# Seabuckthorn Seed Oil (Hippophae rhamnoides)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/seabuckthorn-seed-oil
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-04
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Seed Oils
**Also Known As:** Sea buckthorn seed oil, Hippophae rhamnoides seed oil, Sandthorn seed oil, Seaberry seed oil, Sallow thorn seed oil, Himalayan sea buckthorn oil, Tibetan sea buckthorn seed oil, 沙棘籽油 (Chinese), Argousier seed oil (French)

## Overview

Seabuckthorn seed oil is extracted from the seeds of Hippophae rhamnoides and is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, along with tocopherols and phytosterols. Its primary mechanisms involve modulating platelet aggregation and lipid [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) through incorporation of polyunsaturated fatty acids into cell membrane phospholipids.

## Health Benefits

• [Cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) support: Small RCT (n=11) showed reduced platelet aggregation with berry oil supplementation (Evidence: Preliminary RCT)
• Lipid [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management): Dose-dependent increases in serum palmitoleic acids observed in crossover trial (n=13), though no significant changes in glucose or lipids (Evidence: Small RCT)
• Wound healing: Rat studies showed significant wound contraction and increased hydroxyproline with topical/oral administration versus standard treatment (Evidence: Preclinical only)
• Skin cell regulation: In vitro studies demonstrate pro-proliferative effects on keratinocytes at low dilutions while inhibiting dysplastic cell migration (Evidence: In vitro only)
• Traditional inflammation support: Used for over 1000 years in TCM and Tibetan medicine, though human RCTs for [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects not provided (Evidence: Traditional use)

## Mechanism of Action

Seabuckthorn seed oil's linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) compete with arachidonic acid for cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes, thereby reducing thromboxane A2 synthesis and platelet aggregation. Supplementation raises serum palmitoleic acid (C16:1n-7) levels in a dose-dependent manner, which may improve [insulin sensitivity](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) by modulating PPAR-alpha and PPAR-gamma receptor activity. Phytosterols such as beta-sitosterol in the oil competitively inhibit intestinal cholesterol absorption via NPC1L1 transporter displacement.

## Clinical Summary

A small randomized controlled trial (n=11) demonstrated that seabuckthorn berry oil supplementation significantly reduced platelet aggregation, suggesting [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) benefit, though seed oil specifically was not isolated in that study. A crossover trial (n=13) found dose-dependent increases in serum palmitoleic acid following seed oil supplementation, but no statistically significant changes in fasting glucose, total cholesterol, LDL, or triglycerides were observed. The overall clinical evidence base is preliminary, with studies limited by very small sample sizes, short durations, and heterogeneous preparations mixing seed and berry pulp oils. Larger, well-controlled trials are needed before definitive efficacy claims can be supported.

## Nutritional Profile

Seabuckthorn seed oil is composed primarily of fatty acids (~90-95% of total composition) with a distinctive profile: oleic acid (omega-9, ~15-24%), linoleic acid (omega-6, ~32-40%), alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3, ~25-35%), and palmitic acid (~5-9%). Notably lower in palmitoleic acid (omega-7, ~1-3%) compared to seabuckthorn pulp/berry oil, which is a key distinguishing feature. Contains tocopherols (vitamin E complex) at approximately 100-200 mg/100g, primarily gamma- and alpha-tocopherol isoforms with [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Phytosterols present at ~400-600 mg/100g, predominantly beta-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol, which contribute to cholesterol-modulating potential. Carotenoids are present but at substantially lower concentrations than pulp oil (~10-40 mg/100g vs. ~300+ mg/100g in pulp oil). Contains trace phospholipids including phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. Polyphenolic compounds including isorhamnetin and quercetin derivatives are present at low concentrations. No meaningful protein, carbohydrate, or dietary fiber content as an extracted seed oil. Bioavailability note: omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are in triglyceride form, offering moderate bioavailability; co-ingestion with food enhances absorption. The high polyunsaturated fatty acid content (~60-70% PUFAs) makes it susceptible to oxidation; bioavailability may be compromised in poorly stored or oxidized preparations.

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically studied doses: Seed oil capsules 380-1520 mg/day of palmitoleic acid content (divided doses, morning/evening); Berry oil 5 g/day for 4 weeks. No standardization details provided beyond palmitoleic acid content. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Seabuckthorn seed oil is generally well tolerated at typical supplemental doses of 1–5 grams per day, with no serious adverse events reported in small clinical trials. Due to its antiplatelet properties mediated by altered thromboxane A2 production, caution is warranted when combining it with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs such as warfarin, clopidogrel, or aspirin, as additive bleeding risk is plausible. Individuals with known allergies to Elaeagnaceae family plants should avoid use, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a physician before supplementing due to insufficient safety data in those populations. High-dose intake may theoretically cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as loose stools due to the high polyunsaturated fat content.

