Oleaster: What is Eating Oleaster Good for?
Oleaster is a type of plant with oval and shelled fruits. The oleaster plant is frequently grown in regions of our country with a continental climate. The color of oleaster is in shades of yellow and brown, and the tree sheds its leaves in winter. The scientific genus name of this plant, which grows in many parts of the world, is Elaeagnus. There are different varieties of this plant, which is in the Elaeagnaceae family. One of the most common types is bird oleaster. There are also many subspecies such as red oleaster and Japanese oleaster.
Benefits of Oleaster
- It facilitates digestion; prevents constipation.
- It is rich in antioxidants.
- It strengthens the immune system.
- It makes it easier to pass kidney stones.
- It may reduce the risk of cancer.
- It has antimicrobial properties.
- Protects cardiovascular health; It balances cholesterol.
- It balances blood sugar.
- It reduces liver fatness.
- Protects oral and dental health.
- It contains high amounts of Omega-7.
- It is good for diarrhea.
Get support from a specialist doctor for the most accurate information and healthy results. The information contained in our content does not constitute a prescription. We wish you healthy days…
It facilitates digestion; Prevents Constipation
Oleaster may support digestive health and help prevent constipation. Oleaster is a type of fruit rich in fiber. Fibers are important for the digestive system; because it regulates bowel movements and helps the stool pass easily. Therefore, consuming fiber-rich foods, especially fruits such as oleaster, can reduce the risk of constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
Rich in Antioxidants
Sea buckthorn fruits contain high amounts of antioxidants. By protecting the body from free radicals, these antioxidants can prevent cellular damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Strengthens the Immune System
Oleaster is a fruit rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that has positive effects on the immune system. It protects the body against infections by fighting viruses and bacteria.
Oleaster contains various antioxidants. Antioxidants can prevent cellular damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. This may help the immune system work better.
Makes It Easier to Pass Kidney Stones
The most well-known benefit of oleaster is that it helps relieve kidney disorders. Oleaster supports the kidney to function optimally.
Sea buckthorn contains high water content and antioxidants that can help prevent urinary tract infections. Drinking plenty of water and going to the bathroom regularly to prevent urinary tract infections is an important part of maintaining kidney health.
May Lower the Risk of Cancer
Oleaster is rich in vitamin C, beta-carotene and other antioxidants. Antioxidants can help prevent cellular damage by neutralizing free radicals. This may play an important role in reducing the risk of cancer.
Oleaster may contain ingredients that can reduce inflammation. Chronic inflammation may increase the risk of cancer. These effects of oleaster may help reduce the risk of cancer.
It has antimicrobial properties
Oleaster may have antimicrobial properties. Antimicrobial properties refer to the ability of a food or plant to combat microorganisms, containing ingredients that inhibit the growth of or kill microbes (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.).
Oleaster may have antimicrobial effects thanks to some components it contains. These components include phenolic compounds, flavonoids and tannins. These ingredients can be effective in fighting microorganisms.
Protects Cardiovascular Health; Balances Cholesterol
Oleaster is a fruit rich in fiber. Fiber adds an indigestible substance to the body, which can help control blood cholesterol levels by slowing down the digestive process. High cholesterol levels may increase the risk of heart disease. Eating oleaster may help lower cholesterol.
It is thought that some components contained in oleaster, especially potassium, may help lower blood pressure. High blood pressure can harm heart health, so it’s important to lower blood pressure.
Balances Blood Sugar
Oleaster has a low glycemic index. The glycemic index measures a food’s potential to raise blood sugar. Foods with a low glycemic index can help keep blood sugar more consistently under control.
Reduces Fatty Liver
Since oleaster is a fiber-rich fruit, it can support general body health and the digestive system. This may indirectly affect liver health because many vitamins and minerals that support liver functions are provided by the digestive system.
Protects Oral and Dental Health
Oleaster is a fruit that may be beneficial to oral and dental health. Since oleaster is a fiber-rich fruit, it can increase saliva production during chewing. Saliva can neutralize acids in the mouth and protect tooth enamel. Additionally, sea buckthorn is a naturally sweet fruit, which may offer a sweet alternative and help reduce consumption of sugary snacks.
Contains High Levels of Omega-7
Oleaster fruit may contain Omega-7 fatty acids. Oleaster oil is especially rich in Omega-7 fatty acid, known as Palmitoleic acid. Omega-7 fatty acids may provide some health benefits. In particular, they may play a role in skin health, protecting mucosal membranes, and fighting inflammation.
Good for Diarrhea
Oleaster is a fruit traditionally believed to help treat diarrhea. Its fiber and some ingredients may help relieve diarrhea and support intestinal health. However, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional before using oleaster or oleaster products, especially if you have a chronic diarrhea condition.
What are the Benefits of Oleaster Leaf?
- Tea made with oleaster leaves can have a soothing effect in conditions such as cough.
- It is thought that oleaster leaf teaaccelerates the metabolism and makes the body more resistant to problems that may occur in the intestines.
To prevent negative effects, consult your doctor before consuming oleaster leaves or oleaster tea .
What are the Benefits of Oleaster Juice?
