Goji berries - Nature Cures®

Also known as Lycium barbarum.

Goji berries are a member of the nightshade family (Solonaceae), which refers to many common vegetables such as aubergine (egg plant), peppers, potatoes, sweet potatoes and tomatoes, as well as some poisonous plants like belladonna and deadly nightshade.

Native to the Himalayan Mountains of Tibet and Mongolia, goji berries have the highest concentration of protein of any fruit. They are a very rich source of vitamin C, contain more carotenoids than any other food, have twenty-one trace minerals and are high in fibre.

Goji berries contain 15 times the amount of iron found in spinach, as well as calcium, zinc, selenium and many other important trace minerals.

They also contain natural anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal compounds such as beta-sitosterol. They are also a good source of betaine, beta-carotene, melatonin, vitamin B3 (niacin) and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine).

How are goji berries good for the body?

Goji berries are known to act positively on the kidneys and liver and can help to relieve lower back pain. They also can relieve dizziness and improve eyesight.

Their rich nutrient content assists the immune system and can help to prevent cancer and heart disease.

Goji berries contain melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, which may contribute to better sleep quality.

They can also help to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

How are goji berries consumed?

They are most often consumed raw, made into a tea or extract, or as an ingredient in soups. and are commonly available in dried form and make a great snack eaten as is or added to muesli or oatmeal.

They can also be soaked for a couple of hours in enough water to cover them. Then the soak water can be drained off and makes a delicious drink or both water and berries added to smoothies.

WARNING: Avoid goji berries if taking medication for diabetes, high blood pressure or anti-coagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin or aspirin.

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