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Sea Buckthorn: ‘The Most Perfect Plant in the Whole World’

What is sea buckthorn? 

Since the formation of the Himalayas, sea buckthorn has withstood the harsh weather conditions of the Tibetan highlands. This resilient plant yields exceptionally nutritious bright orange berries on its thorny branches. Renowned for containing over 190 bioactive nutrients crucial for health, sea buckthorn has received the accolade of the “Most Perfect Plant in the Whole World.” 

The botanical name, Hippophae rhamnoides, means “The Shiny Horse.” According to ancient legend, debilitated war horses were released into sea buckthorn forests to roam freely. They were remarkably robust and healthy when they returned with glossy, radiant coats. According to Mongol tradition, Genghis Khan attributed his armies’ remarkable strength, endurance and conquests to sea buckthorn. 

What makes sea buckthorn so good?

Plant oils usually have a complex network of nutrients. Sea buckthorn oil is considered outstanding in this regard. It contains omegas 3, 7, 6 & 9, natural vitamin E and a vast array of other nutrients. In fact, it’s an antioxidant powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It has a unique nutritional composition of phytonutrients and potent antioxidants. It includes SOD (Superoxide Dismutase), Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, along with carotenoids, tocopherols, phytosterols, phospholipids, anti-inflammatory compounds such as ellagic acid, folic acid, ferulic acid, tannins, flavonoids including quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, and more. 

One notable feature of sea buckthorn is its high content of Omega 7. Omega 7 is a less widely recognised fatty acid renowned for its health, wellness, and cosmetic applications. It has shown promise for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels. It can help smooth artery passages and help keep artery walls strong. In addition, Omega 7 has the potential to support cellular health, provide moisture, and soothe the digestive system. It has also gained popularity as a key ingredient in beauty, skincare and anti-ageing products. Despite being present in certain fish and nuts, sea buckthorn berries stand out as a richer source of Omega 7. 

Balance the omegas

Omega-3 and omega-6 are essential fatty acids, meaning your body needs them but cannot make them naturally. However, a balanced intake between the two is considered essential. The consumption of vegetable oils high in omega-6 has increased dramatically in the past 100 years. Research indicates a high intake of omega-6 relative to omega-3 may cause issues, particularly for heart health and several chronic diseases. 

A pre-industrial diet typically maintained an omega-6 to omega-3 ratio ranging from approximately 4:1 to 1:4. By contrast, a typical Western diet today has been estimated to average a ratio of 16:1 and can go much higher. Sea buckthorn, however, maintains a naturally balanced omega 3:6 ratio, approximating a ratio of 1:1. This makes it a healthy choice to help redress these imbalances. 

Oily fish such as salmon, herring, mackerel, and sardines, fish oil and flaxseed oil, flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds are all excellent sources of omega-3. And, of course, so is sea buckthorn. Processed seeds and nut oils are all sources of omega-6, and the increasing prevalence of these products in the diet is one of the reasons for the significant increase in the ratios. 

What health issues is sea buckthorn helpful for, and why

So, what are the particular benefits of this highly nutritious plant? As you might guess, with so many nutrients in one product, the issues it can assist are many and varied. 

Sea-buckthorn oil can contribute to enhanced blood circulation. It can also help promote skin oxygenation and facilitate the elimination of excess toxins from the body.  

Because it can help bring moisture into the cells, as well as being rich in unsaturated fat, antioxidants, phytosterols, carotenoids, and vitamins E and K, sea buckthorn is helpful as a beauty product. It can protect the skin’s integrity, promote its renewal and help dehydrated skin as well as wrinkles and fine lines. Its impact is further realised within the skin, where gamma-linolenic acid is converted to prostaglandins. This offers protection against infections, allergy prevention, inflammation reduction, and inhibition of the ageing process. It may also help repair damaged hair and restore its elasticity and smoothness. Maybe the legend of the ‘shiny horses’ isn’t such a legend after all!  

Mucous membranes play a pivotal role in moisture regulation. However, they are susceptible to oxidative stress from free radicals, leading to inflammation and dryness. Sea buckthorn’s diverse nutrients are essential for the upkeep of the mucous membrane cells. These cells line sensitive areas of the body, such as the eyes, digestive system, and genital regions. For this reason, sea buckthorn can be helpful for conditions like dry eyes, dry mouth and intimate dryness around menopause.

Sea buckthorn provides potential support for cardiovascular health and diabetes

Sea buckthorn oil has the potential to support cardiovascular health by mitigating blood pressure, enhancing cholesterol profiles, and offering protection against the formation of blood clots. It also exhibits the potential to enhance insulin secretion, which in turn helps to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels, factors that may contribute to protection against the onset of type 2 diabetes. 

The high flavonoid and antioxidant content may help the immune system, while healthy fats, vitamin E, and carotenoids may protect liver cells from damage. 

