The goji berry is the fruit of a shrub found in China. People from China and Tibet have been enjoying its health benefits for centuries. There are 42 types of berries, but the most common are the lycii berry, known as the Chinese wolfberry; lycium barbarus, grown in Tibet, Inner Mongolia, and wild in areas of China; ningxia berries from China; and xinjiang berries from the Tianshan Mountains. They can be used as dried berries, tea, capsules or juice. As with any alternative medication or herbs, always consult with your health practitioner before use.
Potential Benefits
According to the University of Michigan Health System, the goji berry may help with macular degeneration. Zeaxanthin, a carotenoid, is found in the goji berry. When this substance is eaten or made as tea or juice, it may help protect the retina by concentrating in the macular pigment of the eye. Although human research has only shown that goji berries raise blood levels of zeaxanthin, animal research has shown that in animals, it increases macular pigment. Other research done by the university reported when polysaccharides were given orally to animals or injected into the stomach in large amounts, they lowered glucose levels, triglycerides, cholesterol, and insulin; improved the status of antioxidants; protected DNA; helped slow down the growth and spread of cancer cells; boosted the immune system; helped prevent fatigue from exercise; protected the liver from damage; promoted longevity; and improved fertility and performance in animals that were partially castrated. It has not been tested for these things in humans.
Nutrients in Goji Tea
Goji tea, made from goji berries, has four polysaccharides or phytonutrient compounds that direct and carry the cells' commands to the receptors, allowing the majority of the cells in the body to function smoothly, including the immune-defense system. It contains nutrients such as: amino acids; calcium; vitamins A, B1, B2 and C; iron; potassium; magnesium; zinc; protein; phosphorus; carotene; and zeaxanthin. It also contains superoxide dismutase, which is an antioxidant that attacks free radicals in the body.
Nutrients in Goji Juice
While goji juice should contain the same ingredients as the berry or the tea, there are many manufacturers that make the juice. Since there is no control over the juice by the Food and Drug Administration, it is impossible to know how much of the berries are actually in the juice. In some cases it is possible that there could actually be only trace amounts or none. Also, you may not know the quality of the berries that were used in making the juice. Buying from a reputable source can help alleviate some of your concern.
Daily Amount of Tea
The suggested amount of the tea to take is 1/2 cup daily that has been made from 5 to 15 g of dried berries. In addition to the berry, goji tea can also be made to include the leaves, stems and roots, which provide additional health benefits. You can also make your own tea from the dried goji berries and you can eat the remainder of the berry so that you know you are getting all of the nutrients and fiber from the berries. There are also manufactured goji teas on the market that you can buy.
Daily Amount of Juice
While the suggested daily usage of goji berries to raise zeaxanthin levels in the blood is 15 g per day, there is no information on the amount of goji juice to drink on a daily basis because there is no way of knowing how diluted the juice is. In many cases, the juice contains sugar, which is not good for diabetics. Juicing separates the fiber from the pulp and also causes some of the nutrients to be lost.
Cautions and Warnings
When using goji berries, wash them thoroughly, as they are grown in countries that use chemicals.
Do not use goji berries if you are taking anticoagulants.
The goji berry is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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