COMMON NAME Standardized: sea buckthorn BOTANICAL NAME Hippophae rhamnoides L. Plant Family: Elaeagnaceae OVERVIEW This thorny shrub can be found growing on mountain slopes and along riverbanks and seashores. The silver-green leaves are accompanied by yellowish-green flowers that turn into orange berry sized fruits. Native to Asia and Europe, it has been planted throughout China and Russia to aid in erosion control and water conservation. Legends written about sea buckthorn come to us from the Ancient Greeks to Genghis Khan. Most include sick and injured horses being left in the wild, and being discovered later as healthy, strong horses running around. Upon further investigation it was discover that the horses have been surviving on the leaves, twigs, and berries of the sea buckthorn plant. This also leads to the Latin name Hippophae meaning shining horse. For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.