Goji Berry
枸杞子 · Gǒuqǐzǐ
Lycium barbarum
Family: Solanaceae · Part used: Ripe fruit (berry) · Origin: Ningxia (Zhongning), China
Nature
Neutral
Flavor
Sweet
Meridian
Liver, Kidney, Lung
Goji berry is one of the most celebrated tonic herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine, cultivated for over 600 years in the oases of Ningxia. Prized as a yin and blood tonic, it is traditionally used to nourish the liver and kidneys, brighten the eyes, and support healthy aging. Today it is enjoyed worldwide as a superfruit, eaten raw, brewed in teas, or simmered in soups.
🌿 Functions & Actions
- •Nourishes liver and kidney yin and blood
- •Brightens the eyes and benefits vision
- •Moistens the lungs
- •Supports immune function
- •Promotes vitality and healthy aging
📋 Traditional Indications
- •Dizziness and blurred vision
- •Lower back and knee weakness
- •Dry cough from lung yin deficiency
- •Fatigue and general debility
- •Poor night vision
- •Premature graying of hair
📖 Usage & Dosage
10–15 g daily. Eat directly as a snack, steep in hot water for tea, or add to soups, congee, and porridge during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
🍵 Classic Recipes
Goji & Chrysanthemum Tea
Goji 10 g + chrysanthemum 5 g, steeped in hot water for 5 minutes. A classic eye-nourishing infusion.
Eight-Treasure Congee
Goji, red dates, longan, Chinese yam and lotus seed simmered with rice for 40 minutes. A nourishing breakfast tonic.
🔬 Modern Research
Goji berries are exceptionally rich in zeaxanthin, a carotenoid associated with macular health, as well as polysaccharides studied for immune-modulating properties. Clinical trials suggest potential benefits for visual function, feelings of well-being, and antioxidant status.
⚠️ Contraindications
Use with caution during external fevers, acute digestive upset, or spleen-deficiency diarrhea. May interact with warfarin and other anticoagulants.
