© Pexels/Eva Bronzini
Sea buckthorn is even said to help with weight loss.
June 8, 2025
Birgitta Dunckel
Small berries with a big impact: Why the superfood sea buckthorn is so healthy and how it works
Find a DoctorSearch the network for suitable specialists and contact them directly
Researchers at Memorial University in Newfoundland (Canada) agree: The bittersweet berry has the potential to be a superstar among the nutrient-rich miracle weapons of nature. It is not only exceptionally healthy but also helps with weight loss.
The hardy shrubs (Hippophae rhamnoides) are native to the sandy coastal areas of Europe and Asia. In Germany, they are mainly found in the coastal areas of the North and Baltic Seas. They are particularly common on Sylt, Föhr, and Amrum, but also along the Baltic coast of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
Not new: The berry contains many vitamins – our grandmothers already knew that. They are brimming with vitamin C, which is why the plant is also called the lemon of the north, with the small berry containing up to ten times more vitamin C than its yellow competitor.
The power berry supports the immune system and is important for skin health. It is also rich in vitamin E, provitamin A, iron, magnesium and calcium. Sea buckthorn contains a variety of antioxidants that help combat cell damage. Omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids strengthen the cardiovascular system and have anti-inflammatory effects.
By the way, the lemon of the north is one of the few plant-based foods that contain vitamin B12, which is otherwise mainly found in meat, fish, eggs, and milk. This makes the fruit very interesting for vegans and vegetarians.
It is one of the best plant sources of palmitoleic acid (omega-7 fatty acid). This acid is said to offset a high carbohydrate intake and thus prevent overweight. Additionally, vitamin B12 helps break down hunger-inducing fatty acids, vitamin C boosts fat burning, and polyphenols positively influence well-being.
In an experiment with mice, researchers found that taking sea buckthorn inhibits weight gain because the hormone leptin, which is responsible for the feeling of hunger, is reduced.
What worked for mice also works for humans: In a study with overweight participants, the power berry ensured that waist circumference shrank by one centimeter per month. The desire for sweets decreased – even caffeine and nicotine were more easily given up by the participants.
It stands to reason that the superfood helps lead a healthier lifestyle and puts an end to numerous vices.
The small berries are quite sour when raw, so many people resort to other forms of consumption. Sea buckthorn is available as a powder, capsule, juice, oil, and tea. Of course, the berries can also be processed into jam or compote.
Sea buckthorn is also popular in cosmetics and is used for its healing powers in cases of eczema, acne, and dermatitis because it has disinfectant and anti-inflammatory properties. For external application, there are creams, ointments, and oils. The lemon of the north can also effectively help with sun allergies and sunburn.
Since the berries are very sour when raw, consuming them in large quantities can lead to stomach issues in sensitive individuals. Otherwise, the fruit is very well tolerated, and side effects are not expected.
