ING-172Ingredient Research Profile

Superfoods & Botanicals

Sea Buckthorn Oil

Also known as: Hippophae rhamnoides · Seaberry · Omega-7 oil

●●○Moderate Evidence

A unique berry oil rich in omega-7 (palmitoleic acid) — a fatty acid with emerging evidence for dry eye syndrome, skin mucous membrane health, and cardiovascular benefit.

Effective Dose

1–2g / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Moderate

Superfoods & Botanicals

Mechanism

Omega-7 (palmitoleic acid), vitamin E, carotenoids, polyphenols

primary action

Best For

Dry eyes

Skin health, Gut mucosal healing, Cardiovascular

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Sea Buckthorn Oil?

Sea buckthorn berries produce two distinct oils: seed oil (rich in omega-3 and omega-6) and pulp oil (the highest natural source of omega-7 palmitoleic acid). Palmitoleic acid is an unusual monounsaturated fat with roles in mucous membrane integrity, insulin sensitivity improvement, and cardiovascular protection.

How It Works: The Science

Palmitoleic acid (C16:1n-7) is incorporated into mucous membrane phospholipids and has documented roles in reducing liver fat accumulation (hepatic lipogenesis inhibition via SREBPs), improving insulin sensitivity, and maintaining the lipid film of the tear film (dry eye relief). It also activates PPAR-α and reduces inflammatory cytokine production.

Primary Mechanism

Omega-7 (palmitoleic acid), vitamin E, carotenoids, polyphenols

Evidence-Based Benefits

Reduces dry eye symptoms

moderate

Järvinen et al. (2002) — sea buckthorn oil significantly reduced dry eye osmolarity and symptoms

Improves skin integrity and mucosal moisture

moderate

Larmo et al. (2010) — improved vaginal dryness in menopausal women

Improves lipid profile (reduces LDL, raises HDL)

moderate

Multiple RCTs — significant improvements in lipid markers

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

1–2g / day

1–2g/day sea buckthorn pulp oil (standardised for omega-7 content). Products should specify pulp vs seed oil — seed oil has different fatty acid profile without the omega-7 benefit.

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Excellent safety profile as a food oil. Very well tolerated. Orange skin discolouration at very high doses (from carotenoids) is possible but harmless.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for

Dry eyesSkin healthGut mucosal healingCardiovascular

Who it's for

Those with dry eyes (computer workers, menopausal women), those with dry skin and mucosal membrane issues, and anyone wanting the unique omega-7 cardiovascular benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Sea Buckthorn Oil?

1–2g/day sea buckthorn pulp oil (standardised for omega-7 content). Products should specify pulp vs seed oil — seed oil has different fatty acid profile without the omega-7 benefit.

Is Sea Buckthorn Oil safe?

Excellent safety profile as a food oil. Very well tolerated. Orange skin discolouration at very high doses (from carotenoids) is possible but harmless.

How does Sea Buckthorn Oil work?

Who should take Sea Buckthorn Oil?

Those with dry eyes (computer workers, menopausal women), those with dry skin and mucosal membrane issues, and anyone wanting the unique omega-7 cardiovascular benefit.

Related Ingredients

Omega-3 (EPA + DHA)Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols)Evening Primrose Oil (GLA)

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →