Characterization of Indian Himalayan region Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) to explore its nutritional, biochemical, thermal and structural attributes

Sea buckthorn (SBT) (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is a versatile shrub rich in bioactive compounds, and has wide applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. This study characterizes the nutritional, biochemical, thermal, and structural properties of Indian Himalayan SBT roots, stems, leaves, and berries using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, FT-IR, XRD, SEM - EDX, DSC, TGA, and 1H - NMR. Berries had the highest fat content (21.10 ± 1.39%) and antioxidant activity (94.63% DPPH inhibition), while stems showed the highest protein (22.28 ± 0.70%). DSC analysis showed multiple exothermic and endothermic peaks varying by plant part, reflecting differences in chemical composition and thermal transitions. TGA revealed staged mass losses due to moisture, polysaccharide decomposition, and lignin degradation, with roots retaining the highest residual mass (~20%). XRD indicated greater crystallinity in roots and stems versus amorphous leaves and berries. NMR identified diverse metabolites, especially sugars and bioactives in berries. Elemental analysis confirmed a predominantly organic composition with variable mineral content. These results provide a comprehensive scientific dataset and a foundation for future investigations into the sustainable valorisation of SBT plant resources. Future studies should evaluate the bioavailability, biological activity, processing stability, and application potential of the identified bioactive compounds.