Goji berry is also known through the name of wolfberry, that’s grown within the Himalayas. Goji berries and lycium bark play important roles in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) , where they are believed to enhance immune system function, protect the liver and improve circulation, help eyesight, among other effects. Referenced in ancient Asian medical texts and known by the Latin term lyceum barbarum, the Tibetan berry is considered by researchers to be the most potent goji on the planet.
Why do People Use Goji Berry?
• Higher antioxidant levels
• Fight free-radical damage
• Improve your immune system
• Boost your energy levels and stamina
• Improved athletic performance
• Better quality of sleep
• Maintains a healthy blood pressure
• Supports healthy liver function.
Immune System
Goji berry contain compounds known as Lycium barbarum polysaccharides, usually referred to as polysaccharides. Responsible for controlling the body’s defense system, the goji berry’s 4 special polysaccharides help to improve the immune system. Research has shown that these compounds improve the body’s ability to resist disease. In some study groups with elderly people the goji berry was given once a day for 3 weeks, very effective results were experienced and 67% of the patients T cell transformation functions tripled and the activity of the patients white cell interleukin-2 doubled.
Liver Problems
Several types of phytonutrients in the fruit enhance the health of the liver to detoxify and guard against the organ being damaged by carcinogens and the hepatitis virus. In a study conducted in 2002, found that zeaxanthin from goji berry inhibited hepatic fibrosis, a scarring response to liver damage that can impair liver function. (Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin-March 2002). Some researchers believe that goji berries may be a very good food to prevent liver cancer because it exerts liver protection and anticancer effects at the same time.
Anti-Cancer
Various researchs have shown the goji berry to increase the lymphocyte transformation level and strengthen the macrophage phagocytic function in animals. Contains a compound that is active against all major types of leukaemia called Physalin. It has been shown to increase splenic natural killer cell (NK) activity in normal and tumour-bearing mice, with broad-spectrum anti cancer effect. In one study on a group of cancer patients, the goji triggered an increase in both lymphocyte transformation rate and white blood cell count.
Brain
Goji help protect brain cells from harmful chemical toxins. In addition to antioxidants that protect against free radical damage to the brain, fight narrowing of the arteries that deliver oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. In a study at the “University of Hong Kong“, researchers theorized that since goji extract has anti-aging effects, also has neuroprotective effects against toxins in neurodegenerative diseases, namely Alzheimer’s disease.
Eye Health
Goji are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to strengthen eye health and are also known to contain a high rate of zeaxanthin dipalmitate. Goji berry is one of nature’s richest sources of zeaxanthin. Contains about 100 to 200 mg of zeaxanthin per 100 grams. A diet with increased amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin has been helpful in decreasing the risk of developing age related macular degeneration, the most important reason of blindness and loss of vision in people above the age of 65. In a new laboratory study, this one from Australia’s University of Sydney, researchers found that goji berry extract prevented the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
Ulcer
A stomach ulcer is a general term that includes several other types of ulcers found in the digestive system. Goji berry have the specific anti-inflammatory SOD enzyme that reduces the inflammation caused by ulcers. In addition, SOD plays major role in protecting the body against other diseases. This is very strong free radical fighting antioxidant the body has. Goji may eliminate the need to take anti-inflammatory drugs, which can irritate the digestive tract and cause ulcers.
Weight Loss
For weight loss, goji berries have an important effect on the blood sugar. The goji berry can help aid in weight loss due to its unique molecule polysaccharides which enhance the conversion of food into energy and reduced body weight. In an animal-based study, it was shown that goji polysaccharides enhanced the conversion of food into energy, and reduced body weight.
Goji Juice Dose
2-4 ounces per day for general health. 4-8 ounces per day for extra health support.
Goji Side Effect
Since concentrated goji juice has not been studied in pregnant and nursing women, do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. A possible drug interaction could occur with goji if taken with anticoagulants. Patients taking medications to diabetes must not simultaneously take the goji root bark as well. To avoid these side effects, even though goji is known to be effective and safe, it is recommended that you consult with your physician first.
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