Lycium barbarum, also known as goji berry, is a versatile ingredient that can be used both as a medicine and as food. Many people enjoy making tea or soup with goji berries because they not only add flavor but also have various health benefits.
Health Benefits of Goji Berries
1. Liver Protection
The polysaccharides in goji berries have a great protective effect on our liver and kidneys. They are also effective in repairing liver damage.
2. Clearing Heat and Improving Eyesight
Experts suggest that if you experience symptoms such as eye fatigue, dryness, blurred vision, or dizziness, drinking water infused with goji berries can help alleviate these discomforts. Goji berries can also clear heat and reduce liver fire, which is common during hot weather.
3. Beauty and Anti-aging
This is a concern for many women. Regular consumption of goji berries infused in water can delay skin aging and promote longevity.
Common Ways to Use Goji Berries
1. Raw Consumption
Wash goji berries before consuming them directly. Do not consume a large amount at once. It is recommended for healthy adults to consume about 20 grams (approximately 30 berries) per day, chewing them in the morning and evening.
2. Tea Infusion
You can infuse goji berries with chrysanthemum flowers. Take 20 goji berries and a few chrysanthemum flowers, then steep them in boiling water for half an hour before drinking. Do not drink goji berry tea with green tea, as the tannic acid in green tea can affect the efficacy of goji berries by adsorbing trace elements.
3. Alcohol Infusion
Take 100 grams of goji berries, wash them, and put them in a container. Pour an appropriate amount of white wine into the container. Seal the container and store it in a cool, dry place for about a week before drinking. It is recommended to drink it before dinner or before bedtime. Do not consume more than 20 grams each time.
Precautions for Using Goji Berries
Goji berries have a warm and tonifying effect, so they are not suitable for people with colds or fever.
Goji berries have a sweet taste and can be greasy, so they should not be consumed in large quantities by those who have external heat, heavy dampness, loose stools, or abdominal and chest fluid.
Due to the high sugar content in goji berries, diabetic patients should consume them in small doses.
People with excessive stomach fire may experience symptoms such as mouth ulcers, bad breath, sore throat, bleeding, toothache, insomnia, or headache. They should not consume excessive amounts of goji berries.
Due to the high sugar content in goji berries, proper storage is especially important. They should be stored in a sealed package under low-temperature refrigeration, away from light, to prevent the overflow of polysaccharides and the stickiness and oiliness of the appearance, which may decrease their effectiveness.
