The Sea-buckthorn is a versatile and hardy bush, primarily found in the Northern Regions of Pakistan, including Gilgit, Ghizar, Ganche, Astore, Skardu, Baltistan, and Hunza. For centuries, it has been used as a natural remedy to relieve coughs, improve digestion, enhance blood circulation, and reduce pain. Despite its numerous benefits, Sea-buckthorn remains underutilized, even though it covers over 5,000 acres with an annual production of around 120kg per acre. Previously, the Pakistan Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR) developed and promoted various Sea-buckthorn products and conducted capacity-building projects in the Skardu region to harness its potential.
Locally, Sea-buckthorn is mainly used as firewood, fencing, fodder, and fertilizer. However, its potential as a medicinal plant, food source, and income generator has not been fully recognized. Recently, the Pakistan Agriculture Research Council (Parc) has been promoting Sea-buckthorn products in the Northern Regions through various initiatives.
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