Review on Medicinal properties of Hippophae rhamnoides (Sea buckthorn)

Hippophae rhamnoides (sea buckthorn) is gaining significant attention as a potent natural source of antioxidants due to its complex phytochemical profile and exceptional nutritional value. While traditionally used to manage various ailments, modern research now validates its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective properties. These therapeutic effects stem from a synergistic combination of bioactive constituents—including flavonoids, phenolic acids, vitamins, and unsaturated fatty acids—found across different plant tissues, such as the berries, leaves, and seeds. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the antioxidant potential of H. rhamnoides, focusing on its phytochemical composition, underlying molecular mechanisms, and the supporting evidence from experimental and clinical studies. Furthermore, it addresses the plant's expanding role in functional foods and nutraceuticals, while highlighting the necessity for standardized formulations and more robust clinical trials to fully bridge the gap between experimental findings and therapeutic application.