Have you ever thought why Sea Buckthorn is one of the most special things in Chinese medical traditions? This active, bright orange berry is known as the "Holy Fruit" because it has amazing health benefits, and it plays a vital role in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In fact, it has been extensively used and accepted as a remedy for the general skin beautification, immune system strengthening, and skin wounds healing processes, for more than 4,5 decades.
Most of the SBT plant is grown in the north and the west of China, where it lives in tough, arid regions and, thus, can be used to stabilise the soil. But what’s making it a holy fruit, and what was its importance in the Changez dynasty? Let’s explore in detail to find out the hidden facts.
What Is Sea Buckthorn?
Sea Buckthorn is a bright orange, petite berry that grows on cold-hardy shrubs and high-altitude areas, such as the Himalayas. The fruit is a nutrient powerhouse; it is loaded with vitamins such as Vitamin C, E, and A, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants, which in turn increase its worth in the health field. Over time, people have been using Sea Buckthorn to maintain the skin and strengthen the immune system.
Comparatively, the taste of sea buckthorn is very sour, almost like a citrus, and it is termed a "superfruit" simply because it has rare omega fatty acids and contains more Vitamin C than an orange. This strong plant not only enables people to live healthier lives but also contributes to the planet by supporting other plants and making the soil richer in nitrogen.
Why Is Sea Buckthorn Known As Holy Fruit In China?
Sea buckthorn, which is called ”holy fruit" in Tibet, has been documented in Tibetan and Chinese medicinal texts going back several centuries. The area the plant was used among other things for coughing, digestive problems, skin issues, wounds and burns, and even depression. In the Himalayan and China region, where sea buckthorn is found, Tibet, Qinghai, Gansu, Ningxia, and Inner Mongolia.
1. A Gift From Nature
In China and the Himalayan region, sea buckthorn is referred to as the "God Sent Medicine" or "Life Oil.” The native people take pride in sea buckthorn for its high healing and nutritional properties.
2. Packed With Good Nutrition
This bright orange berry is full of nutrition, including omega fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and other antioxidants. This generally grows in high, rugged mountain regions, making it powerful and unique.
3. Food And Medicine
The Chinese have used sea buckthorn not just as food but also as medicine for generations, promoting digestion, warm blood flow, and improving lung condition from natural medicine packs.
4. Nature's Survivor
Sea buckthorn can grow in some of the environment's most inhospitable places, including rocky, dry, high areas. They give sea buckthorn the title of survivor or holy fruit; it can also grow in places to prevent soil erosion from desertification.
5. Historically Approved
Ancient Tibetan doctors used sea buckthorn to help with circulation or lung conditions. Modern athletes or cosmonauts also use sea buckthorn to stay fit and energised.
6. A Symbol Of Life
In addition to the practical benefits of sea buckthorn, it is a symbol of vitality, life span, and strength, and is often referred to as "Liquid Gold" because it is a precious commodity.
What is Sea Buckthorn Called in China?
Sea buckthorn’s scientific name, Hippophae rhamnoides, generally means "a tree that makes horses shiny," which indicates its use in the past to make the coats of horses better. Sea buckthorn Chinese name is called sha ji (1977), is a traditional Chinese medicine. It has been used for a very long time to treat coughs, infections, lung issues, and also to help digestion and blood circulation.
Historical Background Of Sea Buckthorn
Seabuckthorn has been one of the most traditional medicinal plants in China for more than a era and was first recorded in the Tang Dynasty as a remedy and a source of health. It was listed as a drug in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia in 1977 and has been the subject of various studies since its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects.
For example, Changez Khan, who was the Mongolian emperor in the 13th century, had faith in his three powers- strong discipline, a well-arranged army, and Sea Buckthorn. Whenever his horses were injured in battle, he used to apply a paste made from Sea Buckthorn berries and leaves that healed faster. Also, leaves were given to keep them energized during the war. Further, Changez Khan used to give sea buckthorn berry drinks to his soldiers on a regular basis to increase their strength and stamina.
Conclusion
Sea buckthorn berry or "Holy Fruit" of China is the source of life and natural healing power. The superfood, which is full of vitamins, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants, is an absolute delight to the skin, immunity, and overall health of the body.
Sea Buckthorn is one of the most precious elements in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and is a perfect representation of the connection between our body and nature. In addition to being the healthiest choice for us, it also makes the earth a better place - by nourishing the soil and mending the land, thus, it is really a gift of life from nature.
