Sea Buckthorn

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News: Sea buckthorn has become an important source of employment and income for the people of Ladakh.

About Sea Buckthorn

Sea buckthorn
Source: Frontiers
Aspects Details 
About Sea Buckthorn is a vibrant orange berry that grows on thorny shrubs in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas.
Scientific name Its scientific name is Hippophae Rhamnoides.
Local Names 
  • In Ladakh, it is popularly known as the  “wonder berry”, real-life Himalayan “Sanjeevani booti”, ‘Ladakh Gold’, ‘Golden Bush’, or ‘Gold Mine’ of cold deserts.
  • In Himachal Pradesh, it is locally called Himalayan chharma.
Suitable conditions 
  • It thrives in the cold, arid climates of the Indian Himalayas.
  • These areas, with their pristine air and mineral-rich soil, provide the perfect conditions for the berry to develop its unique nutritional profile.
Producing RegionsIt particularly grows in regions like Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Properties 
  • It is known for its tangy, citrus-like flavour.
  • It is a powerhouse of nutrients.
Medicinal use
  • It is used as a medicine for treating stomach, heart, and skin problems.
  • It is rich in vitamins, carotenoids, and omega fatty acids.
  • It can also help in acclimatising to high-altitude.
Ecological role 
  • It is an important source of fuelwood and fodder.
  • It is a soil-binding plant that prevents soil erosion.
  • It also checks siltation in rivers and helps preserve floral biodiversity.
Commercial Benefits
  • It is used in making juices, jams, pickles, nutritional capsules among others.
  • It is also used in the manufacturing of cosmetics and anti-ageing products.
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