Goji Berry

Goji Berries have been used in Tibet for at least 1,700 years. Tibetan Medicine includes these berries in the treatment of kidney and liver problems. They are also used in Tibet to lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and cleanse the blood. Goji Berries have a long history of use in the treatment of eye problems, skin rashes, psoriasis, allergies, insomnia, chronic liver disease, diabetes and tuberculosis. Goji Berries are used by the people of Tibet to increase longevity and as a general health strengthening tonic.

The Goji berries are incredibly juicy and sweet and taste somewhat like a cross between a cranberry and a cherry
Every part of the goji plant can be used for its health benefits. The bright red fruit is tasty fresh, dried, or juiced. The leaves make excellent tea and both the leaves and stems produce oil.
In its dried state the Goji berry is a fruit about the same size as a raisin.
The berries are never touched by hand as they will oxidize and turn black if touched while fresh. They are shaken onto mats, then processed into a juice or dried and packed.

Studies show us some of the amazing goodness of Goji…

1. Contains 19 Amino acids (six times higher than bee pollen)- the building blocks of protein- including all eight that are essential for life.

2. Contains 21 trace minerals, including germanium, an anti-cancer trace mineral rarely found in foods.

3. These berries are 13% protein, that's higher than whole wheat!

4. Contains a complete spectrum of antioxidant carotenoids, including beta-carotene (a better source than even carrots) and Zeaxanthin (protects the eyes).Goji berries are the richest source of carotenoids of ALL known foods. It is quite possibly the highest antioxidant food on earth.

5.Contains 500 times more Vitamin C by weight than oranges!.

6.Contains B-Complex vitamins, necessary for converting food into energy.

7.Contains Vitamin E (very rarely found in fruits, only in grains and seeds)

8.Contains Beta-Sitosterol, an anti-inflammatory agent. Beta-sitosterol also lowers cholesterol and has been used to treat sexual impotence and prostrate enlargement.

9.Contains essential fatty acids, which are required for the body's production of hormones and for the smooth functioning of the brain and nervous system.

10. Contains Cyperone, a sesquiterpene that benefits the heart and blood pressure, alleviates menstrual discomfort, and has been used in the treatment of cervical cancer.

11. Contains Solavetivone, a powerful anti-fungal and anti-bacterial compound.

12. Contains Physalin, a natural compound that is active against all major types of leukaemia. It has been shown to increase splenic natural killer cell activity in normal and tumour-bearing mice, with broad spectrum anti-cancer effect. It has also been used in the treatment for hepatitis b.

13.Contains Betaine, which is used by the liver to produce Choline, a compound that calms the nervousness, enhances memory, promotes muscle growth, and protects against fatty liver disease. Betaine also provides methyl groups in the body's energy reactions and can help reduce levels of homocysteine, a prime risk factor in heart disease. It also protects DNA.

For more information on the science of goji, you can go to the US national library of medicine and the national institute of health - pubmed.com and search for ‘Lycium barbarum’.