Goji Berry - The Secret of Longevity from China

In short: Goji berries (Lycium barbarum) are dried fruits rich in vitamin C, beta-carotene, zeaxanthin and polysaccharides that act as antioxidants against free radicals. A common daily amount is 10-30 g of dried berries, roughly 1-3 tablespoons. People on blood thinners or diabetes medication should consult a doctor before regular use.

Chinese Wolfberry (lat. Lycium chinense) is a shrub from the nightshade family (lat. Solanaceae) of plants. The fruits of the wolfberry, as well as the entire shrub, are also known as "Wolfberry" or "Goji berry". Wolfberry originates from Asia, being most widespread in the southern parts of China. Here it grows in the fertile soil of the Himalayan foothills. It's no wonder that the fruits have become one of the favorite herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. The Chinese have known the beneficial effects of wolfberry for a very long time and know how to use them properly. In our region grows Lycium barbarum, which is often planted in hedges. It grows wild around railway tracks. Unfortunately, this species does not have the same beneficial effects as Chinese wolfberry.

What does this wonder from China look like?

Chinese wolfberry shrubs can grow up to 3 meters in height. The leaves are oval to lanceolate in shape with a length of about 7 cm. Wolfberry flowers are purple in color, blooming from June to September. The fruits, for which wolfberry is most commonly grown, are orange-red oblong berries, about 1-2 cm long, which ripen from August to October, always depending on the current weather development.

Growing Chinese Wolfberry

Growing goji wolfberry shrubs is not at all complicated. An advantage is full frost resistance in our conditions, so there are no worries about proper overwintering. It is possible to grow only one plant, because the flowers are hermaphroditic and are therefore self-pollinating. Wolfberry is not very demanding on soil quality, it can grow successfully even in poor soils. Of course, when planted in quality nutritious soil it will grow better and reward you with a larger amount of fruit. Ideal is light sandy-loamy soil. Plant Chinese wolfberry in a warmer sunny location. When planting, don't forget that individual branches of wolfberry spread out in width, so leave enough space around the shrub. To limit weed growth under the overhanging branches, you can sprinkle the area around the trunk with mulch bark. The goji wolfberry shrub can be shaped, so you can create a beautiful focal point for your garden from it. To form a tree shape, it is necessary to start shaping the wolfberry shrub as early as possible. The basis for shaping is the selection of 3-5 branches growing evenly around the trunk. These branches will form the basis of the future crown. Trimming the selected branches to a length of about 10-20 cm will encourage further branching. Shortening the branches will result in a temporary absence of fruit on these branches, so several unshortened branches are left on which the fruit will ripen. In the next year of cultivation, it is advisable to select the strongest shoot, which will be an extension of the trunk. Shorten this shoot slightly. Fruits will grow on side branches, of which it is advisable to leave 4-5. Cut off the other shoots so that the plant does not exhaust itself unnecessarily. In subsequent years of shaping, the procedure is identical.

Health Benefits of Goji Berry

Goji berries have beneficial effects on human health. They are even considered a life-extending plant that slows down aging. All parts of the plant are used, from roots, bark, and leaves to the most commonly used fruits. Goji berries contain large amounts of vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C is present, from the B group there are vitamins B1, B2, B6, and E. The content of amino acids is also significant, with as many as 18 types and 21 types of trace elements, such as iron, calcium, selenium, and phosphorus. Goji berries are the richest source of carotenoids. Moreover, they are powerful antioxidants that can neutralize free radicals, thereby preventing cell damage and organism aging. Consuming goji berries strengthens immunity, lowers blood pressure, and improves vision. Middle-aged men will especially appreciate goji berries as they act as an aphrodisiac. Consuming goji berries can speed up the treatment of coughs and reduce the risk of cancer. Drinking tea made from goji berries supports healthy liver and kidney function, and also stimulates the production of white and red blood cells. People experiencing dizziness and suffering from tinnitus can use goji berries to alleviate their symptoms.

How to Prepare Goji Berries?

Goji berries can be consumed both raw and dried. Their taste is sweet and sour. They most closely resemble cranberries, apples, and rose hips. Goji berries can be used just like raisins when preparing sweet dishes. They are often mixed with cereals and eaten with yogurt. You can create a tasty snack by mixing oat flakes, goji berries, nuts, almonds, and raisins. For sweetening, natural cane sugar is the healthiest option. However, goji berries can also be baked with chicken and other meats.

What Amount of Goji Berries Can Be Consumed?

Although this is an almost miraculous plant, it is advisable to consume goji berries in moderation. While adverse effects from overdosing have not been confirmed, more sensitive individuals may experience digestive problems. Larger amounts of goji berries should not be eaten before bedtime, as this could cause insomnia. An appropriate dose for adults that ensures sufficient intake of vitamins and minerals is approximately two handfuls of fresh berries. Children over ten years old can eat the same amount daily. Younger children will need half the dose – i.e., one handful of fresh berries. Do not give goji berries to children younger than one and a half years. The beneficial effects of goji berries are usually noticeable after just a few weeks of use.

Something to Eat with Goji Berries

Apple Dessert - for 4 sweet tooths prepare

50 g dried goji berries

75 dag apples

1 vanilla pudding

1 cup whipping cream

baby biscuits

cinnamon

lemon zest

cane sugar (or regular sugar)

How to prepare the apple dessert?

First, peel the apples, cut them and remove the cores, then cook them together with cinnamon and lemon zest until soft. Add sugar to taste. After cooking, drain the excess juice from the apples. Don't throw the juice away - on the contrary, let it cool down, you'll use it instead of milk to prepare the pudding. Prepare the pudding in the usual way, but use the prepared juice instead of milk. Add the cooked apples and physalis to the pudding and cook briefly. Pour the finished pudding into bowls lined with sponge fingers. You can decorate the dessert with whipped cream, a few physalis fruits and mint leaves. After all, the dish must taste good and look good too.

Bon appétit! :)