askHELTIE HELTIEhorse® When to Use Sea Buckthorn for Horses

When to Use Sea Buckthorn for Horses

Sea buckthorn is a powerful natural ingredient that has become increasingly popular in the equine world in recent years. And for good reason: this plant is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids that can support the body on multiple levels. But when exactly is sea buckthorn beneficial for horses? And why is it preferable to use not only the berries, but also the bark and leaves? This text explains everything you need to know about this versatile herb.

Skin

Resistance

Sea buckthorn

23 December '25 • 2 min reading time

What is sea buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a shrub that grows in coastal regions and is known for its bright orange berries. While these berries are rich in nutrients, the bark and leaves also contain valuable bioactive compounds that can support horses. It is precisely this combination of plant parts that makes sea buckthorn so broadly applicable.

When is sea buckthorn useful for horses?

Immune support

Sea buckthorn is well known for its high levels of vitamin C, carotenoids, and antioxidants. These compounds support the immune system, especially during periods when extra resistance is needed, such as seasonal changes or recovery after illness.

Skin and coat support

The fatty acids found in the berries, including omega-7, play an important role in skin repair and coat condition. Sea buckthorn nourishes and soothes the skin from within, supporting a healthy skin barrier and a shiny coat.

Digestive support

The leaves and bark contain tannins and other compounds that help maintain intestinal balance. This makes sea buckthorn suitable for horses with sensitive digestion, inconsistent manure, or digestive responses to seasonal changes.

Recovery after exercise or stress

Due to its antioxidant properties, sea buckthorn helps neutralize free radicals, supporting faster muscle recovery. This makes it particularly interesting for sport horses, horses in rehabilitation, or horses prone to muscle tension.

For older horses

Senior horses can benefit from the vitamin and antioxidant boost provided by sea buckthorn, supporting vitality, immune function, and overall well-being.

Why use berries, bark, and leaves together?

Although sea buckthorn is often associated mainly with its powerful berries, the plant offers much more. Each plant part contains unique compounds that complement one another. When berries, leaves, and bark are used together, they create a broad and balanced effect. The berries mainly support skin health, immunity, and recovery, while the leaves and bark contribute to digestive support, internal balance, and calmness. This makes the combination especially suitable for horses that need support on multiple levels.

Conclusion

Sea buckthorn is a versatile and powerful herb that can be used in many situations, from immune and skin support to digestion and recovery. It is most effective when not only the berries are used, but also the bark and leaves. This way, your horse benefits from the full strength of the sea buckthorn plant and receives broad, natural support.

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Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a striking shrub with bright orange berries that naturally occurs in Europe and Asia. In the equine world, sea buckthorn is increasingly used as a natural source of power, not only because of the berries but also the leaves and bark. Each part of the plant contains unique substances that can support the health, vitality and resilience of horses in various ways. In this blog, we explore the special properties of sea buckthorn and the added value of the whole plant.

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