A member of the nightshade family Solonaceae, goji berries Lycium barbarum are the most nutritionally dense fruit on earth. Native to the Himalayan mountains of Tibet and Mongolia, the goji berry is now grown in many other countries as well. Goji berry is also known as wolfberry. Goji berries are eaten raw, cooked, or dried (like raisins) and are used in herbal teas, juices, wines and medicines.
Goji berry contains beta-sitosterol which aids in lowering cholesterol and improves sexual health.
They are also loaded with vitamin C, contain more carotenoids than any other food, have twenty-one trace minerals, and are high in fibre.
Goji berry is a nutritional powerhouse, boasting 15 times the amount of iron found in spinach.
Gojis contain polysaccharides: a carbohydrate molecule that contains mucilage, which creates a protective film on the skin.
Goji berries contain 13% more protein than whole meat, and more iron than spinach. Great if you’re at risk of anaemia.
Goji berries contain as many as 22 minerals (including zinc, iron, copper, calcium and selenium) and 11 amino acids.
The zeaxanthin found in goji berries also contributes to better eye function.
They are great source of beta-carotene, which is converted into Vitamin A by the liver. Beta-carotene helps to improve vision in dim lighting, preventing cataracts and maintains cell growth.
Their powerful antioxidant properties and polysaccharides help to boost the immune system.
In traditional Chinese medicine, the goji is said to act on the Kidney and Liver meridians to help with lower back pain, dizziness and eyesight.
Eating goji berries will provide your body with vitamins B1, B2, B6 and E, all of which are essential for breaking down amino acids and fats, and converting carbs into energy.
Some researchers suggests that goji berry extracts may boost brain health and may protect against age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
They are great source of beta-carotene, which is converted into Vitamin A by the liver. Beta-carotene helps to improve vision in dim lighting, preventing cataracts and maintains cell growth.
Caution:
Please note that there can be adverse interactions if you consume goji berries while also taking medication for diabetes, or blood pressure, or take the blood thinner warfarin. So be sure to consult your health care provider if that is the case.
