Herbal Spotlight: Goji Berries

Goji Berries or the wolfberries are the fruit of either Lycium barbarum or Lycium chinense, two closely related species of boxthorn of the nightshade family, Solanaceae. Both species of the Goji Berry are native to Asia and have long been used in Asian cuisine, traditional Chinese, Korean, and Japanese medicine since at least the 3rd century BCE.

The Goji Berry is known for its sweet, slightly sour flavor and characteristically bright red color. Not only are they beautiful and delicious, but they are highly nutritious and an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Goji Berries have been used in traditional medicine to boost immunity and prevent infection, slow signs of aging, maintain eye health, and strengthen the liver, kidneys, and lungs. Goji Berries have shown to increase blood antioxidant levels, which helps to prevent hypopigmentation of the central area of the retina, soften fatty protein deposits under the retina, and protect against macular degeneration. Antioxidants in Goji Berries such as zeaxanthin, are beneficial in protecting the lenses and retinas against damage.

Among the many proponents of Goji Berries and their superfruit abilities to extend life and promote longevity, the most famous is a Chinese man named Li Qing Yuen, so was said to have eaten Goji Berries daily and lived to the age of 256 years old (1677–1933). Li Qing Yuen was a Chinese herbalist, martial artist and tactical advisor. It is said that Li Chin Yuen was skilled in Qigong and worked as an herbalist selling reishi mushroom, goji berries, wild ginseng, gotu kola, and other herbs. He is reported stating that he lived off a diet of the aforementioned herbs and rice wine. Li Qing Yuen died of natural causes on May 6, 1933 in Kai Xian, Sichuan, Republic of China and was survived by his 24th wife. He reportedly had over 200 descendants and 23 wives over 11 generations. Li Qing Yuen’s true date of birth is unconfirmed and gerontologists consider his claims to be a myth. In the Time article, “Tortoise-Pigeon-Dog” from May 1933, Li shared his secret of longevity, “Keep a quiet heart, sit like a tortoise, walk sprightly like a pigeon and sleep like a dog.”

Our Longevity Herbal Tea contains over twenty different vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. This herbal tea features Goji Berries, which are a powerful antioxidant and have adaptogenic properties which help manage the body’s hormonal response to stress, strengthens the immune system and lowers cholesterol. The Goji Berries in Longevity Herbal Tea are complimented by Ashwagandha Root, Cinnamon, Holy Basil Leaf, and Turmeric which help decrease oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and prevent free radical damage that can cause chronic illnesses. Gingko Biloba, Green Tea Leaf, and Sage Leaf balance and enhance the benefits of Goji Berries to protect the cardiovascular system, increasing blood circulation, reducing bad cholesterol and supporting good cholesterol. Longevity Herbal Tea is a well-rounded, supportive tonic to nourish the body and mind by boosting immunity, improving cognition, balancing bodily systems, and reducing stress.