News
Should I take omega-3 supplements? What the science and experts say
Thinking about taking omega-3 supplements? Just Vitamins explains the science, benefits, and how to choose the best one for your health goals.
Learn more
When is the best time to take multivitamins? Optimising absorption and benefits
Taking multivitamins can help support your health and wellbeing, but when should you take them? Just Vitamins explains how you can incorporate these supplements into your daily routine.
Learn more
What is BioPerine® and why is it essential for turmeric absorption?
BioPerine® works best alongside turmeric - but why? Just Vitamins explains how BioPerine works and why turmeric plays such an important role in the absorption of this supplement.
Learn more
Do joint supplements work? Separating fact from fiction
Just Vitamins examines whether joint supplements really work, their role in arthritis relief and which ingredients may be beneficial for joint health.
Learn more
What is turmeric good for? The science behind this natural supplement
Just Vitamins explores the science-backed benefits of turmeric. Learn how turmeric supports inflammation, blood pressure, weight management, and more.
Learn moreDo multivitamins actually work? The science behind daily supplements
Are multivitamins worth taking? Just Vitamins examines the science, benefits and proper usage of daily supplements for your health.
Learn more
How does Sea Buckthorn Oil support skin health?
Maintaining healthy, resilient skin isn’t just about what you put on your face, it’s also about the nutrients you feed your body. In recent years, supplements derived from the bright orange berries of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) have attracted attention for their potential to support skin hydration, elasticity, barrier function, and even combat inflammation. Below, we explore the key bioactives in sea buckthorn, the mechanisms by which they act, and the clinical evidence backing their skin-health benefits. What Is Sea Buckthorn? Sea buckthorn is a hardy shrub native to Europe and Asia, long used in traditional medicine to treat skin disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and more. Today, its oil - extracted either from the seeds or the pulp of the berries - has become a popular nutraceutical and cosmetic ingredient. Bioactive Compounds in Sea Buckthorn Oil Fatty acids: Omega-7 (palmitoleic acid) – abundant in pulp oil (up to ~33%), key for skin and mucosal repair Omega-3 (α-linolenic acid) and omega-6 (linoleic acid) – essential for barrier function Omega-9 (oleic acid) – supports membrane fluidity Vitamins & antioxidants: Vitamin C and vitamin E – neutralize free radicals Carotenoids (β-carotene, lycopene) – protect against UV and oxidative stress Minor lipids: tocopherols, tocotrienols, plant sterols en.wikipedia.org Together, these compounds contribute to sea buckthorn’s reputation as a skin-supporting supplement. Mechanisms of Action Barrier enhancement & hydration Fatty acids such as linoleic and palmitoleic acids help rebuild and maintain skin’s lipid barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss and boosting moisture retention. Anti-inflammatory effects In atopic-dermatitis models, palmitoleic acid inhibits key inflammatory pathways (NF-κB, STAT1), decreasing cytokine release and lesion severity medicalnewstoday.com. Antioxidant protection Vitamins C/E and carotenoids scavenge reactive oxygen species generated by UV exposure and pollution, slowing photo-aging and collagen breakdown. Collagen synthesis & elasticity Topical application and oral delivery have both been shown to stimulate dermal fibroblasts, increasing collagen deposition and improving skin firmness. Clinical Evidence Atopic Dermatitis and Skin Lipid Composition Yang et al. (2000) conducted a placebo-controlled study in 16 patients with atopic dermatitis who consumed 5 g/day of sea buckthorn seed or pulp oil for 4 months. Analysis of skin glycerophospholipids showed a modest increase in anti-inflammatory docosapentaenoic acid and reduction in palmitic acid, suggesting dietary sea buckthorn oil can beneficially modulate skin lipid profiles and support barrier health. Skin Ageing in Mature Women Yang et al. (2008) randomized 60 women (age 50–70) to either take four 0.5 g capsules of supercritical CO₂-extracted sea buckthorn oil daily or apply a 1% seed-oil night cream twice daily for 3 months. Oral group: significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, plus reductions in surface roughness metrics (Ra, Rz), indicating an anti-wrinkle effect. Topical group: increased cutaneous thickness, reflecting enhanced collagen synthesis. Brightness, Moisture & Elasticity in Middle-Aged Women Chan et al. (2024) ran a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 40 women over 45, administering daily sea buckthorn oil softgels. Compared to placebo, the supplement group demonstrated: Marked increases in facial skin brightness, moisture, and elasticity (moisture peaked at week 8) Improved collagen density Reduced redness and fewer visible pores. Conclusion Sea buckthorn supplements harness a unique blend of omega fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that support skin barrier function, hydration, elasticity, and modulate inflammation. Robust clinical trials, from atopic dermatitis to skin ageing and brightness, underscore its promise as a natural adjunct for skin health. Future large-scale studies will further refine optimal dosing and long-term safety, but current evidence positions sea buckthorn oil as a versatile tool in the battle for healthier, more resilient skin. View Product
Learn more
Consider a Fish Oil Supplement for Energy and Mood
The potential benefits of fish oil supplements for increasing energy levels and improving mood have been studied extensively, primarily due to their high content of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Here’s a look at the evidence: Effects on Mood and Depression Clinical Trials and Meta-Analyses: Several studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA, may help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, which are often linked to low energy. A 2019 meta-analysis published in Translational Psychiatry reviewed 26 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and found that omega-3 supplementation, particularly with a higher EPA-to-DHA ratio, significantly reduced depressive symptoms. Another 2020 review in JAMA Psychiatry analyzed data from over 10,000 participants and found that omega-3 supplementation had a small but significant antidepressant effect, especially in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD). The American Psychiatric Association (APA) now recognizes omega-3s as a complementary treatment for depression. Neurotransmitter Regulation: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for dopamine and serotonin function - two neurotransmitters that play key roles in mood regulation and motivation. Low levels of omega-3s have been linked to increased inflammation, which is associated with fatigue and depression. Effects on Energy Levels and Fatigue Chronic Fatigue a Energy Metabolism: Studies have shown that omega-3s can reduce fatigue and improve energy metabolism. A 2016 study in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that omega-3 supplementation improved physical and mental fatigue in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). A 2021 study in Nutrients reported that individuals with higher omega-3 levels experienced lower fatigue and better endurance during physical activities. Mitochondrial Function & Inflammation: Omega-3s enhance mitochondrial efficiency, improving energy production at the cellular level. Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to fatigue. Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties, reducing cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-alpha, which are linked to fatigue and low energy levels. Cognitive Function & Brain Health Memory and Concentration: Low energy is often accompanied by brain fog or difficulty concentrating. A 2022 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that omega-3 supplementation improved cognitive function, reaction time, and mental clarity in adults experiencing brain fog. A 2020 meta-analysis in Nutrients concluded that DHA supplementation improved attention and working memory, both of which can contribute to perceived energy levels. Stress & Sleep Improvements Cortisol Regulation: Chronic stress can deplete energy levels, and omega-3s have been shown to reduce cortisol (a stress hormone). A 2018 study in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity found that omega-3 supplementation lowered cortisol levels and stress-related fatigue. Better Sleep = More Energy: Poor sleep quality can lead to chronic fatigue. A 2014 study in the Journal of Sleep Research found that higher omega-3 levels were associated with longer and deeper sleep, leading to better energy levels during the day. Conclusion: Is Fish Oil Worth Taking for Energy and Mood? Strong evidence suggests that EPA-rich fish oil supplements can help reduce symptoms of depression, lower inflammation-related fatigue, and improve cognitive function. The effects on general energy levels are less directly studied, but the improvements in sleep, mitochondrial function, and reduced inflammation suggest a potential benefit. While not a miracle cure, fish oil supplements may help if you experience low energy due to inflammation, stress, poor sleep, or mood issues. View Product
Learn more
The benefits of supplementing with Pumpkin Seed Oil
Pumpkin seed oil is gaining attention for its potential health benefits, thanks to its rich nutrient profile, including essential fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. This article explores the scientific evidence supporting its benefits in various areas of health. Prostate Health and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Studies suggest that pumpkin seed oil may help reduce symptoms of BPH, a common condition in aging men that causes urinary issues. A 2014 study in Urology International found that men with BPH who took 320 mg of pumpkin seed oil daily for six months experienced significant improvements in urinary function compared to a placebo group. A 2009 study in Phytotherapy Research also reported that pumpkin seed oil improved urinary flow and reduced symptoms in men with mild-to-moderate BPH. The oil’s high content of phytosterols and zinc may contribute to hormonal balance and prostate health. Heart Health and Cholesterol Regulation Pumpkin seed oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health. A 2015 animal study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that PSO reduced blood pressure and improved heart function in hypertensive rats. A 2019 human study in Clinical Nutrition Research showed that consuming pumpkin seed oil led to reduced LDL ("bad") cholesterol and increased HDL ("good") cholesterol levels, lowering overall cardiovascular risk. The presence of phytosterols, tocopherols (vitamin E), and omega-6 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation and improve lipid profiles. Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties Pumpkin seed oil contains antioxidants like vitamin E, carotenoids, and polyphenols, which help neutralize oxidative stress and inflammation. A 2020 review in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity highlighted that the antioxidant compounds in pumpkin seed oil help combat oxidative damage and chronic inflammation, which are linked to conditions like arthritis and metabolic disorders. Another study found that pumpkin seed oil supplementation helped reduce inflammation markers in patients with arthritis. The mechanism thought to be down to the oil’s high antioxidant content helping to reduce oxidative stress, which is a key contributor to chronic diseases. Hair Growth and Male Pattern Baldness Pumpkin seed oil has been studied for its effects on hair growth, particularly in men experiencing androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness). A 2014 randomized, double-blind study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that men who took 400 mg of pumpkin seed oil daily for 24 weeks had 40% more hair growth compared to those in the placebo group. This is thought to be because pumpkin seed oil may inhibit 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is linked to hair loss. Menopause and Hormonal Balance Pumpkin seed oil may help alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and mood swings. A 2011 study in Climacteric: The Journal of the International Menopause Society found that menopausal women taking pumpkin seed oil experienced reduced hot flashes, improved mood, and increased HDL cholesterol levels compared to those taking a placebo. This is thought to be due to the phytoestrogens present in pumpkin seed oil and there potential ability to help balance estrogen levels and reduce menopause symptoms. Skin Health Research has shown that topical application of pumpkin seed oil helps with skin hydration, elasticity, and wound healing due to its rich content of fatty acids and vitamin E. It is the presence of Linoleic acid and vitamin E in the oil that helps maintain skin barrier function and combat oxidative stress. Gut Health and Digestive Benefits It has been traditionally used to help with digestive health and may have antimicrobial properties. Some studies suggest that pumpkin seed oil may help reduce intestinal inflammation and protect against ulcers and parasites. The thought is that it's the healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties of the oil that support gut health and may help alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders. Conclusion: Should You Take a Pumpkin Seed Oil Supplement? While there are no approved health claims for Pumpkin Seed Oil, based on current evidence, it appears to offer multiple health benefits, particularly for: Prostate health (BPH) Heart health (cholesterol & blood pressure) Hair growth and DHT inhibition Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support Menopause symptom relief Skin and gut health For optimal results, dosage recommendations typically range from 500 mg to 2,000 mg per day in capsule form. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications. View Product
Learn more