Goji Berry

Other Names:

Wolfberries, Lycium Berries. Matrimony Vine

What is Goji Berry?

The goji berry is a small bright red berry that grows on a hardy shrub native to Asia. The berries have a mildly sweet, slightly tart flavour and are often referred to as a superfood due to their rich antioxidant content and impressive health benefits. They are nutrient dense and provide a wide range of bioactive compounds including vitamins C, A and B, iron, zinc, polysaccharides, carotenoids and dietary fibre.

Health Benefits:

Supports Eye Health

Goji Berries have clear benefits for eye health and vision as they contain high levels of zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta-carotene, which help to shield the retina from harm (such as UV and blue light damage) and delay the onset of macular degeneration linked to loss of vision. Therefore, goji berries may offer a powerful and natural way to prevent age-related degeneration in eye health and decline in eyesight.

Balances Blood Sugar Levels

Research indicates that goji berries may help to balance blood sugar levels, and through this support energy levels, mood stability, healthy weight maintenance and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes. One study found that treating patients with type 2 diabetes with goji berry led to reduced glucose levels and increased insulinogenic index suggesting increased insulin secretion.

Boosts Immune Function

Goji berries may have immune boosting effects that help the body to fight off infections and protect long term health. Polysaccharide fractions within goji berries have been evidenced to enhance immune function by promoting spleen cell antibody production, macrophage phagocytosis, and lymphocyte proliferation in mice. Goji berries are also well known for their potent antioxidant action which is a key component of immunity. Through its antioxidants goji berries can scavenge free radicals, preventing their build up and limiting oxidative damage.

History:

Goji berries have a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine and were historically consumed to support longevity, vision and liver health. They were often prescribed as part of herbal formulations to nourish the blood, improve energy and promote healthy ageing. In East Asia, goji berries have long been regarded as a functional food rather than just a fruit.

Typical Use:

Goji berries are highly versatile and are used in several forms, They can be eaten dried as a snack, added to cereals and trail mixes, brewed to make herbal teas or added to smoothies and juices. These special berries are also used within traditional Chinese soup and broth recipes.

Additionally, goji berries are often incorporated into supplements, typically in powder or capsule form, and within supplements they are regularly combined with other superfoods and natural ingredients to provide comprehensive support for eye health, immunity and vitality.