Goji or goji berry is the trade name for the berry of the common wolfberry ( Lycium barbarum ) and Chinese wolfberry (Lycium chinense ).
It comes in the form of a small orange berry, elongated, with a slightly sweet flavor. It is granted in Asia exceptional medicinal virtues linked to the quest for Taoist immortality and it is often marketed in dried form or in the form of juice (generally mixed with other fruit juices).
The name “goji” was made in 1973 by a North American ethnobotanist, Bradley Dobos, from the local Himalayan dialects of 枸杞 “gǒuqǐ”, the Chinese name; the bay is called 枸杞 子 “gǒuqǐzǐ” in Chinese.
Properties of dried Goji berries
Goji: a major source of antioxidants
It seems that the harsh climate of the Himalayan mountains, where Goji berries were traditionally grown, is partly responsible for its richness in nutrients. This case can be compared to American blueberries, very rich in antioxidants , which come from the hostile climate of Alaska. Research on these blueberries has shown the link between the harsh climate and the level of antioxidants in the fruit.
Medicinal plants that receive all the nutrients essential for their health appear to manufacture more antioxidants when they have to protect themselves from harsh environments.
As a true Superfruit, Goji has a richer than average nutritional composition.
The goji berry is a small Tibetan red berry from the peaks of the Himalayas where it is known as the "plant of happiness". They are very popular in Asia, especially by Tibetans.
It is possible to extract a Goji juice which would contain 19 amino acids, 21 trace elements, vitamins C and E, as well as vitamins B1, B2, B6, essential fatty acids, polysaccharides and beta sitosterol.
Prevents degeneration of the immune system
Goji is one of the only plants in the world containing an anticancer metalloid: germanium .
The polysaccharides in goji berries can stop genetic mutations that can destroy the immune system .
Detoxifies the body
Goji can be a particularly effective supplement for preventing liver failure. This property is very important because the liver is the body's main detoxifying organ.
Lowers cholesterol levels
Goji contains beta-sitosterol, known to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. The flavonoids contained in goji promote the opening of the arteries and their proper functioning.
Balances blood sugar levels
For several years, Chinese medicine has recommended goji to rebalance blood sugar levels. Its polysaccharides improve the metabolism of carbohydrates and insulin. Goji also contains betaine, which can prevent fatty liver disease and vascular problems, which are common in diabetics.
Composition of dried Goji berries
Goji contains:
- 22 polysaccharides, four of which are not found in any other plant and which help balance the body's functions.
- Amino acids, eight of which are essential, such as isoleucine and tryptophan;
- Essential fatty acids, essential for the brain and the nervous system, including linoleic acid;
- Minerals and trace elements, including germanium (rarely present in food), which is beneficial for well-being;
- A complete line of Carotenoids (including beta carotene, zeaxanthin and lutein), powerful antioxidants that strengthen the immune system ;
- A high concentration of vitamins B1, B2 and B6.
- Vitamin C (5 times more than an orange for the same weight);
- Vitamin E, betaine, which promotes the proper functioning of the liver, protects DNA and improves memory;
- Beta-sitosterol, cyperone, physaline, scopoletin ...
Dosage of dried Goji berries
Consume 2 teaspoons of goji berries per day. A 350 gr sachet contains approximately 45 teaspoons of goji berries.
Botanical Description of Dried Goji Berries
Goji berries, a Himalayan fruit, is a small and discreet red fruit, resembling an elongated cherry.
We do not export fresh fruit, but rather dried. The berries are bright red and their taste resembles a pleasant blend of cherry, raspberry and date. Goji grows on Goji vines often exceeding 20 meters in length.
Seeing that the Himalayans lived longer (easily up to 100 years) and healthier than them, the Chinese became interested in what they ate. This is how they discovered the Goji. Several centuries before our era, they began to cultivate it intensively, to benefit from its benefits.
Precautions with Dried Goji Berries
- It should be adhered to the prescribed doses and not administered to children under 6 years of age.
- No contraindications reported to date.
- No side effects reported to date.
- No drug interactions reported to date.
Boost the body to avoid viruses
In winter, the body is tired, the immune defenses are weakened and epidemics are numerous. Now is the time to give the body a boost to help it resist seasonal viruses.
There are 4 essential natural ingredients to fight against viruses:
Natural vitamin C : the best ally against chronic fatigue, acerola contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system
Ginseng : invigorating plant par excellence, it fights physical and mental fatigue and stimulates the immune system
Thyme : it is an antiviral, natural antioxidant, it relieves inflammation of the throat
Eucalyptus : this plant is a powerful antiseptic for the respiratory tract.