Evidence supporting the use of: Goji
For the health condition: Convalescence
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Goji berries (Lycium barbarum), also known as wolfberries, have a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where they are regarded as a tonic for promoting vitality and recovery, particularly during convalescence (the recovery period after illness). In TCM, goji berries are believed to nourish the liver and kidneys, enrich the yin, and improve overall strength and well-being. Traditional texts and herbal compendia often recommend goji for individuals who are weakened or recovering from chronic illness, citing its ability to "tonify qi" (vital energy) and "replenish blood".
From a scientific standpoint, goji berries are rich in nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, polysaccharides, and antioxidants, which theoretically could help support the body during recovery. Some animal studies and limited human trials suggest possible immune-enhancing and antioxidant effects, but there is a lack of robust clinical evidence specifically evaluating goji berries for convalescence in humans. The majority of support for this use is thus rooted in tradition rather than validated by modern clinical research. While goji berries are generally safe and nutritious, their use during convalescence should not replace standard medical care. More rigorous scientific studies are needed to clarify their efficacy for supporting recovery after illness.
Other ingredients used for Convalescence
aloe veraalpha-ketoglutarate (AKG)
amino acids
arabinogalactan
astaxanthin
astragalus
Beta-Glucan
bilberry
black currant
bovine
bovine liver
branched-chain amino acids
bupleurum falcatum
cat's claw
caterpillar mushroom
chlorella
colostrum
cordyceps
turmeric
elderberry
eleuthero
fish protein
garlic bulb
ginger
gotu kola
grape
green tea
iron
l-alanyl-l-glutamine
l-cysteine
l-glutamine
l-glycine
lactoferrin
lentinula edodes mycelia
licorice root
liquid liver fractions
milk
ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate
pollen
pomegranate
protein
pyrroloquinoline disodium salt
quail egg
reishi mushroom
shiitake mushroom
spirulina
vitamin C
vitamin D
whey protein
zinc
jiaogulan
bee pollen
lingzhi
haliotis
cistanche
ganoderma
royal jelly
fulvic acid
goji berry
algae
Alcohol
Animal Tissue
Antler
Ambergris
Auricularia
Albumin
Andrographis
Algal protein
Alkylglycerols
Animal protein
Butter
Blackthorn
Beef Protein
Beef
Beef liver
Bone Marrow
Bovine Protein
Bacteria
BCAA
Bupleurum
Bird's nest
Chinese Mountain Ant
Coriolus mushroom
Codonopsis
Chinese Pond Turtle
Centella asiatica
Chicken
Dialyzable Leukocyte Extract
D-Ribose
Dipeptide
Egg
Elk antler
Euglena gracilis
Egg protein
Milk Protein
Mistletoe
Quinoa Protein
Other health conditions supported by Goji
Aging (prevention)Anemia
Arthritis
Asthma
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Constipation (adults)
Convalescence
Diabetes
Digestion (poor)
Fatigue
Free Radical Damage
Gastritis
Glaucoma
Heart (weakness)
Hypertension
Inflammation
Memory and Brain Function
Menopause
Osteoporosis
Sleep (restless and disturbed)
Stress
Triglycerides (high)
Wounds and Sores