, delicate flavor makes it a great addition to sauces, vinaigrettes, and even pastries.
Used since ancient times in medicine, sea buckthorn is widely known in traditional Chinese, Japanese, and Ayurvedic practices. Internally, it can help with fatigue, colds, appetite loss, stomach and duodenal ulcers, high blood lipids, gum inflammation, respiratory problems, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Externally, it helps with eczema, burns, wrinkles, dandruff, and hair loss. Its high omega-7 content closely resembles human sebum, making it ideal for skin care.
Sources :
https://www.maison-argousier.fr/largousier-une-petite-baie-aux-multiples-bienfaits-pour-la-peau/
https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Nutrition/EncyclopedieAliments/Fiche.aspx?doc=argousier
https://www.aroma-zone.com/page/argousier-tout-savoir-sur-ses-bienfaits-et-son-utilisation