Sea buckthorn leaves - useful properties and contraindications

It is hardly worth mentioning the medicinal properties and mentioning the vitaminizing potential of tart sea-buckthorn fruits. But the leaves of this medicinal plant are often undeservedly overlooked even among herbalists. Nevertheless, they help to cope not only with diseases of the common cold, but are also quite effective in treating such disorders as anemia or cardiopathy and a number of other diseases.

The substances contained in the leaves of sea buckthorn

Three compounds and a group of acids, which accumulate the leaves of this plant in noticeable amounts, possess the most pronounced healing properties.

1. Serotonin. The neurotransmitter, commonly known as the "hormone of happiness." However, its development by the body or its reception not only contributes to the overall improvement of the functionality of the nervous system (normalization of sleep or improvement of cognitive processes, for example). Serotonin also prevents the development of malignant tumors.
2. Tannins. It is the presence of these polyphenolic compounds that provides the astringent taste characteristic of the fruits and leaves of sea buckthorn. The content of tannins in them can reach 10%. Their benefits are anti-inflammatory effects.
3. Tanning compounds. Provide antiseptic properties of both infusions and decoctions of sea buckthorn leaves.
4. Oleanolic acid. Combines hepatoprotective and antiviral properties.
5. Vitamin C. One of the main "bricks" of bone and connective tissue.
6. Ursolic acid. Fat burner with broad anabolic properties; able to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

In general, sea buckthorn leaf is best known for its hepatoprotective effects. Its severity allows researchers to consider the means on the basis of this sheet to be no less effective than, for example, chicory or milk thistle, having similar properties. So, for effective protection of the liver against negative factors of interaction with carbon tetrachloride, it is enough to take a daily dose of sea buckthorn leaf extract in a volume of 100 mg.

Practical use

Common ways to use sea buckthorn leaf - the use of decoction, infusion or tea, prepared on their basis. Listed drinking is effective for treating the following conditions and disorders:

1. Treatment of ARVI. In addition, sea buckthorn tea is a cure for seasonal diseases, it can be used as an immunizing prophylactic agent.
2. Correction of high blood pressure. The hypotensive properties of both decoctions and tinctures based on sea buckthorn leaves can not only prevent the development of hypertension, but also contribute to the normalization of impaired pressure.
3. Treatment of cardiopathy and vascular wall strengthening. The positive effect of the above funds on such states as angina, coronary heart disease and other cardiopathies was noted. The substances contained in the leaves of sea buckthorn, can not only lower blood pressure, but also clean the bloodstream.
4. Diabetes. Both infusions and decoctions prepared on the basis of sea buckthorn leaf have pronounced hypoglycemic properties. This allows you to effectively combine them (but not replace!) With other drugs for the treatment of diabetes.
5. Pathology of the joints. The soreness and swelling of the joints, characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis or gout, can be alleviated by taking remedies using sea buckthorn leaf. This practice is especially relevant during periods of exacerbation of diseases of the joints.
6. Liver disease. American researchers have identified hepatoprotective properties of sea buckthorn leaf. This feature allows you to use it as a means of regenerating liver cells during inflammation of this organ.

Recipes

1. Tea. The most affordable way to use sea buckthorn leaves. For 1 tablespoon of boiling water prepare 1 tablespoon of dried or fresh leaves. Pour the leaves into a container of glass or faience, pour boiling water; strain after 15-20 minutes of infusion. The resulting tea to drink warm, reception - daily by 2-3 times. Adding honey / sugar is acceptable. Excellent prevention of both acute respiratory viral infections and inflammatory diseases. As a means of general impact, such tea is an excellent help in the fight against insomnia, manifestations of irritability, apathy and unmotivated mood changes.
2. Infusion. For its preparation, you also need a dry or fresh sheet. For every 500 ml of boiling water you need 2 tablespoons of greens. The ideal container for infusion is a thermos, which should be placed in a warm place for half an hour - an hour. Strain the resulting liquid; taking infusion daily, 3-4 times ¼ tablespoon. This tool is recommended to use in cases of diseases of the joints or metabolic disorders. When blepharitis, external use of sea buckthorn infusion is to wash the eyes.
3. Decoction. At 1 liter of boiling water will need 4 tablespoons of leaves. Leaves filled with cold water to a boil, then cook for 10-15 minutes in a water bath or minimal heat. Let it stand for 30-40 minutes; strain, cool. Although the decoction in the preparation is more difficult than - for example - tea, the range of its therapeutic effects is much wider compared to a regular infusion. In addition, the advantage of the decoction is that it is in him tannins go in much larger quantities. It is effective in pathologies: the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system, liver, dental nature (stomatitis, gingivitis).It is also used to treat throat (pharyngitis, sore throat, SARS), diabetes, high blood pressure. Treat the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat with a rinse. The remaining listed diseases require prolonged intake of broth 3-4 times a day in по-1/2 tablespoons. By the way, its use is possible even in cases of diagnosed gastric and duodenal ulcers. It effectively eliminates irritation and inflammation in the digestive system. Perhaps the use of cooked broth and as a means for external application. For example, it may be effective for seborrhea or hair loss. In addition, lotions with decoction are used to get rid of acne and excessive sweating.
4. Alcohol tincture. The advantage of this tool - in the duration of storage. The medicinal properties of the leaf are preserved for years, at the same time eliminating the tincture owners from the hassle of preparing decoctions. Another plus of this form of preparation of sea buckthorn medication is that the solubility of serotonin in alcohol is much higher than in water. Ingredients: ½ tablespoon of 40% alcohol per 2 tablespoons of dried leaf / 5 tablespoons of fresh leaves. Insist 2 weeks in a dark place, from time to time, stir the tincture.Take ½-1 teaspoon 2-3 times a day, based on the dynamics of the disease.

In addition, the healing use of sea buckthorn leaf is possible not only as an independent ingredient in various means, but also as part of the collection in combination with other plants. For example, it may be effective mixture, which, in addition to the leaves of sea buckthorn, includes chamomile inflorescences, branches of viburnum or horsetail. It is recommended for use in such disorders as psoriasis or neurodermatitis.

Contraindications

The advantages of sea buckthorn leaves are not only in their universality of use, but also in safety. So, funds based on them can be taken during periods of pregnancy and breastfeeding. Children infusions and decoctions can be given at the age of 1 year. Contraindications apply only to sea buckthorn tincture and are common to all alcohol-containing agents. Their admission is prohibited during breastfeeding, pregnancy, as well as persons with liver pathologies and children under 12 years of age. And, of course, the use of tincture is unacceptable when working with increased safety requirements, complex devices / mechanisms,driving a vehicle.

Before a course of prevention / treatment with sea buckthorn leaves, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Video: health benefits of sea buckthorn