Sea buckthorn offers some possible anticancer effects due to its bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and antioxidants. Notably, sea buckthorn is particularly abundant in quercetin, a flavonoid that research has demonstrated properties conducive to inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. 

Conclusion

Sea buckthorn, often considered “The Most Perfect Plant in the Whole World”, provides over 190 bioactive nutrients significant for health and beauty. Its wide array of beneficial properties, including antioxidant and antibacterial, demonstrate its importance for natural health and potentially valuable impact on cardiovascular health, immune support, skin quality, and overall well-being. Sea Buckthorn’s unique omega-rich composition distinguishes it as a powerful botanical resource.

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The Benefits of Liposomal Delivery of Supplements

The benefits of liposomal delivery have been known since they were first discovered and developed in the 1960s. However, it wasn’t until many years later that these benefits became cost-effective for supplements.

In essence, the liposomal delivery of a supplement encapsulates the nutrient in tiny fatty sacs called liposomes. These liposomes act as protective carriers, shielding the ingredients within them from deterioration in the digestive system.

Delivering maximum absorption and unrivalled bioavailability, liposomal technology represents a sophisticated, safe, and natural supplementation method.

Here, we will share some fascinating facts about the benefits of liposomal delivery for supplements, covering what they are and how they work. We will also share how to ensure you choose the best liposomal formulas to enhance your health.

 

What Are Liposomal Delivery Supplements?

The science behind liposomes is genuinely fascinating. They are part of a broader family of lipid-based delivery systems.  These include simple oil-in-water emulsions, such as those commonly found in skincare products. However, liposome structure is unique, which is the key to their success. Instead of using a surfactant (a molecule that has a dual nature, enabling it to interact with both water and oil, for example, lecithin) to merely stabilise a drop of oil-water, a liposome is composed of an extraordinary arrangement of phospholipids, or healthy fats.

Phospholipids are unique in that they have a water-loving phosphate ‘head’ and two fat-loving ‘tails’ made from a fatty acid. These arrange themselves into bi-layer structures to form a spherical membrane, remarkably similar to a human cell. It acts as a protective pocket around the active ingredient – the desired vitamin, mineral or supplement – at its core. The liposome’s unique properties mean it can be modified to hold either fat-soluble or water-soluble molecules. Then, the liposome encapsulates these molecules, forming an impenetrable bubble during its journey towards the targeted cells. This protects the ingredients from the harsh environment of the digestive tract.

The liposomes’ striking resemblance to the body’s cell membranes is known as their ‘molecular mimicry’. This mimicry enables them to deposit their precious contents directly into the destination cells by physically merging with them. This degree of absolute absorption ensures that all of the desired vitamins, minerals or nutrients can reach the bloodstream effectively and, crucially, remain in the blood for longer. They are small enough to bypass ‘first-pass’ metabolism, which takes place in the liver.

Liposomes Deliver Superior Bioavailability

Liposomal delivery supplements offer superior bioavailability, meaning the body uses the ingredients much more efficiently. Liposomal liquid formulas can be easier to take and more pleasant than tablet or capsule counterparts. They are an ideal, gentle option for those with digestive difficulties or swallowing problems. They can also be more cost-effective for consumers thanks to their high potency. The protection afforded to the core nutrient by the liposome prevents the supplement from losing its strength along the way. This allows for smaller doses that nonetheless deliver potent results – with no reported side effects.

Some supplements that benefit from liposomal delivery

Liposomal Vitamin C formulas, for example, can rapidly raise blood concentrations and reach cells faster than over-the-counter tablets using their expedited delivery system. Vitamin C taken at high doses has been linked to countless health benefits, potentially supporting immune function, brain health, blood sugar health, and heart health.

Because liposomes can be adapted to hold different types of molecules, they can deliver various nutrients to support the body in many ways. They are popular with eye nutrients as they help with the absorption of carotenoids and help quickly deliver them to the eye area where needed. Liposomal delivery supplements are also beneficial for hard-to-absorb nutrients, such as curcumin.

The ever-expanding world of liposomal technology presents exciting possibilities. It allows vital nutrients to improve the efficiency of an array of bodily processes. It offers consumers choice, convenience, flexible dosing, and an enjoyable new way to meet their nutritional needs.

Conclusion

In summary, liposomal delivery supplements emerge as an outstanding choice for those seeking to maximise the efficacy of their nutritional intake.

The advanced technology behind liposomal delivery enhances the absorption of essential nutrients, ensuring they reach their intended destination within the body with greater efficiency. You can achieve the benefits of liposomal delivery, whether you’re aiming to fortify your immune system, support overall health, or target specific wellness goals, with this reliable and innovative solution.

With the promise of increased bioavailability and better results, it’s clear that liposomal supplements represent a wise investment in your long-term well-being. Make the smart choice and experience the difference liposomal delivery can bring to your health and vitality.

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The Importance of Vitamin D – What You Need to Know

The importance of Vitamin D in maintaining overall health and well-being cannot be overstated.

