Innovative Nanoemulsions of Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) Oil: Insights into Composition and Fibroblast Cell Interactions

The therapeutic use of plants has played a significant role throughout human history. Hippophae rhamnoides L., Elaeagnaceae, or “sea buckthorn,” is renowned for its dermatological benefits, particularly in wound healing and the treatment of skin disorders. This study aimed to develop and characterize nanoemulsion formulations of H. rhamnoides fruit fatty oil; evaluate their cell proliferation, antioxidant activity, and wound healing properties; and determine their fatty acid composition using gas chromatography-flame ionization detector. Gas chromatography-flame ionization detector analysis revealed major fatty acids including palmitoleic, palmitic, elaidic, linoleic, and α-linolenic acids, recognized for their anti-inflammatory and skin-regenerative activities, thereby contributing to the oil’s therapeutic potential. Hippophae rhamnoides fruit oil was incorporated into nanoemulsions using various surfactants. The formulations exhibited zeta potential values from −23.5 to −35.1 mV, droplet sizes between 174.6 and 220.8 nm, and Polydispersity Index values of 0.189–0.248. In vitro assays on L929 fibroblast cells assessed proliferative capacity, protection against hydrogen peroxide–induced cytotoxicity, and wound healing efficiency. Hippophae rhamnoides oil nanoemulsions markedly enhanced cell viability, demonstrated strong antioxidant activity, and provided protection against oxidative stress. Wound healing experiments indicated that nanoemulsions prepared with Span 80, Myritol 318, Span 20, and PEG 6 significantly promoted cell migration and accelerated closure rates. These findings suggest that H. rhamnoides oil nanoemulsions offer a promising strategy for skin repair and protection. Further in vivo studies are recommended to clarify the biochemical and pharmacological mechanisms underlying their therapeutic effects.