Goji Benefits – An Introduction To The Goji Berry

Also known as Chinese Wolfberry and Lycium Fruit, the Goji berry and it’s inbuilt goji benefits are now considered one of the superberries and indeed one of the top superfoods. It was first cultivated in China over 1000 years ago where the famous life enhancing goji benefits have long been revered. These health benefits have been enjoyed in Tibetan and Himalayan regions for centuries and it is known locally as the “Happy Berry” because of the feeling of well-being it imparts.

Goji benefits have an important role in traditional Chinese medicine. Goji has long been believed to enhance circulation and the immune system, and also boost liver function. Enormous numbers of these berries are now produced each year, marketed under the names Tibetan Goji or Himalayan Goji, for export to the West, where there has been a rapid interest in these superberries not only for their nutritional value but also for their high antioxidant content.

Goji Benefits – Nutritional Value.

Providing approximately 370 calories per 100 gm serving, Goji berries are claimed , by some, to be the most nutritious fruit on earth. They can provide a meal in themselves, consisting of 68% carbohydrate, 12% protein, 10% fat and 10% fiber.

It is easy to appreciate just why there are so many goji benefits when you consider the constituents which make-up the Goji berry which includes a wide range of nutrients, including essential and trace minerals, amino acids, vitamins, unsaturated fatty acids, phytosterols, carotenoids and other antioxidant properties. (Read more about these properties here: Goji Benefits)

Minerals found in Goji berries include calcium, potassium, iron, zinc and selenium.

Goji Benefits – Culinary Uses.

Dried Goji berries taste rather like raisins and can be eaten raw or cooked. Popular ways to eat them include adding to cereals, adding to juices and smoothies and as a tea. Around 20-30gm per day is believed to be enough for best results. Goji juice is also available, and of course, goji benefits can now be obtained in capsule form.