Seabuckthorn

The seeds of seabuckthorn and buckwheat grown in the cold desert region of Ladakh are being part of experimental studies aboard the International Space Station (ISS), launched on NASA's Crew-11 mission.

About Seabuckthorn

Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), often referred to as the ‘Wonder Plant’, ‘Ladakh Gold’, or ‘Golden Bush’, is a hardy shrub known for its remarkable adaptability and nutrient-rich berries. This plant thrives in cold desert regions, particularly in the Himalayan region, such as Ladakh and Spiti, which are dry and harsh environments.

• Distribution: Found across Europe and Asia, particularly in the Himalayas above the tree line, including regions like Ladakh and Spiti in India.

• Temperature Tolerance: The plant can withstand extreme temperature ranges, from minus 43°C to 40°C, making it drought-resistant and ideal for cold desert areas.

• Berry Characteristics: The small orange or yellow berries are sour but are rich in vitamin C and other nutrients.

• Unique Feature: Seabuckthorn berries remain on the plant during the harsh winter months, even under subzero temperatures.

Uses of Seabuckthorn

Seabuckthorn has a variety of traditional uses, making it a valuable resource in cold desert ecosystems. Every part of the plant—fruit, leaves, twigs, roots, and even thorns—has been historically utilized for different purposes:

1. Medicinal Uses:

   • Seabuckthorn has been used for its nutritional and therapeutic properties, particularly in improving immunity and skin health.

2. Nutritional Supplement:

   • The berries are rich in vitamins (especially vitamin C) and antioxidants, making them valuable for nutritional supplements and health products.

3. Animal Fodder:

   • The leaves serve as protein-rich fodder for animals like sheep, goats, cattle, and double-humped camels in the desert regions.

4. Fuel and Fencing:

   • The plant's twigs and roots are used as fuel and for building fences in rural and remote areas.

5. Food Source for Wildlife:

   • The berries are an important food source for many bird species in the cold desert when other food sources are scarce.

Conclusion

Seabuckthorn is not only an incredibly resilient plant but also a valuable resource in the cold desert ecosystems of Ladakh and the Himalayas. Its recent inclusion in space experiments aboard the International Space Station highlights the growing interest in its potential, especially in extreme environments.