## Scientific Research

Human clinical evidence for seabuckthorn seed oil is limited to small RCTs, with the largest being a crossover trial (n=13) testing escalating doses of 380-1520 mg/day showing bioavailability but no metabolic changes (PMID not provided). Other small studies include an RCT on berry oil and platelet aggregation (n=11) and observational data on [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) markers, while wound healing evidence remains preclinical (PMID: 19425187).

## Historical & Cultural Context

Sea buckthorn has been used for over 1000 years in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Tibetan medicine for wound healing, burns, [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health), and [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation). Historical texts document its role in treating skin lesions, dyslipidemia, and as a general tonic in Asian medical systems, with seed oil or pulp applied topically or taken orally.

## Synergistic Combinations

Fish oil, Vitamin E, Coenzyme Q10, Evening primrose oil, Astaxanthin

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the difference between seabuckthorn seed oil and berry oil?

Seabuckthorn seed oil is cold-pressed from the seeds and is rich in omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid) and omega-6 (linoleic acid) fatty acids, giving it a pale yellow color. Berry pulp oil, by contrast, is extracted from the fruit flesh and is dominated by palmitoleic acid (omega-7) and carotenoids such as beta-carotene, producing its characteristic deep orange color. The two oils have distinct fatty acid profiles and are used for different therapeutic purposes.

### How much seabuckthorn seed oil should I take per day?

Clinical trials have used doses ranging from approximately 1 to 5 grams of seabuckthorn oil per day, with dose-dependent increases in serum palmitoleic acid observed at higher intakes in a crossover study of 13 participants. No standardized therapeutic dose has been established due to the limited size of existing trials. Most commercial supplements recommend 1–3 grams daily with food to improve absorption of fat-soluble bioactives.

### Does seabuckthorn seed oil lower cholesterol?

Current clinical evidence does not support a significant cholesterol-lowering effect from seabuckthorn seed oil. A crossover trial (n=13) found no statistically significant changes in total cholesterol, LDL, or triglycerides after supplementation, despite dose-dependent shifts in fatty acid profiles. The phytosterol content theoretically could modestly inhibit cholesterol absorption via NPC1L1, but this has not been confirmed in adequately powered human trials.

### Can seabuckthorn seed oil reduce blood clotting?

Preliminary evidence from a small RCT (n=11) suggests that seabuckthorn oil may reduce platelet aggregation, likely by shifting arachidonic acid metabolism away from pro-aggregatory thromboxane A2 synthesis through competitive inhibition of cyclooxygenase. This antiplatelet effect is consistent with the known pharmacology of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids found in the oil. However, the evidence is insufficient to recommend it as a therapeutic anticoagulant, and individuals on blood-thinning medications should use it cautiously.

### Is seabuckthorn seed oil safe to take during pregnancy?

There are no adequate well-controlled studies evaluating seabuckthorn seed oil safety in pregnant or breastfeeding women, making it impossible to establish a definitive safety profile for these populations. The oil's antiplatelet properties represent a theoretical concern during labor and delivery due to potential increased bleeding risk. Pregnant individuals should consult a qualified healthcare provider before using seabuckthorn seed oil as a supplement.

### Does seabuckthorn seed oil interact with blood thinners or antiplatelet medications?

Seabuckthorn seed oil may have mild antiplatelet effects based on preliminary research showing reduced platelet aggregation, which could potentially increase bleeding risk when combined with medications like warfarin or aspirin. Anyone taking blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs should consult their healthcare provider before adding seabuckthorn seed oil supplementation. Clinical evidence in this specific interaction is limited, so medical supervision is recommended.

### What is the most bioavailable form of seabuckthorn seed oil for supplement use?

Seabuckthorn seed oil supplements typically come as liquid oil or softgel capsules, with the lipid-soluble form enhancing absorption of fat-soluble compounds like palmitoleic acid. Consuming seed oil with dietary fat improves bioavailability of its active constituents. Most clinical studies have used standardized oil extracts, though specific bioavailability comparisons between different formulations are limited in published research.

### Who should consider seabuckthorn seed oil supplementation, and who should avoid it?

Individuals seeking cardiovascular or lipid metabolism support may benefit from seabuckthorn seed oil, particularly those interested in palmitoleic acid intake. People with bleeding disorders, those scheduled for surgery, or individuals on anticoagulant medications should avoid supplementation without medical guidance due to potential antiplatelet effects. Pregnant women should also avoid use based on current safety data, and anyone with seabuckthorn allergies should not use this product.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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