Seabuckthorn (Hippophae L., Elaeagnaceae) is a hardy, deciduous, dioecious, and usually spinescent shrub. It reaches 2–4 m in height in natural habitats. The natural habitat of sea buckthorn extends widely in China, Mongolia, Russia, and most parts of Northern Europe. In Nepal, two species of Hippophae i.e. H. Salicifolia and H. tibetana area found. H. salicifolia is distributed from 1800-3600 msl and H. tibetana from 3600-4200 msl. Seabuckthorn is recorded in mountain-areas like Manang, Mustang, Humla, Jumla, Darchula, Dolpa, Rasuwa, and Baglung districts with altitudes ranging from 2000m to 4500m.

Berry of seabuckthorn is highly nutritious, containing vitamins C, E, beta-carotene and omega-3 fatty acids. Its berries produce nutrient rich juice and oil, and the leaves can be used for tea and traditional herbal remedies. Seabuckthorn plants are also known for their vigorous root growth, helping to mitigate problems of land degradation, desertification and soil erosion.

External Links

• Seabuckthorn : A potential Resource for Biodiversity conservation in Nepal Himalayas(pdf). International Workshop on Underutilized Plant Species. 06 to 08 May 2003, Leipzig, Germany
• International Seabuckthorn Association