In recent years, Vitamin D has been regularly hitting the headlines. Its potential benefits for respiratory and immune health are increasingly widely recognised. As a result, there has been an increase in the number of people supplementing with Vitamin D. A survey by the British Nutrition Foundation revealed that 26% of adults in the UK now take vitamin D supplements all year round. A further 8% report they take vitamin D supplements for most of the year.

Despite this, it is еѕtіmаtеd thаt 1 in 5 реорlе іn thе UK still hаvе lоw Vіtаmіn D levels. Fоr this rеаѕоn, іt’ѕ often rесоmmеndеd tо support уоur optimal іntаkе with a daily D3 supplement. Supplementing can rеduсе thе risk оf D3 deficiency and the potential impact this can have on your health.

Why we should ensure optimal levels of Vitamin D all your round

Vitamin D3 is known as the “sunshine vitamin.” It is an essential fat-soluble nutrient critical for many bodily processes. Studies show that Vitamin D3 can improve your body’s calcium absorption to support bone mineralisation. It also benefits the normal growth and development of bones and teeth, making it an important prenatal vitamin. Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy can lead to problems for both mother and baby. In other words, it begins performing its vital role while we are still in the womb!

The importance of Vitamin D is that it is needed to support us throughout our lives. In childhood, it helps prevent bone diseases such as rickets. It aids growth and development through adolescence and into adulthood. It also helps our immune system to function properly. Research ѕhоwѕ thаt tаkіng Vitamin D3 can benefit muѕсulоѕkеlеtаl and rеѕріrаtоrу health, along with autoimmune dіѕеаѕеѕ. As we age, it helps to guard against bone loss and prevent conditions such as osteoporosis.

Understanding the two forms of Vitamin D and sources

There are two forms of Vitamin D. Vitamin D2 comes from plant sources, mainly mushrooms and fortified foods. Vitamin D3 predominantly comes from animal bаѕеd ѕоurсеѕ such аѕ fаttу fіѕh, ѕеаfооd, and egg yolks. The body can convert D2 into D3, the usable form that our bodies actually need. Exposure to sunlight enables our skin to naturally produce the form of Vitamin D known as Vitamin D3.

There are vegan sources of D3. Notably, lichen, a composite organism that exists in a symbiotic relationship between an algae and a fungus, is a wonderfully rich source of D3. Whilst you won’t find lichen on supermarket shelves, it does make an excellent vegan D3 supplement.

Understandably, getting all of the D3 we need from sun exposure alone can be challenging in colder, darker climates. Even when the sun is shining, we may struggle to produce the amount of D3 we require for optimal health. Lifestyle factors such as covering up the skin with clothing for religious, practical or cultural reasons or spending long hours working, studying or training indoors can hinder our body’s ability to absorb UVB rays from the sun. For this reason, it can be important to supplement Vitamin D3 all year round, not just in winter.

Symptoms of Vitamin D3 deficiency

A Vitamin D3 deficiency can be difficult to pinpoint if not diagnosed by a blood test, as symptoms may be similar to those of other deficiencies or conditions. Symptoms typically include aching, weakened bones, muscle weakness, and feelings of fatigue and depression. A deficiency can also manifest as an increased susceptibility to coughs, colds, and gut problems.

Why Vitamin D is known as a Mood-Booster

Have you ever noticed how much happier and more positive everyone seems to be when the weather is nice? Vitamin D has a profound effect on our mood and well-being. During the winter, we can often experience mood changes, which can be quite pronounced and even progress into depression and ѕеаѕоnаl аffесtіvе dіѕоrdеr (SAD), as a direct result of not receiving еnоugh sunlight, and therefore D3, оn a daily bаѕіѕ. It is also emerging that Vitamin D can help contribute towards more restful sleep and a more relaxed emotional state. The importance of Vitamin D includes its benefits for mental as well as physical health.

Are Vitamin D3 Pills The Only Option?

When choosing a Vitamin D3 supplement that fits your lifestyle and daily routine, the great news is that various supplement formats are available. Whether you opt for tablets, capsules or a sublingual spray, each method has its advantages and will allow you to support your daily D3 intake. You can also enrich your diet and lifestyle with the natural sources of vitamin D we have explored (eating delicious D3-rich foods, if your dietary requirements allow, and enjoying time in the sunshine if you can) to enhance your overall well-being and optimise those Vitamin D levels!

In summary

Vitamin D3 contributes to:

  • Absorption аnd utilisation оf calcium аnd рhоѕрhоruѕ
  • Nоrmаl blооd саlсіum lеvеlѕ
  • Mаіntеnаnсе of bоnеѕ and teeth
  • Mаіntеnаnсе of normal muѕсlе function
  • The normal functioning of thе immune ѕуѕtеm
  • Mental, emotional and sleep health

 

When you focus on optimising your vitamin D levels, you can feel much better, be more positive, and have a more robust immune system.

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