All You Should Know About Goji Berries

Grown in Mongolia, Himalayas, Tibet and China, goji berries have continued to form a significant part of traditional Chinese medicine. They are a bit elongated in shape, are reddish in color and are also referred to as wolfberries. These berries are known to possess a plethora of health benefits and you can consume them both in their raw and dried form. These are extremely famous amongst people of all ages across the world. Their beneficial properties have helped a number of people live a healthy life. Some of the major reasons behind the popularity of this fruit are:

The benefits of goji berries are too many to count. These consist of zeaxanthin and beta carotene, which are basically carotenoids. Our body requires carotenoids to improve the eyesight and protect the retina. The onset of macular degeneration and a number of other age-related eye problems is prevented by the presence of these substances. Polysaccharides are also found in goji berries, which stimulate the pituitary glands to release HGH or the Human Growth Hormone. A high ORAC value is also present, which protects cells from oxidation and delays the onset of aging.

This fruit is particularly popular amongst people in the West due to its Viagra-like properties. Men like consuming this fruit as it increases sperm, improves fertility and boosts sexual capabilities. You can also consume this fruit so as to eliminate fatigue and cure headaches and insomnia at the same time.

The presence of beta-sitosterol in goji berries decreases the size of overgrown cells and induces cell suicide or apoptosis of tumor cells, which makes them the perfect treatment for prostate enlargement. Beta-sitosterol is also known to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol level.

As soon as we reach a certain age, our bodies begin to deteriorate. You must use vitamins and other nutrients so as to impede the aging process. Goji berries are rich in antioxidants that slow down the aging process. They additionally comprise vitamins B1, B6, B2, C and E along with amino acids, selenium, zinc, iron, copper, phosphorous, selenium, and calcium.

In China, goji berries are used frequently in cooking. They can be added to rice congee, desserts or mixed with other herbs to make tonic soups. They are considered as a liver and kidney tonic. It is said that they can cleanse the liver, improve the eyesight, strengthen the body and promote longevity.

Getting in touch with a doctor before using goji berries is highly recommended. This is because they might cause adverse effects by interacting with anticoagulant drugs and blood thinners.