Have you had your goji berries today? Personally, I love adding 1-2 tablespoons of dried goji berries to power up my morning smoothies. Natively grown in central China, this reddish-orange fruit commonly referred to as the goji berry is actually the wolfberry, Lycium barbarum.

Packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene and lycopene, goji berries continue to gain notoriety in the super foods category. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, goji berries are nourishing to the liver and kidneys, moistening to the lungs, and supplement the yin. Typical historical include supporting longevity, dry skin, dizziness, diminished sexual desire, low back pain and chronic dry cough. Some animal studies have shown immune-boosting effects of goji berries, likely attributed to their high antioxidant content. The dried berries and root bark contain the active constituents.

Many of the highly touted health claims for goji berries (use in cancer, diabetes, arthritis, digestive problems, and weight loss) have yet to be proven by scientific studies in peer-reviewed journals According to a February 2008 article in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry, more forums to discuss the latest scientific research on the chemistry and biological and physiological functions of "super foods", including goji berries, are necessary. Goji berries can be consumed raw, in teas, tinctures, and in juices. While this is certainly a fruit with significant nutritional value, it can come at a premium price. Please feel free to share your experiences with goji berries, especially any suggestions for healthy treats with them…

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