Which three types of people should avoid consuming sea buckthorn?

Aug 30, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Generally speaking, there is no specific claim that "three types of people cannot consume sea buckthorn." Individuals with excessive stomach acid, those with a cold deficiency pattern of the spleen and stomach, people with sensitive oral mucosa, individuals allergic to sea buckthorn, and specific populations during medication should avoid consuming it. Sea buckthorn has a sour taste and contains a high amount of organic acids, which may exacerbate existing discomfort in some individuals. In daily life, one should make a comprehensive judgment based on their own health condition and medication status.

Generally speaking, there is no saying that "three types of people cannot eat sea buckthorn." Individuals with excessive stomach acid, those with a cold deficiency of the spleen and stomach, people with sensitive oral mucosa, individuals allergic to sea buckthorn, and specific populations during medication periods should avoid consuming sea buckthorn. Sea buckthorn is sour in taste and contains abundant organic acids, which may exacerbate existing discomfort in some individuals. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Individuals with excessive stomach acid: Sea buckthorn contains large amounts of organic acids that can stimulate gastric acid secretion. Those with excessive stomach acid often experience symptoms such as acid reflux and heartburn. Consuming sea buckthorn can further increase gastric acid secretion, intensifying these symptoms and harming stomach health.

2. Individuals with a cold deficiency of the spleen and stomach: Those with a cold deficiency of the spleen and stomach are prone to diarrhea and abdominal pain. Sea buckthorn is relatively cooling in nature, and its acidic components can irritate the gastrointestinal tract. Consuming it may increase the burden on the spleen and stomach, worsening symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain and affecting the recovery of gastrointestinal function.

3. Individuals with sensitive oral mucosa: Sea buckthorn is highly acidic and can irritate the oral mucosa when consumed directly. Those with sensitive oral mucosa or existing mouth ulcers may experience mucosal pain and swelling after consumption, worsening oral discomfort and hindering mucosal healing.

4. Individuals allergic to sea buckthorn: Some people may be allergic to components in sea buckthorn. Consumption may lead to allergic reactions such as skin itching and rashes. In severe cases, it may even cause breathing difficulties. These individuals must strictly avoid consumption to prevent allergic reactions.

5. Specific populations during medication: Sea buckthorn may interact with certain medications—for example, anticoagulants—simultaneous consumption might affect drug efficacy or increase bodily burden. Individuals currently taking specific medications should confirm whether interactions exist before consuming sea buckthorn to avoid interfering with treatment.

In daily life, before choosing to consume sea buckthorn, individuals should make a comprehensive judgment based on their physical condition and medication status. In daily diets, attention should also be paid to selecting appropriate ingredients according to individual constitutions to avoid physical discomfort caused by improper consumption.