Goji berries have long been regarded as precious ingredients with both medicinal and nutritional properties, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and daily diet. According to traditional medical theory, goji berries have various functions and effects, mainly manifested in the following aspects:
1
Benefits and Functions of Goji Berries
Nourishing the Kidneys and Liver
Goji berries have a sweet taste and neutral property, and they enter the liver and kidney meridians. They can nourish the liver and kidneys, and have a certain improving effect on symptoms caused by liver and kidney yin deficiency, such as soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, dizziness, vertigo, and frequent nocturia.
Moistening the Lungs and Brightening the Eyes
Goji berries have a moisturizing effect on the lungs, relieving lung dryness and cough. Additionally, due to their rich content of beta-carotene, vitamin A, etc., they are believed to have a positive effect on protecting the eyes and improving vision.
Anti-Aging and Immune Regulation
The antioxidant components in goji berries, such as betaine and zeaxanthin, help resist free radicals, delay cell aging, and enhance the immune system function, improving the body’s resistance.
Regulating Blood Sugar and Lipids
Goji berries can help lower blood lipids and blood sugar, providing certain help in preventing and assisting in the treatment of modern civilization diseases like hypertension and diabetes.
Protecting the Reproductive System
Goji berries also have a certain effect on improving sexual function and enhancing fertility. They are believed to enhance gland function and promote the secretion of sex hormones.
Beauty and Skin Care
The antioxidant properties of goji berries can help reduce skin wrinkles and spots, promote skin blood circulation, make the skin glossy and elastic, playing a certain role in beauty and skin care.
2
Best Ways to Consume Goji Berries
There are various ways to consume goji berries, depending on personal taste and needs. Here are some common methods:
Direct Consumption
After washing the goji berries, they can be consumed directly like raisins. This way, their nutritional content can be maximally preserved, but be sure to consume in moderation to avoid overconsumption.
Soaking in Water
Place goji berries in a cup, pour hot water over them, let them sit for a while, and then drink. Goji berry tea has good health-preserving effects and is suitable for daily consumption.
Stewing in Soup or Porridge
Adding an appropriate amount of goji berries to meat stew, chicken stew, porridge, etc., can enhance the taste of the soup or porridge and allow the intake of goji berry nutrients.
Goji Berry Wine
Soak goji berries in white wine or yellow wine for a period of time, making goji berry wine. This kind of wine has good health value and is suitable for moderate consumption.
Goji Berry Paste
Cook the goji berries, mash them, add an appropriate amount of sugar or honey to make goji berry paste. This is a traditional nourishing food suitable for snacking or dessert.
When consuming goji berries, be mindful of not overeating as it may cause discomfort. Additionally, goji berries are mild in nature and suitable for long-term consumption, but individuals with conditions like colds, fever, damp heat in the spleen and stomach should consume in moderation.
3
Precautions When Consuming Goji Berries
Overconsumption
Goji berries contain sugars and various nutrients, excessive consumption may lead to elevated blood sugar or indigestion. It is recommended to keep daily consumption within 15 grams.
Avoid Consumption During Colds or Fever
Goji berries have warm properties, consuming them during colds, fever, or inflammation may worsen the condition.
Avoid Consumption with Green Tea
As goji berries have high vitamin C content, combining them with the tannic acid in green tea may hinder the absorption of vitamin C.
Avoid Consumption with Spicy Foods
Being mild in nature, consuming goji berries with spicy foods may intensify bodily warmth sensation and lead to discomfort.
Consult a Doctor for Pregnant and Nursing Women
Pregnant and nursing women should consult a doctor before consuming goji berries to determine suitability and the appropriate amount to consume.
Avoid Prolonged Soaking in Alcohol
Extended soaking of goji berries in alcohol may produce some harmful substances to the body, it is advisable not to soak for extended periods.
In conclusion, when consuming goji berries, adjust the consumption amount according to individual constitution and health condition, and seek advice from a doctor or nutritionist when necessary.
#WhyAreChinesePeopleSoTired#
