Lycii
Lycii berries (Lycium barbarum)
Brief Background:
The origins of goji berries (Lycium barbarum and Lycium chinense) are lost in antiquity. They have been consumed as a food and as medicine in Asia for at least 2,000 years. The common name, “wolfberry,” is often used in the scientific literature. There is some controversy as to whether goji is indeed synonymous with wolfberry, and most experts agree that they are similar, but not identical because they are grown in different parts of Asia. However, the health-food industry has adopted the name, “goji,” which may be a simplified pronunciation of the Mandarin name, “gouqi.”
The leaves, roots, and root bark of Lycium species have also been used medicinally. Traditionally, goji berries have been used to support the kidneys and the liver, to protect the eyes, to enhance the immune system, to treat male infertility, and as an antiaging tonic. Goji berries are nutrient-rich and contain significant quantities of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which provides a logical rationale for their antiaging and visual protection applications. A valid topic for further investigation is the potential of goji berry consumption to prevent macular degeneration.
Expert Opinion and Historic Precedent:
The dried ripe fruits of Lycium barbarum L. and Lycium chinense, commonly called goji berry or wolfberry, have been consumed for at least 2,000 years in China and throughout Asia for medicinal purposes and as a functional food. Goji is a 1-2cm-long, bright orange-red ellipsoid berry. Traditionally, goji berry has been used for its antiaging properties, for its beneficial effects on vision, the immune system, the kidneys, and the liver, and as a treatment for respiratory diseases. Lycium barbarum fruits are also used by Chinese physicians to treat infertility in men.
Approximately 70 species of Lycium grow in separate and distinct regions distributed in temperate to subtropical parts of Africa, North America, South America, Eurasia, and Australia. In recent years goji berry and juice products have become increasingly popular in the United States.
Scientists are now investigating the mechanisms of action underlying the physiological properties of goji. Recent research has shown that Lycium barbarum extracts demonstrate antiaging, anticancer, immune-stimulating, and cytoprotective activity. Many of these protective functions may be due to its antioxidant effects.
