Commonly known as “goji berry” or “wolfberry”, fructus lycii is the more technical term for the small red berries that are packed with nutrients. These berries have been cultivated and consumed for about five thousand years in China. They are notorious for their high nutritious value and are used in traditional Chinese medicine. Beginning in the early 21st century, the United States and other developed countries also began recognizing the berry by its nutrient richness and antioxidant qualities.
Outside their production region, fructus lycii are usually found in their dried form. They usually look like thin raisins and are red or orange in color. Fructus lycii contains a great amount of macronutrients – carbohydrates, protein, fat and dietary fiber – for daily intake. However, they also carry numerous micronutrients, including 18 amino acids, 6 essential vitamins, 33 dietary minerals, calcium, potassium, iron and much more. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed that fructus lycii can enhance the immune system, defend the liver from toxins, boost sperm count, and improve eyesight and circulation, among other benefits. They can be eaten raw, consumed as juice or wine, or brewed into an herbal tea.
Research shows that, when eaten raw, the berries pass through the body undigested because a great amount of stomach acid is needed to break down the berries. Thus, it is more efficient to drink its juices instead. On the other hand, it is believed that the juice of fructus lycii is more beneficial due to its synergistic effects: when combined with vitamins and essential oils of other fruits, the nutrients and antioxidants within the berries themselves are much better absorbed into the body. As a result, fructus lycii juice is often mixed with other fruit juices such as pomegranate or cranberry juice.
References: (1) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolfberry#Nutrient_content
(2) http://www.chinesewolfberry.com/chinese-wolfberry-facts/wolfberry-benefits.html
