Goji berries are the fruit that are obtained from a nightsade family plant growing in many Asian and Mediterranean regions. Goji berry can also be found under the names wolfberry and matrimony vine. Members in the nightsade family include tomatoes, eggplants and potatoes.

The scientific name of the plant is Lycium Barbarum and traditionally, in chinese legends, it is associated with longevity of life. Goji berry is a thick woody vine that grows best in loamy, well drained soil.

Nutritionally, goji berry is a very rich fruit. It is packed with an impressive list of essential nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. The dried fruit, which are most commonly consumed, are packed with carotenoids like B carotene, calories, vitamins and minerals. The carotenoids and the flavonoids present in the fruit offer strong antioxidant protection. Beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, cryptoxanthin and lutein play a vital role in protecting skin and mucus membranes from free racidals. Zeaxanthin is a natural antioxidant which has UV rays filtering actions in the macula lutea in the retina of the eyes. Goji is also rich in compounds that offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer action.

Goji is an astounding source of vitamin A. A hundred grams of dried berry offers 26822 IU of vitamin A, which is approximately 800% of the recommended daily dosage. As such, it is clear that even the smallest amount of gojies is full of the important vitamin A. This vitamin is a crucial antioxidant and is required by the body for maintaining the integrity of the skin and the mucusa, for

insuring good vision and protecting the body againt lung and oral cavity cancers. Goji berries are also have a very good amount of vitamin C, which is one of the most important antioxidant agents there are. Additionally, they are an excellent source of both calcium, iron and they offer a decent amount of protein and dietary fibers.

Furthermore, dried goji berries are adequate in B-complex group vitamins. They hold a good amount of pyridoxine, commonly B6, thiamin, niacin, pantothenic acid and riboflavin. This complex of vitamins acts as cofactors in helping the body metabolize carbonhydrates, protein and fats.

Medicinal Applications:

Goji berries have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine. Chinese physicians advocate different parts of the plant for different seasons.

The berries are commoly used in medicines to cure inflammation, as a blood thinner, as a health tonic for skin and eyes due to the rich amount of vitamin A, to relief nervousness and to improve memory and overall cognitive function.

The fruit, when consumed regualrly, can strengthen the immune system against all types of infections, due to the impressive amount of vitamin C it contains.

Goji berry has the ability to boost metolism, thanks to the plethora of essential compounds it contains.

The many vital compounds in the fruit can help lower blood cholesterol, thus offering protection against cardiovascular diseases.

Goji berries have some diuretic action and the helpful agents they have help cleanse the digestive tract, as well as the urinary tract.

Compouns like B-Carotenes, zeaxanthin and lutein all offer anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer protection.

They can be employed to increase and regulate the levels of libido both in males and females.

Due to the astonishing amount of vitamin A, goji berries can be regularly consumed to prevent diseases like age-related macular disease.

The vitamins minerals and dietary fiber present in goji berries all help support a healthy digestive tract.

Goji berries and their antioxidant and cleansing action can also protect the prostate.

As a good stimulant, goji berries can protect against cognitive diseases like Alzheimer's.

This is to inform you that we are not doctors. What is written above has a simple character and in no way replaces medical application. Always consult your doctor about your health issues.