Smoothies
Sea Buckthorn Oil and Milk Thistle Oil in Smoothies
Sea Buckthorn Oil and Milk Thistle Oil are two nutrient-dense oils derived from plants with a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Eastern Europe and Asia. These oils are known for their unique and powerful health benefits, and while they are often found in small, expensive tincture bottles in the supplement aisles of organic grocers, they are also available in larger, more affordable bottles in delis and grocery stores that specialize in Eastern European foods.
Origins and Availability
- Sea Buckthorn Oil: This oil is extracted from the berries, seeds, and leaves of the sea buckthorn plant (Hippophae rhamnoides), which is native to Europe and Asia, particularly in the mountainous regions of the Caucasus, Russia, and China. Sea buckthorn berries are a staple in Eastern European diets and are used to produce various products, including the oil, which is rich in vitamins and fatty acids.
- Milk Thistle Oil: Derived from the seeds of the milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum), which is native to the Mediterranean region but also grows in Eastern Europe and parts of Asia. Milk thistle has been used for centuries in herbal medicine for liver health, and its oil is similarly prized for its silymarin content, a compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
In delis and grocery stores that focus on Eastern European food, these oils can often be found in larger bottles at a fraction of the price compared to the small tincture bottles sold in organic grocers. This makes them a more economical option for those looking to incorporate these healthful oils into their daily diet.
Nutritional Profiles
Sea Buckthorn Oil
- Vitamins: Extremely rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and several B vitamins. It also contains a variety of carotenoids, including beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A.
- Omega Fatty Acids: Uniquely contains all four omega fatty acids: omega-3, omega-6, omega-7, and omega-9. Omega-7 is particularly rare and known for its ability to support skin health and mucous membranes.
- Antioxidants: High in flavonoids and other antioxidants that protect cells from damage by free radicals.
- Minerals: Contains essential minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium.
Milk Thistle Oil
- Silymarin: The key active compound, silymarin, is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent known for supporting liver health.
- Omega Fatty Acids: Contains omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, which are important for heart health and maintaining skin integrity.
- Vitamin E: Rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Phytosterols: Contains plant-based compounds that can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
Incorporating a tablespoon of either sea buckthorn oil or milk thistle oil into a large smoothie batch (e.g. yielding five glasses that can be consumed over a few days) is an excellent way to enhance its nutritional profile without significantly altering the taste.
