Goji Berry Juice Side Effects

Goji berry juice is obtained from the fruit of the Lycium barbarum shrub, a medicinal plant that is native to China. The University of Michigan's Healthwise Knowledgebase notes that the berry provides a number of benefits, including protecting the liver, improving eyesight and blood circulation, enhancing immune function and increasing sperm production. However, drinking goji berry juice may result in a number of side effects.
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Drug Interactions

Active compounds in goji berry juice may interact with certain drugs, particularly those formulated as anti-coagulants, or blood thinners, such as warfarin, also called coumadin. In a study published in the Annals of Pharmacotherapy, A. Y. Lam, et al., report on a case involving a possible herb-drug interaction between warfarin and goji berry juice. It involved a 61-year-old patient who became more prone to bleeding after drinking four glasses of goji berry while taking warfarin. The researchers attributed this effect to the drink interfering with the metabolism of S-warfarin, the active compound in this medication that is responsible for its anti-coagulant properties.

Anti-Coagulant Properties

The anticoagulant properties of goji berry juice, while beneficial for some health conditions, may have an adverse effect on individuals who suffer from blood-coagulation disorders such as hemophilia. Hemophiliacs lack an essential clotting factor that hinders the capacity of their blood to clot.

Toxicity

The book "Biodiversity: Journal of Life on Earth" notes that you should exercise caution when taking goji berry because of potential toxicity. This is because goji, like other species in the Solanaceae family, is known to contain naturally occurring amounts of a toxic compound called atropine. According to Reference.com, atropine can produce rapid heart rate, dry skin and dilated pupils and may anesthetize nerve endings in the skin.

Hypoglycemic Effects

Drinking goji juice may also interact with diabetes medication. Goji juice has hypoglycemic properties that can cause a significant drop in blood sugar levels, according to a report published in the November 26, 2004 issue of "Life Sciences." The hypoglycemic effect of this drink may increase the activity of diabetic medications, causing blood sugar levels to drop to dangerously low levels. Diabetics should consult with a licensed health care provider before drinking goji berry juice while on anti-diabetic medication.