I've added a new ingredient to my regimen, Himalayan Goji berry juice. There is additional information at The Goji Book. Here are some of the medical facts about Goji:
* Allergies - Drink 2-4 oz. daily
In a study of Goji Berry reported in the Journal of the Beijing Medical University (1992), it was noted that Goji reduced antibodies associated with allergy-type reactions, by promoting CD8(+) T-cells and regulating cytokines. Goji Berry has also been reported to be a useful treatment for psoriasis.
* Anti-Aging - Drink 2-4 oz. daily
Goji's unique LBP polysaccharide complex has been found to be powerful secretagogue (a substance that stimulates the secretion of rejuvenative human growth hormone by the pituitary gland). Zhang (1993) studied the role of Goji's unique LBP polysaccharides in fighting peroxidation, a primary cause of premature cell death. Dr. Zhang and his team measured the changes in the electrical parameters of cell membranes after incubating living cells in a solution containing dangerous free radicals for six hours. They observed that the deadly effects of free radicals on the cells can be prevented and reversed by incubation with LBP polysaccharides.
* Arthritis and Inflammatory Conditions - Drink 4 oz. daily
The inflammatory free radical most often implicated in arthritis is known as the superoxide anion. One study in China found that the ingestion of Goji resulted in a remarkable 40 percent increase of this extremely important anti-inflammatory enzyme.
* Cardiovascular Health - Drink 4 oz. daily
The accumulation of lipid peroxides in the blood can lead to cardiovascular disease, heart attack, atherosclerosis and stroke. Our blood contains the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) to fight against lipid peroxidation, but levels of SOD decrease as we age. In a clinical study, Goji Berry consumption was accompanied by a remarkable 40 percent increase in SOD levels, and a decrease in lipid peroxides of an impressive 65 percent.
* Diabetes (adult-onset) - Drink 2 oz. twice daily
Goji has been used in China for the treatment of adult-onset diabetes for many years, as it is said to balance blood sugar and insulin response.
* Hypertension (high blood pressure) - Drink 3 oz. daily
The effects of Goji polysaccharides (LBP) on endothelial function were observed by Jia YX et al (1998) in China. Their results showed that the increase of blood pressure in the hypertensive rats could be prevented significantly by the treatment with Goji LBP.
* Obesity - Drink 2 oz. in the morning, 2 oz. in the afternoon
The Goji Berry has also been tested as an anti-obesity drug. Patients were given a tea made of the berries each morning and each afternoon. Results were excellent with most patients losing significant weight. In an animal study, it was shown that Goji polysaccharides enhanced the conversion of food into energy, and reduced body weight.
Recent Comments
Clinical Studies Document Results