The sea buckthorn berry offers a multitude of nutrients, and the benefits of fermented foods have long been understood. Seaberries can be consumed in different ways – as fresh juice or puree, smoothie, or fermented. Fermented sea buckthorn juice is perfect for those looking to boost the nutrients and taste of the fruit. Sea buckthorn is also available in oil form, which is excellent for many skin problems.
What is Sea Buckthorn?
The sea buckthorn is a deciduous shrub endemic to Asia and Europe. The plant has berries that can be bright orange, yellow, or red. The plant’s scientific name, Hippophae rhamnoïdes, means shining horse. This name derived from legends depicting how horses that consume these berries would return to their owners stronger and with a radiant appearance.
The sea buckthorn berry, whether fresh or fermented, is said to be excellent for immunity, and it’s one of the fruits with the highest amounts of vitamin C and Omega-7 fatty acids. It can also help lower bad cholesterol, regulate blood sugar, and improve skin health.
Benefits of Fermenting Sea Buckthorn
A study about fermenting sea buckthorn and how the process can optimize the fruit’s health benefits was published in January 2023. Researchers found that fermenting sea buckthorn tends to improve the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the juice.
In the study, the probiotic ratio of the fermented juice increased to check its protective effects. The results showed that the fermented sea buckthorn had increased antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which means the fermentation process produced organic acids and bacteriostatic proteins in the juice.
The research tested six probiotic strains using in-vitro analysis based on high SOD (superoxide dismutase) production capacity, high acid flavour profile, and high total flavonoid content. The researchers found that the results were consistent with previous research where fermented fruit juices all show increased antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
The data shows that after the experiment, the fermented sea buckthorn juice has increased bioactive content with bacteriostatic activity, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and organic acids. In addition, the liquid is said to have protected cells against lipid peroxidation and alleviated oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
The study’s authors said it is a cost-effective solution for making sea buckthorn more palatable and improving its nutritional value. Fermentation tempers the sourness of the berries and simplifies the complex organic compounds. And since sea buckthorn can potentially treat and prevent certain diseases, improving its flavour profile will make it easy to consume. Fermenting is particularly helpful for increasing the consumption of sea buckthorn berries among children.
Take Advantage of Sea Buckthorn’s Benefits
While there are various ways to consume sea buckthorn, fermentation is an excellent option for people who can’t stand very sour juices. And you can enjoy a more palatable version of this miracle berry without missing out on its nutritional value.
Fermented Sea Buckthorn Juice Recipe
Equipment
- 1 1-litre glass jar or fermentation vessel with an airlock or a breathable lid (e.g., a cloth or coffee filter secured with a rubber band)
- 1 Clean glass or plastic stirring utensil
Ingredients
- 1000 ml cold pressed sea buckthorn juice
- 1-2 tbsp sugar (cane sugar, honey, or fruit juice)
- 1 tsp sea salt (optional but helps regulate microbial growth)
- 1 tbsp starter culture (such as water kefir, whey, or a pre-made kombucha or juice ferment)
Instructions
- Prepare the Juice: Ensure your sea buckthorn juice is pure, with no preservatives, as these can hinder fermentation.
- Dissolve Sugar: In a small amount of warm water, dissolve the sugar. Let it cool, then add to the sea buckthorn juice, stirring well to combine. This will provide fuel for the fermenting microbes, balancing the juice’s tartness.
- Add the Starter Culture: Add your starter culture to the sweetened juice and stir well. If you don’t have a starter, fermentation may take longer, but it should still proceed.
- Salt (Optional): Add salt if you prefer, stirring until dissolved. Salt can help control microbial growth, but it’s optional if you want a slightly milder-tasting ferment.
- Fermentation Setup: Pour the juice into the jar, leaving at least 1 inch of headspace to allow for expansion. Cover with an airlock or breathable lid to release gases while preventing contaminants from entering.
- Ferment: Place the jar in a cool, dark area at room temperature (18–22°C / 65–72°F) and allow it to ferment for 3–5 days. Taste the juice daily to monitor flavour and carbonation.
- Taste and Adjust: After 3–5 days, if it has reached your preferred tanginess, transfer it to the fridge to slow down fermentation. If the flavour is too strong, consider using it as a concentrate, diluting with water or other juice.
Notes
Nutrient Profile (per 2-tbsp serving, estimated)
Macronutrients
- Calories: ~10–15 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~2–3 g (primarily from natural sugars or any added sugar for fermentation)
- Protein: <1 g
- Fats: <1 g
Key Micronutrients
- Vitamin C: 20–40 mg
Sea buckthorn berries are rich in vitamin C, providing a potent immune boost. - Vitamin E: 0.5–1 mg
Acts as an antioxidant, supporting skin and cellular health. - Omega-7 Fatty Acids (Palmitoleic Acid): 5–10 mg
Additional Nutrients & Bioactive Compounds
- Flavonoids and Polyphenols: Known for their antioxidant effects, these compounds increase with fermentation, potentially helping to reduce oxidative stress.
- Organic Acids: Lactic acid and other organic acids formed during fermentation aid in digestion and support gut health.
- Probiotics: Depending on the starter culture used, the juice may contain beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus species, which promote gut health and immunity.
Health Benefits
- Antioxidant Support: Increased antioxidant capacity due to flavonoids and vitamin C.
- Improved Digestion: Thanks to probiotics and organic acids.
- Skin and Cell Health: Beneficial fatty acids and vitamin E contribute to skin vitality and cellular protection.
