Sea buckthorn, known as “holy fruit” in Tibet, is found in centuries-old medicinal texts in Tibet and China. It was used there to treat coughing, digestive problems, skin issues, wounds and burns, and even depression in some cases. Recently, science has come to discover its dense nutritional content of omega 3 6 7 9, vitamins, and antioxidants.
The genus name of Sea Buckthorn “Hippophae” originates from the Greek words “Hippo”, horse, and “Phaos”, to shine. It is due to the ancient Greek use of sea buckthorn as horse feed to make their skins to shine more. When Alexander the Great headed back from India after conquering Persia, he traveled with his troops through the desert regions now known as Pakistan and Iran. Short on food and water, the soldiers and horses were dying. They passed an area where Sea Buckthorn was growing. After feeding on the berries and leaves, the horses regained full vigor, reflected in their shiny coats.
