Goji Capsules Benefits

Goji, pronounced "go-gee," is a berry that grows on the Lycium plant, which is native to Asia. Goji has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine as an herbal remedy for a variety of purposes. It has gained popularity in North America and its supporters are touting it as a "super fruit."

Nutritional Benefits

Dried goji berries are small and red, resembling raisins in size and texture, and they taste somewhat similar to dried cranberries. They are nutritionally dense and contain amino-acids, B-vitamins, vitamin C, iron and various other minerals Goji is also a rich source of antioxidants such as beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, and it helps to prevent free radical induced damage to your cells and DNA. "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database" states that goji is particularly helpful at protecting against oxidative stress caused by environmental pollutants. Goji also contains polysaccharides, which is a special type of carbohydrate that help to boost immune system function.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, refers to goji as Gou Qi Zi, and uses it to nourish and tonify the blood, liver and kidneys; to enhance circulation and libido; to strengthen muscles and bones; and to promote eye health. According to "Handbook of Chinese Herbs and Formulas," TCM practitioners use goji to help treat cancer, diabetes, dizziness, erectile dysfunction, fever, hypertension, macular degeneration, malaria, nosebleeds, productive cough, tinnitus and wheezing.

Scientifically Confirmed Benefits

Many of the uses for goji are based on anecdotal reports and historical use in China, and few studies have been done to confirm the efficacy of goji for all of its purported uses. However, one study published in the May 14 2008 edition of "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" did examine the health effects of goji juice in a placebo-controlled study. The study gave healthy adults goji juice for 14 days, and it found that consuming goji increased gastrointestinal function and enhanced feelings of general well-being. The goji group experienced increased energy levels and improved athletic performance and quality of sleep. The goji-consuming group also experienced improved psychological health and reported enhanced mental acuity, reduced fatigue and stress levels and increased feelings of calmness, contentment and overall happiness. Other placebo-controlled studies have confirmed that goji is, in fact, a potent antioxidant, and that daily supplementation with goji helps to promote eye health and may help to treat macular degeneration.

Considerations

Goji extract capsules are widely available at health food stores. No serious adverse effects have been reported from the consumption of goji products. However, as with any nutritional supplement, you should talk to your doctor before consuming goji.