Sea buckthorn (Hippophae) It produces berries that last through winter, providing vitamin C, E, folate, carotenoids, flavonoids and fatty acids. The seed's oil is rich in fatty acids and Vitamin E and K, carotenoids and sterols, a substance that aids in cell function. Uses of the sea buckthorn include cancer treatment, cardiovascular health and wound treatment. The Chinese use sea buckthorn in herbal medicine to treat heart problems; sea buckthorn is effective in decreasing blood pressure, heart rate, plasma cholesterol and triglycerides, while also reducing stress on the small blood vessels within the heart. One component of the sea buckthorn's oil, palmitoleic acid, is also present in human skin, which explains why it is used for burns, wound healing, infections and skin diseases. This oil also has UV-blocking properties, aids in skin regeneration and promotes shiny, healthy hair.