Seabuckthorn – The Wonder Fruit of Ladakh

Seabuckthorn – The Wonder Fruit of Ladakh

When I first heard about seabuckthorn, I’ll admit—I was skeptical. A bright orange berry growing wild in the cold deserts of Ladakh didn’t exactly scream “superfood” to me. But the deeper I dove into this tiny, resilient fruit, the more I became fascinated. Today, I can’t imagine Ladakh’s landscape—or my daily routine—without it.

Seabuckthorn, locally known as Leh berry or Tsestalulu, grows abundantly across the high-altitude valleys of Ladakh. You’ll find its thorny shrubs hugging riverbanks and dotting barren stretches of land, bursting with vibrant orange berries during harvest season. It’s easy to overlook them—until you realize what a powerhouse of nutrients they are.

What makes seabuckthorn so special? For starters, it’s one of the only plants known to contain all four omega fatty acids—Omega 3, 6, 7, and 9. That alone makes it a rarity in the plant world. But it doesn’t stop there. These berries are also packed with vitamin C—about 10 times more than oranges! Not to mention vitamin E, antioxidants, amino acids, and over 190 bioactive compounds.

For centuries, locals in Ladakh have used seabuckthorn for its medicinal properties. My grandmother used to brew it into teas and tonics, especially during the harsh winter months when our immune systems needed a natural boost. I remember the slightly tangy, citrusy taste—it was our version of nature’s energy drink. It helped with digestion, skin health, and even healing wounds.

What I love most about seabuckthorn is that it thrives in Ladakh’s harsh climate. It’s a survivor—just like the people who live here. It doesn’t need much water, it prevents soil erosion, and it even helps in restoring degraded land. In many ways, seabuckthorn is more than a fruit—it’s a symbol of resilience, sustainability, and healing.

Over the last few years, I’ve seen a growing interest in seabuckthorn beyond Ladakh. Whether it’s seabuckthorn juice, supplements, oils, or skincare products, people are beginning to recognize its potential. And while I’m excited to see it gaining popularity, I also hope that this boom supports our local communities—especially the women and farmers who’ve been harvesting it for generations.

If you ever get the chance to visit Ladakh, I encourage you to try seabuckthorn in its many forms. Sip on a glass of juice, taste a homemade jam, or simply walk through a field of seabuckthorn bushes in bloom. It’s an experience that stays with you—not just for its flavor, but for the story it tells.

In a world that’s racing toward the next big health trend, seabuckthorn reminds me to look closer at what nature already offers—especially from the wild, untouched corners of our planet.