Wolfberry fruit species are found in north and south China and come from the plant families that include morning glory and sweet potato, plus tomato, eggplant, chili pepper and tobacco. Though the plant group (Solanales) includes many food plants, some, such as the belladonna, are poisonous. Wolfberry fruit, also known as goji, is dried and used as an herb.
Appearance
Described as a deciduous woody perennial, the leaves of the wolfberry form in one of two ways. They grow either in groups up to three or alternately up the stem. Besides growing in one of two ways, they also appear one of two ways: long and narrow or egg-shaped, with either blunt or rounded tips. Light purple or lavender flowers, with five or six lobes, form before producing bright-orange red berries that ripen from July to October depending on the location. The tiny yellow seeds inside the berries number between 10 and 60. When ripe, the fruit is picked and dried until the skin shrinks. It is then placed in strong sunlight until the outside is crusted while the inside pulp remains soft.
Also known as
Wolfberry when grown for the commercial market is known as goji berry. The names Tibetan goji and Himalayan goji are not indicative of their geographic origins. Other names include mede berry, barbary matrimony vine, Chinese wolfberry, red medlar or bocksdorn.
In China
For 2000 years, the wolfberry has been used as a medicine in Eastern Asia and China. It is still a popular fruit today, eaten as a dried fruit or made into wolfberry juice. They believe it to be a natural food that is nutrient-rich.
Health Benefits
It is believed that the medicinal qualities of the fruit, along with other herbs, have positive effects on the kidneys and liver, plus improve vision and maintain the moist lining of the lungs. Dedicated users indicate that once steamed and then chewed and eaten, it can help diabetes. The nutrients aid cells in enriching the body's defense system.
Is it safe?
There are several warnings or precautions that should be noted in regard to wolfberry/goji. Because goji is believed to lower blood pressure, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting may occur in someone who already has low blood pressure. Diabetics should be aware that it can adversely affect blood sugar levels. Goji may interact with other drugs being taken. Wolfberry (goji) does not fall under the strict regulations of prescription or non-prescription drugs, so its strength or effectiveness are not guaranteed.
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