In the world of botanical supplements, seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a well-recognized superplant valued for both its leaves and berries. While most people are familiar with seabuckthorn berry oil, seabuckthorn leaf extract powder has quietly emerged as a potent and sustainable ingredient in the natural health industry. But how do the two compare nutritionally?
As a professional manufacturer of plant-based extracts, Wellgreen takes a deep dive into the nutritional profiles, active compounds, and applications of seabuckthorn leaf vs. berry extracts - helping formulators and brands make informed choices backed by science.
Nutritional Composition: Leaf vs. Berry
1. Polyphenols and Flavonoids
Seabuckthorn leaf extract is rich in flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids, which contribute to its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. According to a study published in Food Chemistry (2011), seabuckthorn leaves contain higher total polyphenols than the berries - with concentrations ranging from 60–80 mg GAE/g DW in leaves vs. 15–25 mg GAE/g DW in berries [1].
These polyphenols contribute to cellular protection, cardiovascular support, and immune modulation.
2. Omega Fatty Acids
The berries, especially the seeds and pulp, are known for their omega 3, 6, 7, and 9 fatty acids, especially palmitoleic acid (Omega-7), which supports skin and mucosal health.
In contrast, the leaves contain minimal fat, making them ideal for low-lipid nutritional formulations.
3. Protein and Amino Acids
The leaves contain more protein than berries. Research from the Journal of Medicinal Plants Research shows seabuckthorn leaves provide up to 17% protein content, making them suitable for plant-based nutritional supplements [2].
Additionally, leaves offer a broad spectrum of essential amino acids, valuable for recovery and energy metabolism.
4. Vitamins and Minerals
Berries are higher in vitamin C, E, and carotenoids like beta-carotene, which makes them effective in skincare and antioxidant blends.
Leaves, on the other hand, offer a better balance of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium, essential for bone health and metabolic function.
Applications and Benefits
| Extract Type | Key Benefits | Ideal Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf Extract | Antioxidant, adaptogenic, mineral-rich | Capsules, teas, immunity blends |
| Berry Extract | Skin health, lipid support, vitamin boost | Oils, skincare, functional foods |
Sustainability and Processing Advantage
Seabuckthorn leaves are more sustainable to harvest, often as a byproduct of pruning. Using leaf extract powder contributes to low-waste processing and supports environmentally conscious sourcing - a value that Wellgreen actively promotes in our production practices.
At Wellgreen, we produce high-quality seabuckthorn leaf extract powder using gentle water or ethanol-based extraction. This ensures maximum preservation of active compounds without the use of synthetic solvents, aligning with global clean-label trends.
Why Choose Wellgreen's Seabuckthorn Leaf Extract Powder?
✅ 100% natural, standardized botanical extract
✅ Manufactured in GMP- and ISO-certified facilities
✅ Customizable extract ratios and specs (e.g., 10:1, flavonoids ≥20%)
✅ Trusted by formulators in nutraceuticals, functional teas, and dietary supplements
Our seabuckthorn leaf extract powder is globally exported, with proven stability, efficacy, and purity. Whether you're developing an antioxidant supplement, an adaptogenic blend, or a functional tea, Wellgreen is your reliable partner for botanical innovation.
Final Thoughts
Both seabuckthorn leaf and berry extracts offer unique nutritional profiles. For those seeking a low-fat, polyphenol-rich, mineral-dense ingredient, seabuckthorn leaf extract powder is a smart, functional choice. Backed by traditional use and modern science, it continues to gain momentum in health product development.
Interested in sourcing premium seabuckthorn leaf extract powder for your brand?
Contact Wellgreen today for samples, COAs, or customized formulations.
📩 liu@wellgreenxa.com
References
[1] Ercisli, S., et al. (2011). "Determination of antioxidant activity and phenolic content of seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) leaf extracts." Food Chemistry, 127(4), 1600–1604. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2011.07.022
[2] Mandal, S., et al. (2011). "Nutritional composition of seabuckthorn leaves and its potential as a herbal tea." Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 5(26), 6143–6149.
