Goji berries have become classified as one of the world’s “super foods”. It is native to Asia and has been used as a medicinal food for thousands of years. It is a deep-red, dried fruit just slightly smaller than a raisin. The Goji berry tastes, to some extent like a cross between a cherry and a cranberry. The polysaccharides are probably the most vital nutrient in goji berries, most notably the lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP). Research reveals that LBP polysaccharides are exceptional sources of the fundamental cell sugars important for proper immune function and intercellular communication.
Goji berries also contain 19 amino acids (including eight essential ones); 21 trace minerals including germanium (an anti-cancer trace mineral rarely found in foods); Vitamin C at higher levels than even those found oranges; Vitamin E (rarely found in fruits, only in grains and seeds); B-complex vitamins, necessary for converting food into energy; essential fatty acids (EFAs), which are required for the body’s production of hormones and for the smooth functioning of the brain and nervous system; Beta-Sitosterol, an anti-inflammatory agent (Beta-Sitosterol also lowers cholesterol and has been used to treat sexual impotence and prostate enlargement); and a complete spectrum of antioxidant carotenoids, including beta-carotene (a better source then even carrots) and zeaxanthin (protects the eyes).
Some of the many known beneficial effects from using goji berries and juice are they can:
1. Strengthen the immune system
2. Increase longevity and protect from premature aging
3. Help prevent cancer and aid remission 1
4. Protect the liver
5. Promotes cardiovascular health
6. Support eye health
7. Maintain healthy blood pressure and blood sugar
8. Stimulate secretion of human growth hormone
9. Support normal kidney function
Packed with many nutrients, goji berries can be added easily to smoothies, salads and soups. In most health food stores, you can find organic goji berries dried and pre-packaged. You should ALWAYS buy organic – when in doubt, don’t buy them. Soaking them in filtered water helps rehydrate them and makes them easy to chew and blend.
Sources:
1. http://europepmc.org/abstract/MED/7720497/reload=0;jsessionid=D7KGSCJKvvbwoUjy2HY5.20
