Sea buckthorn (Hippophae Rhamnoides-L)-A potential Nutraceuticals and Pharmaceuticals Source- Nature’s Gift- to Ladakh

Typically when a plant grows under harsh environment develop therapeutic properties that help the human body to handle difficult condition on consuming it. In India mostly it is found in high altitude cold arid condition of Ladakh (Kargil and Leh) Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. All parts of the plants viz berries, leaves, stem, seeds or pulp oil contains many bio-active compounds. They are rich of natural anti-oxidants, such as ascorbic acid (vitamin–C), tocopherols, carotenoids, flavonoids, vitamins, fatty acids mainly unsaturated fatty acids and minerals (Ca, P, Fe, K etc). Animal and human studies suggest that sea buckthorn have wide range of beneficial effects such as anti-carcinogenic, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, cardio protective, anti-gastric ulcer, healing properties. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to highlight the importance of sea buckthorn as a source of nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals, so that it should be used as an alternative nutritional source in the commercial market, thereby much to contribute to the livelihood of high mountainous people by utilizing this kind of hidden treasure of Ladakh.