Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.
Hippocrates
By Geanna Georgescu
Goji Berries(Lycii Fructus) also called wolfberry, has been a very valuable food in Asia –China, Korea, Japan since at least the 3rd century CE. and considered a general tonic, anti-aging herb, and eyesight-improving medicine for a long time now.
Why are Goji berries so great?
The amount of beta-carotene in goji berries is one the highest of all edible plants (more than carrots); it promotes healthy, glowing skin.
Goji berries contain high quantities of super antioxidants like beta carotene, zeaxanthin and essential polysaccharides.
Goji berries are low in calories, fat-free and are filled with fibre .
A serving of Goji berries can contain 7 grams of fibre and 6 grams of protein.
- What does this mean for health?
Beta-carotene
It is vital for eye health, bone health, skin health, and cell development.
Zeaxanthin
It plays a crucial role in assisting the immune system. Some studies demonstrated that zeaxanthin can prevent macular degeneration, a progressive vision impairment that occurs when the central part of the retina.
Polysaccharides
They are a primary characteristic of the goji berry.
These are an essential source of dietary fibre.
According to some studies, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology Effect of the Lycium barbarum polysaccharides goji berries helped with improving immune function and increasing total antioxidant activity in the body.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874106006775
Some of the valuable nutrients this powerhouse fruit contains are:
- 18 amino acids, high in protein (approximate 13%)
- 6 important vitamins especially rich in vitamin B, E
- High in iron (more than spinach) and other minerals
- Important Fatty acids: linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid
- 5 powerful carotenoids — beta carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein, lycopene, and cryptoxanthin
- High fibre content
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6343173/
Goji Berries Benefits
- Anti-inflammatory,antibacterial, anti-fungal
- Strengthen the muscles and bones
- Supports eye health
- Boost the immune system, general tonic
- Normalizes blood sugar levels
- Improves memory
- Anti-aging properties
How to eat Goji berries?
You can eat them dried or rehydrate them in hot water. Some prefer adding goji berries to smoothies, trail mixes, or sprinkle on yogurt, porridge, or cereal.
I enjoy making tea by pouring hot water over them and then cover for a few minutes.
You can add them in your baking treats such as muffins, breads, pies…..Basically, goji berries can be baked, cooked, or steamed.
Where to buy them from?
You can buy goji berries at your local Asian stores or find them in any health food store, but more expensive.
Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.
Side effects/medical safety
Because of the high medicinal potency of this fruit (high in fibre…) use goji berries in moderation; especially when eating for the first time, use only 1-2 tbsp and rehydrate them in water (easier to digest for people with sensitive stomach)
If you take any medication (for diabetes, blood pressure ….) consult with your doctor because goji berries can possibly cause drug-herb interaction.
Goji berries are a member of the nightshade family, so if you are sensitive to nightshades, consider limiting your intake of goji berries –http://blog.aoma.edu/blog/bid/307565/Chinese-Herbalism-Goji-Berries
Conclusion
These small, brightly coloured berries are clearly a powerhouse of nutrients.
As it strengthens our immune system, it’s antimicrobial, anti-fungal, antibacterial, improves memory and brain health, makes it a fantastic addition to our children’s daily nutrition and supporting their overall health and learning.
Did you try goji berries? How do you eat them? Share your comments
