Buckthorn berries – little orange drops of winter sun!
Anyone who lives at the coast will know what buckthorn is. Sometimes also known as sea buckthorn, the shrub Hippophae rhamnoides – that is its official Latin name – naturally occurs on sandy and salty soils in central Asia and along the coastlines of northern and western Europe. It grows best on open sites in full sun and at the end of the summer produces large bunches of bright orange berries. These berries are super-healthy and good for both your eyes and skin.
Vitamin bombs
Buckthorn berries have been used for centuries in traditional Tibetan and Chinese medicine. Nowadays, more and more people in the West are also recognising the value of these juicy orange berries, which absorb every ray of summer sun, allowing them to produce large quantities of beneficial phytonutrients. The juice contains exceptionally high concentrations of vitamins C, E and K, as well as carotenoids, flavonoids and phytosterols. The flesh and the seeds are also rich in essential omega-3, 6, 7 and 9 fatty acids. Biotona Seabuckthorn juice is a healthy, refreshing and slightly sour drink made from organically cultivated buckthorn berries, with no additives.
The health benefits of Biotona Seabuckthorn juice:
- Supports the immune system
- Combats tiredness
- Provides protection against eye disorders
- Is good for the skin
- Helps to manage cholesterol levels
The right daily dose of buckthorn
During the winter, it is a good idea to take a daily dose of one tablespoon. During periods of particular tiredness or stress, it can be beneficial to take two tablespoons a day over a three-month period. Biotona Seabuckthorn juice has a refreshing but slightly sour taste and gives a delicious twist to other juices (such as tomato juice!) and smoothies. You can also mix it with mineral water or add a spoonful to your pot of yoghurt.
Fabulous in the kitchen
Because of its unique flavour, buckthorn juice is much valued for its various uses in the kitchen. In particular, it can add a fresh and delicious ‘kick’ to a wide range of sauces, vinaigrettes and cakes. Buckthorn juice also combines really well as a sour component with shrimps. So what are you waiting for?!
Click here for more recipes, including carrot cake with seabuckthorn juice.