Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed NotebookFR · EN

Sea Buckthorn

Hippophae rhamnoides
Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.
The highly acidic berries may irritate the stomach in case of excessive consumption or sensitive stomach. Sea buckthorn oil may interact with certain anticoagulant treatments; seek the advice of a healthcare professional if taking medication. Avoid prolonged internal use without professional advice in pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to insufficient data. Always dilute pure juice before consumption, due to its pronounced acidity.
Juice / syrup — Berries

Fresh berry juice

Fresh or frozen berries are pressed and the resulting juice is diluted with water or honey to soften its acidity. It is traditionally consumed as a winter tonic. 1 to 2 tablespoons of diluted juice in a glass of water, once a day.

Infused oil — Berries and seeds

Sea buckthorn oil for the skin

Oil obtained by pressing berries and seeds is applied directly to dry or irritated areas of the skin, in a thin layer. Professional advice is recommended before any internal use of this oil. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Decoction — Dried berries

Dried berry decoction

Dried berries are gently boiled in water for about ten minutes, then filtered. This preparation was traditionally drunk warm, alongside winter meals. One tablespoon of dried berries per cup of water, one to two cups per day.

Where to find it

Sourcing the plant

Wild sea buckthorn is found on coastal dunes and riverbanks in Europe, or cultivated in some gardens and orchards; its berries, juice, and oil are also available in herbalist shops and specialty stores.

Harvest season

When to harvest

Berries are traditionally harvested in autumn, after the first frosts which soften their acidity.

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