Black goji berry is a precious medicinal herb, and there are many counterfeit black goji berries in the market. Most of these counterfeits are made from white thorn fruit. So, what are the differences between white thorn fruit and black goji berry? And what are the taboos of drinking black goji berry infused water?
Differences between White Thorn Fruit and Black Goji Berry
Appearance
Black goji berry is oval-shaped and resembles a kidney. When dried, the stem of black goji berry stands upright, and after removing it, there is a round, white ring. White thorn fruit is elongated and generally has no stem. After removing the stem, the edge turns yellow and is not smooth.
Texture
Dried black goji berry has a dry texture and can be easily crushed into powder by hand. White thorn fruit contains more sugar, so dried white thorn fruit feels meatier when squeezed by hand.
Taste
Black goji berry has a faint grassy aroma and tastes slightly sweet. White thorn fruit has a higher sugar content, so its taste is slightly sweeter. If black goji berry tastes very sweet, it is likely to be replaced by white thorn fruit.
Seeds
The number of seeds is the simplest and most direct way to distinguish black goji berry from white thorn fruit. Black goji berry has about ten small seeds, which resemble chili seeds. White thorn fruit has a single core seed, which is very easy to distinguish.
What color is black goji berry infused water?
Black goji berry contains a large amount of anthocyanins, which are water-soluble pigments. They appear purple in acidic water and blue in alkaline water. Therefore, black goji berry infused water is usually in shades of purple or blue. The color can also be affected by the water temperature, as anthocyanins can be destroyed by high temperatures. If black goji berry is infused with boiling water, it may have no color or turn brown.
How many black goji berries should be used for making infused water?
Around 10-20 berries.
Black goji berry contains various components such as vitamins, proteins, anthocyanins, amino acids, organic acids, and minerals. It has the effects of nourishing the liver and kidneys, nourishing the kidneys and essence, and nourishing the blood and calming the mind. Black goji berry is also rich in anthocyanins, which can improve immunity, slow down aging, and improve sleep quality. Generally, 10-20 black goji berries are sufficient for making infused water, but this can be adjusted according to individual constitution.
Who should not consume black goji berry?
People with a hot constitution
Black goji berry is a precious natural tonic that has good nourishing effects and can warm the body. Consumption by individuals with a hot constitution may cause discomfort, such as nosebleeds, red and swollen eyes, and other symptoms of excessive internal heat.
People with cold or fever
Common symptoms of a cold include dizziness, headache, nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. When the body has a fever due to a cold, it is not suitable to consume black goji berry, as it may worsen the condition due to its warming properties.
People with diarrhea
Black goji berry has the effects of nourishing the liver and kidneys, replenishing blood, and calming the mind. It contains abundant nutrients and has high medicinal value. It is suitable for symptoms such as weak lower back and knees, dizziness, and blurred vision. Consumption by individuals with weak constitution and diarrhea may worsen the symptoms and hinder recovery. Therefore, people with diarrhea should avoid consuming black goji berry.
Tips for drinking black goji berry infused water
1. Avoid excessive consumption
Black goji berry has a neutral nature and a sweet taste. It has beneficial effects on the body when consumed in moderate amounts. However, excessive consumption should be avoided to prevent symptoms of excessive internal heat, such as nosebleeds and red, swollen eyes.
2. Avoid drinking with green tea
Black goji berry should not be infused together with green tea, as green tea contains a significant amount of tannic acid, which has a constricting effect. It may absorb trace elements from black goji berry, forming indigestible substances.
3. Avoid using boiling water for infusion
Black goji berry contains abundant anthocyanins, which can be destroyed by high temperatures. Therefore, it is not recommended to use boiling water for infusion. Generally, a water temperature of 40-60 degrees Celsius is most suitable for making black goji berry infused water.
