Why Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil Is Valued in Nutrition, Cosmetics, and Medicine

Sea buckthorn fruit oil is a rare plant oil extracted from the pulp of Hippophae rhamnoides berries. Unlike most vegetable oils, it is rich in palmitoleic acid (omega-7), along with vitamins, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Its unique bioactive profile makes it a premium ingredient in nutraceuticals, skin care, and pharmaceutical formulations.

Composition of Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil

Sea buckthorn fruit oil contains both fatty acids and a wide range of bioactive compounds.

• Fatty acids:

  • Palmitoleic acid (omega-7) – 25–40%

  • Palmitic acid

  • Oleic acid

  • Linoleic acid (omega-6)

  • Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3)

• Bioactives:

  • Carotenoids (beta-carotene, lycopene)

  • Tocopherols (Vitamin E)

  • Phytosterols

  • Flavonoids and polyphenols

  • Vitamin C (bound form in oil)

• Appearance: Deep orange to reddish oil

• Taste & odor: Strong fruity, slightly tart aroma

Key Features of Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil

• Rich in omega-7 – supports skin and mucous membrane health

• High antioxidant content – protects against oxidative stress

• Wound-healing potential – promotes tissue regeneration

• UV-protective properties – shields skin from photoaging

• Nutrient-dense – combines fatty acids with vitamins and carotenoids

Applications of Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil

1. Nutraceuticals & Dietary Supplements

   • Softgel capsules for skin and immune health

   • Functional blends with omega-3 and omega-6

   • Used in digestive health formulations

2. Cosmetics & Skincare

   • Anti-aging creams, serums, and lotions

   • Sun-protection and after-sun care products

   • Wound-healing ointments and lip balms

   • Haircare products for scalp nourishment

3. Pharmaceuticals

   • Adjunct in treating skin burns, wounds, and ulcers

   • Supportive therapy for mucosal health (oral, gastric, vaginal)

   • Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant applications

4. Food Applications

   • Nutrient-rich edible oil (small-scale use)

   • Added to functional foods and beverages

Technical Specifications of Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil

• Appearance: Deep orange to red oil

• Peroxide value: < 10 meq/kg

• Acid value: < 5 mg KOH/g

• Saponification value: 180–195 mg KOH/g

• Iodine value: 70–100 g I₂/100g

• Storage: Store in dark, cool, airtight containers to prevent oxidation

Advantages and Limitations

Advantages:

• Unique source of omega-7 fatty acid

• Strong antioxidant and anti-aging properties

• Multi-functional across food, cosmetic, and pharma industries

• Supports clean-label and natural product positioning

Limitations:

• Strong color and odor may limit formulation flexibility

• Relatively high cost compared to common vegetable oils

• Requires careful storage due to oxidation sensitivity

Why Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil Stands Out?

Unlike most oils, sea buckthorn fruit oil is naturally rich in omega-7, a rare fatty acid essential for skin and mucosal health. Combined with carotenoids, vitamin E, and phytosterols, it offers synergistic nutritional and therapeutic benefits, making it highly valuable in premium supplements, advanced skincare, and natural medicine.

FAQs About Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil

Q1: What makes sea buckthorn fruit oil unique?
Its high omega-7 content and rich carotenoid profile set it apart from other plant oils.

Q2: Is sea buckthorn fruit oil safe for consumption?
Yes, food-grade oil is used in dietary supplements, but dosage should follow regulatory guidelines.

Q3: Can it be used directly on skin?
Yes, but usually diluted with carrier oils due to its strong pigmentation and potency.

Q4: How is it different from sea buckthorn seed oil?
Fruit oil is rich in omega-7 and carotenoids, while seed oil is higher in omega-3 and omega-6. Both are used for different purposes.