The Amazing Benefits of Goji Berry Tea - According to Science
Goji berries have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Goji berries are high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, they could reduce inflammation, help boost your immune system, help improve your mood and they even contain carotenoids that could improve your vision.
The popularity of Goji Berries and Goji Berry tea has grown in recent years tremendously. So here are the top 5 health benefits of Goji berry tea supported by scientific studies.
What are goji berries?
Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are a bright orange-red fruit that come from the Lycium barbarum plant. They have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, and are believed to help people live longer.
Goji berries are full of nutrients, including:
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Zinc
Iron
Selenium
Antioxidants
Carotenoids
Polyphenols
*Based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
These Antioxidants can contribute in the battle against ageing and diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
What is goji berry tea?
Goji berry tea is made by steeping dried goji berries in hot water. It has a mild, slightly sweet taste.
Goji berry tea contains many of the same nutrients and antioxidants as the whole fruit, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals such as zinc, iron, and selenium. The tea may also contain antioxidants and other compounds, such as polysaccharides and betaine, that have been linked to various health benefits.
One study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that drinking goji berry juice for 14 days improved energy levels, reduced fatigue, and improved overall well-being in healthy adults (1).
Another study published in the Journal of Food and Function found that goji berry tea helped reduce blood sugar levels in diabetic mice, suggesting that it may have potential as a natural treatment for diabetes (2).
Health benefits of goji berry tea
Goji berry tea has been associated many health benefits. Here are 5 health benefits of Goji berry tea which are supported by scientific research:
1. Boosts immune system
Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for a healthy immune system. Studies have shown that goji berry extracts can enhance immune function and have a prebiotic and probiotic effect, which help protect the body against infections (3).
2. Protects against oxidative stress
Goji berries are one of the richest sources of antioxidants, which help protect the body against oxidative stress and free radical damage (4). Studies have shown that goji berry extracts can reduce oxidative stress in the body and improve antioxidant enzyme activity (5).
3. Reduces inflammation
Goji berries contain anti-inflammatory compounds, such as polysaccharides and betaine, that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body (6). Studies have suggested that goji berry extracts may have potential as a natural treatment for chronic inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis (7).
4. Improves vision
Goji berries are rich in zeaxanthin, a carotenoid that is essential for eye health. Studies have shown that consuming goji berries or goji berry extracts can increase zeaxanthin levels in the body (8) and therefore support visual function and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (9).
5. Enhances mood and mental well-being
Goji berries contain compounds that may have mood-enhancing effects. Studies have shown that goji berry extracts can improve mental performance, reduce stress, and promote a sense of well-being (10).
How to make goji berry tea
Goji berry tea is easy to make and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Here is a basic recipe for goji berry tea:
Ingredients
1-2 tablespoons of dried goji berries
2 cups of water
How to prepare
Rinse the dried goji berries in cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
Place the goji berries in your teapot.
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and pour it over the goji berries.
Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes, or until the goji berries are plump and tender.
Strain the tea into a cup or a mug and discard the goji berries.
You can also adjust it to jour taste by adding honey, lemon or other herbs and spices, such as ginger or cinnamon.
Contraindications and Considerations
Goji berries contain compounds that may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and high blood pressure medications.
Goji berries may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin or aspirin.
Goji berries may also interact with diabetes medications, such as insulin or metformin, and cause a sudden drop in blood sugar levels.
Goji berries may lower blood pressure, so if you are taking medications to control high blood pressure, such as ACE inhibitors or diuretics, you should talk to your healthcare provider before adding goji berry tea to your diet to avoid any potential interactions.
It is important to note that this information is based on very limited research and may not apply to everyone. Also there may be other medications or health conditions that could interact with goji berry tea.
How do Goji berries compare to other superfoods?
Comparison of goji berries to other superfoods
Note: The nutrient content of superfoods may vary depending on the source and how they are prepared.
Key takeaways:
Goji berries are:
High in antioxidants
Anti-inflammatory
May boost the immune system
May improve vision
May improve mood
It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before using goji berry tea for medicinal purposes, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication.