Anticarcinogenic potential of lipids from Hippophae--evidence from the recent literature.

Hippophae (Sea buckthorn) is a deciduous species, widely distributed throughout the world. Its important products are whole berries, leaves, juice and oil. The last two give this plant a shining name and position in medicinal plants. They contain different kinds of nutrients and bioactive substances such as vitamins, carotenoids, flavonoids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, free amino acids and elemental components. The clinical trials and scientific studies during the 20th century confirm medicinal and nutritional value of sea buckthorn, and the most important of them is its anti-carcinogenic properties. This mini-review is focused on the anti-carcinogenic potential of lipids from this plant, in order to open up a clear understanding for further detailed study in this regard.