Lycii Berry (Goji Berry)
Also known as Lycium chinese and barbarum Chinese Matrimony-vine, Boxberry, Boxthorn, Wolfberry, and Gou qi-zi.
PLEASE NOTE! "Goji berry" and Lycii berry are virtually the same, with the only discernable difference is that Gojii is usually a high altitude strain of Lycium and is commonly found in the Himalayas, Nepal, Tibet, etc., where as Lycii berry is the more common variety found in lowland areas. For trade purposes they are usually considered the same.
The Goji Berry administered for erection problems, as a tonic for removing toxins, most popular use in chinese medicine is to clear the vision strengthen the kidneys and nourish the liver.
History:
Lycii berry, otherwise known to Chinese herbalists as Goji or Chinese Wolfberry is a bright red, almost chewy berry with a taste very similar to Raisins. It has been used as a general nutrient tonic (Yin tonic) for many years and Chinese medicine refers to it as a "cooling tonic". Not much research has been carried out for this particular botanical and to date there have not been any released notes on possible medicinal contraindications, side effects or potential health hazards (except for those pregnant or nursing). One particular warning that has been issued comes from many traditional Chinese herbalists who suggest that Lycii should never be taken for acute colds or flu, because it will have the tendency to bring a sickness deeper. Constituents Beta-sitosterol, Betaine, Beta-carotene, Niacin, Pyridoxine, and Ascorbic acid
Beneficial Uses:
It was once said by one of our favorite published herbalists that "Wolfberry can make the young wolf out of the old man", because for many years Lycii has been administered for erection problems. In one recent study, results showed that men over 59 who took 2 ounces of Lycii berry each day walked away from a 10 day study having significantly higher levels of testosterone. In addition to its seemingly successful use of erection problems,
Lycii is also widely used as a general health tonic, capable of removing harmful toxins from the body.
The fruit is one of the most popular tonics used in Chinese herbal medicine today and a decoction is typically used to clear the vision, strengthen the kidneys, and nourish the liver.
Whole berries
Whole berries can be eaten raw, as they have a pleasant taste. Or they can be included in food or prepared as a tea.
Contraindications contains betaine, which is an emmenagogue and abortifacient. Avoid using when pregnant or nursing. Chinese herbalists suggest to abstain using it during times of cold and flu.
Return to Bulk Herb Goji Berry
Disclaimer: The information presented herein by Organic Herbs Medicine Cabinet is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider