Goji berries are the natives of the Himalayas in Tibet and in China. This magical berry has been known to provide solutions to many health problems. It has supreme qualities that can help in achieving longevity and also enhance health. The properties of this berry have been used since centuries to improve many health disorders. In China, India and Tibet, many herbalists have recommended their use in improving the function of the liver and also in strengthening of the eyesight. There have been many other benefits of these berries as well.
Many researches have also demonstrated the usefulness of this berry. According to a study that was published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary medicine in which 35 healthy adults were taken and were then divided in two groups. One group was given the Goji juice and the other a placebo. After two weeks, the experience of the groups was compared. There was a considerable difference in the satisfaction level. About 80% of the individuals on Goji juice showed improved sleep. About 50-60% showed an increased feeling of happiness. Almost half of them showed a considerable increase in the athletic performance. About 50% of the individuals also showed an increase in their energy levels.
Another study demonstrated the effects of Goji berry extracts on diabetic rabbits. The research showed that there was an increase in the HDL and a decrease in the rabbit’s glucose level. One more research conducted in the year 2006, at the School of Food Science and Technology, which was done in the Xingjian Agriculture University tested the anti oxidant property of Goji on mice. These studies showed that the immune function and the anti oxidant enzymes have increased. The polysaccharides neutralized the free radicals.
Another interesting research reported in the Journal of Agriculture and Food chemistry in 2004 was based on the absorbability of vitamin C. This study revealed that the body can absorb more vitamin C intact that means Goji is very easily assimilated in the body and therefore, is highly nutrient effective. There were many researches conducted on the effects of Goji on skin, and it was proving that it shows excellent anti aging effects.
Though few studies are available for reviews, with the increase in popularity more researches will be performed to gauge the potential healing properties of this fruit. It is because of the components of this magical fruit that it has extraordinary properties. These berries have high amounts of beta carotene, lots of vitamins and minerals and are also very rich in fiber and polysaccharides. All these components help in the maintenance of healthy eyesight and also result in an improved bowel movement. Because of the high polysaccharide content, these berries enhance the functioning of the immune system of the body.
These berries are also called as the wolf berry in China and about a handful of these berries must be included in the natural diet. All the above mentioned studies and the magical properties make these berries a super food!!