The Goji Berry
The Secret Goji Berry
The goji berry also called the wolfberry, is a bright orange-red berry that comes from a shrub that’s native to China. In Asia, goji berries have been eaten for generations in the hopes of living longer.
Goji berries have a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for the following conditions:
- protect the liver
- help eyesight
- improve sexual function and fertility
- strengthen the legs
- boost immune function
- improve circulation
- promote longevity
Over time, people have used goji berries to try and treat many common health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, fever, and age-related eye problems. They are eaten raw, cooked, or dried, and are used in herbal teas, juices, wines, and medicines.
Although goji berries like the ones used in traditional Chinese medicine aren’t very expensive, goji juice is very pricey. Considering that a 32-ounce bottle of goji juice (about an 18-day supply) can run as high as $50 USD, the evidence isn’t compelling enough at this time to justify the cost of goji juice
While goji berries are a rich source of antioxidants, it’s still unclear how they stack up against other berries. Researchers also don’t know whether goji berry supplements have the same health benefits as the actual berries.
There may be some possible herb-drug interactions with goji berries. If you take warfarin (a blood thinner), you may want to avoid goji berries. Goji berries may also interact with diabetes and blood pressure drugs.
When eaten in moderation, goji berries appear to be safe.
Before adding goji berries or supplements to your diet, discuss your concerns with your health care provider.