‘Siberian miracle’ could prevent aging, cancer and illness

One unassuming berry has so many benefits that it’s been called a “Siberian miracle.”

The tiny fruit, roughly the same size as blueberries, pack quite the health punch and could prevent several conditions like cancer, heart disease and diabetes, some research suggests.

And the best part? This power plant can be found in a variety of products, including shampoos, juices and skin cream.

Used for thousands of years in Southeast Asia and Europe as a natural remedy, sea buckthorn is a hardy shrub marked by bright orange-yellow berries. Scientifically known as Hippophae rhamnoides, it grows in rugged coastal regions and at high altitudes.

Both the sea buckthorn berries and the seed oil provide plenty of nutrients that yield an array of health results, as one study found.

A 2021 review found that sea buckthorn has a promising nutritional profile, containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, potassium, iron, polyphenols (plant-based compounds high in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties) and vitamins A, C and E, to name a few.

Naturally full of antioxidants, sea buckthorn may protect your body from aging as well as ailments like cancer and heart disease.

The anti-aging effects of the bold berry are particularly noticeable in the skin, with a study on mice suggesting improved skin elasticity and collagen production.

It’s high amount of vitamin C, E and K could also prevent the development of fine lines and wrinkles.

A good source of omega-6 fatty acids linoleic acid and gamma linolenic acid, it could reduce acne and psoriasis while promoting hydrated skin.

There are plenty more omega fatty acids in sea buckthorn oil, including omega-3, 7 and 9, which all provide heart boosting benefits. Along with omega-6, these have positive effects on blood pressure and cardiovascular disease like heart attack and strokes.

Sea buckthorn may also support heart health from it’s rich-polyphenol content, which protects the body from damage and disease.

But the berry’s benefits don’t stop there. Some lab and animal studies have shown promising anticancer effects for breast, liver and cervical cancers.

Sea buckthorn oil may even restore appetite and counteract other side effects of chemotherapy.

The antioxidants, vitamins C and E, and omega fatty acids could all work together to support the immune system, as laboratory studies seem to suggest.

Those who struggle with high blood sugar levels and diabetes may also benefit from the plant.

A small study saw a slight decrease in blood sugar levels of those who drank a sea buckthorn puree, showing possible diabetes prevention.

Sea buckthorn could cause some side effects, like upset stomach, nausea or vomiting because of the high acidity of the berries.

Consuming the berry could also change the color of urine to a dark yellow or orange, but this isn’t harmful and is only due to naturally-occurring compounds.