My favourite weekly programme has once again taught me something new. Last week Countryfile visited an entrepreneurial farm in Cornwall where Sea Buckthorn is being grown as a field crop. It is claimed that it can be used for many health purposes. Whilst I am by no means suggesting eating the berries straight from the tree they can be bought as a supplement, as an oil and the Countryfile presenters were certainly sampling the juice. Clearly some health and dietary experts believe that the berries could be a new superfood.
We are already growing it for sale next autumn and I happen to have a beautiful example of the species growing in our garden. I initially planted Sea Buckthorn as an impenetrable hedge as it has very sharp thorns. However, it is also a very attractive screen with pretty orange berries loved by our garden thrushes and blackbirds.
Although more research is required into sea buckthorn for human health purposes it is thought that it may:
- Be rich in many nutrients
- Promote heart health
- Protect against diabetes
- Protect skin
- Boost the immune system
- Support a healthy liver
- Help fight cancer cells
- Improve digestion
- Reduce menopausal symptoms
- Treat dry eyes
- Lower inflammation
- Reduce symptoms of depression
Countryfile goes out Sundays on BBC1 at 18:10 the timing of which does clash with Dancing on Ice so I ensure I am in position by 17:00!
