Goji berry (Lycium barbarum)
Synopsis of goji berry
Goji berry, also known as wolfberry, comes from Lycium barbarum and Lycium chinense, two closely related species native to China, Mongolia, and Tibet. Long revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a tonic for vitality, eyesight, and longevity, goji berries are rich in antioxidants, polysaccharides, vitamins, and carotenoids. They are considered a superfruit in modern wellness circles and are used to support immune health, liver function, eye health, and overall energy.
Nutritional and active compounds:
- Lycium polysaccharides (LBPs) – unique to goji, support immune function and cellular health
- Beta-carotene and zeaxanthin – promote eye health and protect against macular degeneration
- Vitamin C, B2, and iron – support immunity, energy metabolism, and oxygen transport
- Amino acids and trace minerals
- Antioxidants – combat oxidative stress and inflammation
Health benefits and uses:
- Boosts immune function and protects against oxidative damage
- Supports healthy vision, especially in aging eyes, due to high zeaxanthin content
- Nourishes liver and kidney yin in TCM, helping with fatigue, dizziness, and lower back weakness
- Improves skin tone and hydration
- Balances blood sugar and lipid profiles
- Enhances mood, sleep, and overall vitality, particularly in those with chronic fatigue or yin deficiency
Goji berries are consumed as:
- Dried fruit, often eaten raw or added to teas, trail mixes, cereals, and soups
- Juices and concentrates
- Powders or capsules in supplements
- Decoctions and herbal formulas in TCM
Historical Use:
Goji berry has been used for over 2,000 years in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it is classified as sweet, neutral, and nourishing, entering the liver, kidney, and lung meridians. It was traditionally used to tonify blood, support the eyes, moisten the lungs, and strengthen the essence (jing).
Famous TCM texts such as the Shennong Ben Cao Jing described goji as promoting long life and strength. It was commonly included in longevity tonics, blood-nourishing teas, and yin-tonifying soups.
Today, goji berries are featured in superfood formulas, anti-aging products, and immune-boosting supplements, combining ancient tradition with modern nutritional science. Their mild sweetness, adaptogenic properties, and broad systemic benefits make them a versatile and highly regarded functional food and tonic herb.
Goji berry is used for these health conditions
Aging (prevention) (Traditional)
Anemia (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Cirrhosis of the Liver (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Convalescence (Traditional)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Failure to Thrive (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Free Radical Damage (Scientific)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Glaucoma (Traditional)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Memory and Brain Function (Traditional)
Menopause (Traditional)
Osteoporosis (Scientific)
Skin Care (general) (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
goji berry is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Eyes (Scientific)
Immune System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Mitochondria (Scientific)
Skin (Traditional)
