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Healing properties of Goji Berries

posted by ChickSpeak
Sunday, November 22, 2009 at 4:28pm CST

Among the fruits that are gaining popularity because of their anti-oxidant and healing properties, there is one that has been a well kept secret. You may have heard of goji berries, especially in the last couple of years. This tart yet tantalizing treat also known as the wolfberry, are grown in Tibet and China and have been used for centuries for medicinal purposes.

Research has shown that eating berries such as blueberries, acai berries, cranberries, strawberries, and cherries offer a wide array of health benefits. According to the American Diabetic Association, antioxidants are dietary materials including some nutrients such as beta carotene, vitamins C, A, and E, magnesium, and selenium, that can prevent damage to the cells in your body and possibly reverse damage that has already been engaged.

Antioxidants work by significantly slowing or preventing the oxidative process which is damage done by oxygen to molecules in your body. This is caused by substances called free radicals that that injure cells and damage DNA. Over a period of time, this damage done to the DNA can cause serious health problems. Eating foods high in antioxidants may also improve immune function and perhaps lower your risk for infection and even types of cancer.

The goji berry is an excellent source of vitamin A which promotes eye health as well as acting as a healing agent for the skin which is especially important this time of year when the air is crisp seems to purge our skin of every bit of moisture.

Unless you find someone who grows berries near you, or you make a trip to the Far East, you will probably not be able to find fresh goji berries. However, like most fruits, you can buy them dried and snack on them. You can also buy the juice, this is more expensive than buying them dried however. It is recommended that you only drink about a shot glass full of the stuff though because it is rather potent, and just that little bit packs a punch of nutrients.

Next time you are at your local health food store and are feeling adventurous, pick up a bottle or a pack of the little red berry that is making a big splash.

Fatima Meadows is student at Appalachian State University. She will try any food once, and has discovered many favorites with that philosophy.

Photo from here.