- When it comes to sea buckthorn juice , the water obtained by boiling its fruit usually comes to mind. Sea buckthorn juice has a relaxing effect on the digestive system.
- Sea buckthorn can be used as tea in some regions. The scent of tea made with buckthorn flowers is very pleasant and stimulates the appetite.
- In order to avoid various ailments, consult your doctor before consuming buckthorn juice or buckthorn tea.
Scientific Studies on the Benefits of Oleaster
Antioxidant Effects
Oleaster fruit contains high amounts of antioxidant components. Antioxidants can reduce cellular damage by fighting free radicals. One study has shown that oleaster extract has strong antioxidant activity.
[Source: “In vitro evaluation of antioxidant activity of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. stem bark.” Pharmaceutical Biology, 2011]
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Oleaster leaves and fruit may have anti-inflammatory properties that may help treat inflammation-related conditions. Research has shown that oleaster extract reduces inflammation and may therefore contribute to the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
[Source: “Effect of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. (oleaster) on pain, disease activity, and quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.” Rheumatology International, 2013]
Cardiovascular Health
Oleaster may have positive effects on cardiovascular health. It is suggested that oleaster leaf extract, in particular, may help reduce cholesterol levels and therefore be effective in protecting cardiovascular health.
[Source: “Effect of Elaeagnus angustifolia in lipid profile in hyperlipidemic patients.” An-Najah University Journal for Research (Natural Sciences), 2014]
Gastrointestinal Health
Some studies suggest that oleaster extract may improve digestive health and protect against stomach upset.
[Source: “The effects of dietary supplementation with Elaeagnus angustifolia L. on the serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.” International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases, 2015]
It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using oleaster and oleaster products. Especially if you have any medical conditions or medication use. You should be careful when consuming oleaster and follow the recommended dosages.
Oleaster Calories and Nutritional Values
These values represent approximately 2,000% of the daily requirement. Oleaster attracts attention as a fruit that is especially rich in vitamin C and fiber.
| Nutritive value | Quantity (100g) | Daily Percentage Value (%) |
| Energy | 87 kcal | – |
| Carbohydrates | 22.3g | 7% |
| Fiber | 5.4g | 22% |
| candies | 16.8g | – |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Oil | 0.4g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 2mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 354 mg | 10% |
| Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) | 66 mg | 110% |
| Vitamin A (Retinol Equivalent) | 282 IU | 6% |
| Iron | 1.58mg | 9% |
| Calcium | 43 mg | 4% |
| Magnesium | 21 mg | 5% |
Where Do Oleaster Trees Grow? What are its features?
Since the oleaster tree has the ability to store nitrogen in its roots, it can also grow in infertile soils. Among the features of the oleaster tree, drought resistance is among the top features. Due to this feature, it is planted in areas struggling with erosion. The oleaster tree is often planted around garden edges due to its flowers and pleasant scent.
In our country, oleaster cultivation is generally carried out in the Central Anatolia region. Its leaves, which have a pale green color, create a very beautiful appearance. Oleaster trees, which can adapt to many weather conditions, can grow up to approximately 7 meters, and the leaves of the oleasters that bloom around June can maintain their green color. Oleaster is a plant that is famous for its aesthetic appearance as well as its beautiful scent and health benefits.
Oleaster cultivation can be done with oleaster tree saplings or oleaster seeds . For seed cultivation, the seeds are stratified appropriately. Folded seeds are sown in spring. Oleaster can also grow spontaneously in rural areas.
When the oleaster fruit matures, the outer shell turns soil color. At this stage, the fruit completes the ripening process and becomes edible. The broken branches of the oleaster tree can be preserved by placing them in water in vases at home as a fragrant ornamental plant. The buds of the oleaster tree are short and its shoots are spiny. The oleaster tree, which also has shrub-shaped species, is not a very long-lived tree. It will be beneficial to prune the oleaster tree that blooms in late spring in mid-summer.
How to Eat Oleaster?
The oleaster tree fruit is edible fresh and has a unique bitter taste. Since it has a slightly flour-like structure, it leaves a different feeling in the mouth when eating. Tea can be made from its fruit or leaves. Both fresh and dried consumption are beneficial for health.
Jam can be made and its unique taste can be accompanied with breakfasts. Compote will be a nice alternative to accompany main dishes with its consistency and aroma. Every element of the oleaster tree, which is very capable of adapting to difficult conditions, can be used, from its fruits to its leaves and flowers.
The scent of its flowers is also very popular, and it can be consumed in many different ways in various parts of the world. In addition to examples such as oleaster vinegar made in the Far East, innovative uses such as oleaster flour are also emerging.
- Fresh Oleaster Food:You can eat oleaster directly. Just remove the stem of the fruit and eat. Since its shell is thin, you can easily chew it.
- Dried Oleaster:You can dry the oleaster and consume it as dried fruit. Dried buckthorn is ideal as a sweet snack or breakfast mix.
- Making Jam or Marmalade:You can use oleaster in making jam or marmalade. With this method, you can both enjoy the fruit and preserve it for a long time.
- Desserts and Cakes:You can use oleaster in your desserts, cake or cookie recipes. It makes a delicious addition especially to cookies and cakes.
- For Jam:You can use oleaster in making jam.
