What Are The Health Benefits Of Dried Goji Berries?

Goji, or wolf, berries are a nutrient-rich fruit containing high levels of antioxidants. The benefits of these berries have only recently been publicized in the United States, but people in Mongolia and China have eaten them for thousands of years. Add dried goji berries to cereal or eat them by the handful to reap their nutritional benefits.

Provide Sun Protection

Goji berries protect the skin from the sun, according to a 2010 University of Sydney study published in "Photochemical and Photobiological Sciences." The study's researchers reported that goji berries reduced an artificially induced sunburn reaction by supporting the skin's immune response. The compounds responsible for the action were the berries' antioxidants.

Boost Sexual Hormones

According to an article in "New Life Journal," the goji berry has been used traditionally to boost sexual desire and stamina. Its aphrodisiac and fertility enhancement qualities have been utilized for thousands of years in Tibet. A 2006 study published in "Life Sciences" confirmed goji's traditional use as an aphrodisiac. The researchers, led by Dr. Q. Luo from Wuhan University, China, found that constituents in goji berries regulated the release of sexual hormones, boosted hormone levels and increased the concentration of sperm in male rats. The researchers concluded that goji berries increase male fertility. Human studies are still needed to confirm these findings.

Provide Nutritional Support

According to alternative medicine experts Dr. Earl Mindell and Rick Handel, authors of "Goji: The Himalayan Health Secret," goji berries contain the following nutrients and beneficial properties that support the body's normal metabolic processes: 19 amino acids, 21 trace minerals, protein, vitamin C, the B family of vitamins, vitamin E and essential fatty acids.

Protect the Eyes

Goji berries may protect the retina of the eye. According to the Healthwise Knowledgebase, goji berries contain zeaxanthin, a compound related to vitamin A that becomes concentrated in the macular tissue of the eye and may protect the retina. Age-related macular degeneration, or the deterioration of the retina, is the leading cause of vision loss in elderly Americans, according to MedlinePlus.