Lycium chinensis
Goji berries are adaptogenic berries that truly are SUPER. They are super anti-inflammatory, super nutritive and super strengthening.
Goji berries, also known as lycium fruit are native to northern China. Lycium is a woody shrub that grows to be 1-3 meters tall. It is the mature berry that is harvested and consumed as food and medicine. This plant is part of the Solanaceae family of plants, the family that is also known as the nightshade family (which also includes peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, etc.). Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, these super berries were used to nourish Liver Qi, Kidney Qi, vital essence and blood.
Goji Berry is a key ingredient in our endurance building herbal powder: Power Hour for numerous reasons... Let's take a look:
1. It's A Nutritive Tonic*
Goji berries are packed with nutrients!! They contain high amounts of polysaccharides, carotenoids (SUPER antioxidants). Goji berries also contain avitamins B1 & a small amount of B12, betain, beta-sitoterol, and Vitamin C. (Yance)
2. It's a Connective Tissue Strengthener*
Goji berries are full of carotenoids and flavonoids that help support eye health and vision through strengthening and stabilizing capillaries. These antioxidants also help to strengthen capillaries, veins and arteries throughout the entire body. These SUPER berries can also be consumed regularly to strengthen weak muscles and ligaments. (Winston)
3. It Improves Overall Physical Adaptability*
As an adaptogen, goji improves nonspecific regulation of the endocrine and nervous system. This, in turn regulates stress hormones and supports the body in strenuous physical activity. On top of that, Goji is known to promote a healthy cardiovascular system by strengthening blood flow through stabilization of connective cardiovascular tissues.
4. It's an Effective Immune Tonic*
A protein complex naturally occurring in Lycium has been studied and, according to Donald Yance, "may induce immune responses and possess potential therapeutic efficacy in cancer treatment." They are also known to enhance nonspecific immunity, which classifies them as an adaptogen.
Goji is also a great part in an herbal blend to support dry cough as it is a moistening herb and can help relieve lung dryness. (Winston).
Eating about a handful of goji berries a day, or enjoying a good dose of it through our Power Hour, will also help support healthy gut flora, balanced cholesterol levels, and support blood sugar regulation.
As you may have collected while reading this, Goji Berry can be an amazing addition to just about anyone's daily routine, further, it can highly benefit athletes and those who push themselves to their physical limits!
Now it's your turn, give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!
Sending BIG Love,
Joey
Resources:
https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/shop-products/new-products/b4-adaptogens-herbs-for-strength-stamina
Hoffmann, David, 1951-, Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, Vt.: Healing Arts Press, 2003.
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