1. On a Berry Search
Dried goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are a fruit that look very similar to red raisins. These berries, which have a tangy sweet and sour taste, grow as a plump, bright red berry on an evergreen bush common to warmer areas of China, Mongolia and Tibet, though they can be found throughout the world. You probably won't find goji berries at your local super market but special Chinese herbal shops, specialty shops, health food stores and numerous online sources carry the dried berries as well as goji berry juice and goji berry trail mix.
2. Wisdom of the Ages
Tibetans have known of the medicinal properties of the goji berry for years. For over 1700 years they've used the berries to treat high cholesterol and blood pressure, kidney and liver ailments, skin conditions, allergies, insomnia, and even diabetes and tuberculosis. The Chinese use the berry medicinally in various forms including raw, brewed in teas and soups and as juice.
3. Naturally Chewy Vitamins
Many claims are made of the amazing health benefits of dried goji berries, with some organizations event referring to them as a "super food." This small red berry contains 18 amino acids and is a better source of beta-carotene and iron than carrots and spinach, respectively. They also provide Vitamins B1, B2, B6, E, and more Vitamin C than oranges. If these benefits aren't enough to convince you, goji berries are also 13 percent protein and contain more antioxidants than nearly any other food on earth.
4. Finding Further Benefits
Today scientists continue to study the goji berry and learn of its many health benefits. Research suggests the berry contains elements that enhance can improve memory, aid in muscle growth and serve as an anti-inflammatory source. It also possesses compounds that are beneficial in treating impotence and an enlarged prostate, and can be useful in treating different types of leukemia and cervical cancer. Some sources even claim the goji berry is "the world's most powerful anti-aging food."
5. Berry Good Growing
You can easily grow goji berry plants in many different climates. A number of nurseries confirm the plant can survive harsh winters as well as hot summers with temperature extremes ranging from -15 to 100 degrees F. The plant has a large root system and can grow in almost any type of soil, though it thrives in moderate and well-drained dirt. They grow best in sunny to partially shaded areas. Fruit is not ready to eat from a goji plant for two years after planting but will produce bigger crops after about four or five years.
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