The Sea Berry Harvest Begins!

High in the Himalayan desert regions of India and Tibet, sea buckthorn, a thorny shrub dense with bright and bitter orange berries, grows wild like a weed. 


Scrappy and hard to harvest, sea buckthorn or sea berry is a superfruit and a game changer for beautiful, healthy skin. SIBU's Turkestanica sea berries grow exclusively in the Leh & Nubra valleys of northern India where they are harvested during a short 4-6 week period in the early fall. Turkestanica is the most nutrient dense of all sea buckthorn subspecies due to the harsh environment in which it grows. 


The harvest is a time for celebration in these remote villages of the Himalayan Highlands. SIBU hires co-ops of local village women who hand harvest the berries as it has been done for generations. Great pride is taken in the commitment SIBU has made to these villagers. Fair trade and sustainable practices provide income for many individuals and families throughout the region.


Sea buckthorn berries in burlap sack


Almost 90 percent of the world’s sea berry (sea buckthorn) forests are found in India and Tibet. High altitude, dry heat, severe cold, and hardscrabble soil combine to produce a fruit rich in over 190 bioactive compounds including antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E; fatty acids, flavonoids, and carotenoids; and skin-fortifying trace minerals such as selenium, zinc, copper, sulfur, potassium and magnesium. 


Sea berry is considered a miracle fruit because it yields the highest natural concentrations of omega 7s available and is rich in omega 3s and 6s. Unlike omegas 3 and 6, omega 7 (palmitoleic acid), a lesser known omega, is not an essential fatty acid and therefore our bodies do synthesize it. However, because of our modern-day diets we don’t get enough of the components to make omega 7 naturally. As we age, our production of omega 7 begins to decrease and the need for it in our bodies increases.


Sea buckthorn berry harvesters


Clinical studies have shown that omega 7, taken internally and applied topically, is an elixir for the skin: It soothes eczema and helps clear up acne; stimulates collagen production, keeps skin firm, aids in elasticity; strengthens hair and nails; and promotes tissue regeneration. 


It also benefits cardiovascular, liver, and brain function and improves the metabolism. SIBU's Omega-7 supplements provide an excellent Vegan source of the omega fatty acids, especially for those struggling with vegan collagen options. Whether you prefer an easy-to-swallow soft gel or a morning "shot" of Omega-7 Pure, the benefits of sea berry are certain to give you the boost you need for both whole body health and natural beauty.