Goji berries: useful properties and contraindications.

The problems of weight loss, preservation of youth and getting rid of all diseases for many years do not lose their relevance. Every year in the market appear all new "magic remedies", whose manufacturers promise a quick and long-lasting effect, which will be noticeable from the first use. However, most of these remedies can only act according to the "placebo" principle, and in some cases - not only do not help, but also worsen human well-being. Therefore, the problem of finding natural and effective means to improve health and correction of figure flaws in men and women of all ages is very acute.

What goji berries look like and where they grow

They are the fruits of a woody plant, which in their appearance are very similar to the wolf berry. Their color is reddish-orange, their shape is oval, oblong. Also goji can be immediately recognized by its characteristic sweet and spicy flavor. They grow mainly in northern (central) and western China and are exported dried worldwide.

Composition and calories

The berries are used exclusively in dried form. They have a relatively low caloric value: 309 kcal per 100 grams of product.

The composition of the fruit is rich in various vitamins and minerals, in particular beta-carotene, vitamins A, C, B1, PP and H. Also the benefits of goji is due to the presence of potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium and other useful trace elements.

Useful properties of goji berries

General benefits

The results of Chinese medicine research to date prove the presence of just a huge number of beneficial properties. First of all, the use of these fruits helps to normalize the nervous system, which determines their usefulness in the treatment of various neurotic and emotional disorders. Also goji berries are widely used in recipes of traditional medicine as a tonic during the recovery period of the body after a difficult and prolonged colds, or in order to prevent them. These berries help normalize metabolism and treat problems of the gastrointestinal tract, which in turn determines the usefulness of goji as a means of weight loss.

Also, in terms of beauty, the systematic use of berries can improve skin condition (first of all, as part of the complex treatment of acne), reduce blood glucose levels. However, despite the wide variety of beneficial properties of goji, it is important to keep in mind that to date there are no scientific studies in traditional medicine, which would prove or disprove the positive effect of the use of berries.

For women

The benefits of goji berries for women lies in the possibility of using them to correct the figure, reduce pain during premenstrual period and menstruation, as well as to regulate the menstrual cycle. Also, according to Chinese medicine, the moderate use of berries may prevent or even cure infertility through the normalization of hormonal status and stimulation of the ovaries.

Particular attention should be paid to the benefits of goji berries for the skin, which is most important for women who have certain hormonal disorders. Their useful properties in this case are determined by the presence of beta-carotene in the composition of the fruit, which helps to maintain maximum youth, prevents the appearance of expression lines and gives the skin extra shine and radiance. The amino acids that are part of the fruit help to reduce pigmentation in women. Vitamins and trace elements, which are rich in berries, have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, which helps to reduce the number of pimples and prevent the appearance of new ones.

For men

Goji berries - quite an effective treatment for men from infertility, but only as part of a comprehensive therapy. The microelements that are part of the berries, due to their influence on the work of the reproductive organs of men, can significantly speed up the treatment process. Also goji beneficial effect on potency, due to which are often used as an aphrodisiac. First of all, this effect is achieved by normalizing the functions of the adrenal glands, which, in turn, are responsible for male sexual energy.

Also, the systematic use of berries helps to normalize metabolism, stabilize hormone levels (this also affects the skin), improve the emotional state (reduce the severity of signs of anxiety, reduce the degree of mental tension, eliminate symptoms of irritability, etc.).

When pregnant

There is an opinion that goji berries are also very effective to use during pregnancy in order to alleviate the symptoms of toxicity and prevent edema, typical for the last trimester.

Breastfeeding

To date, there are no studies on the benefits and harms of goji berries for women who are still breastfeeding. However, since the fruit is recommended for consumption by expectant mothers, it is probably possible to talk about the benefits of berries during this period.

For children

Most parents dream of finding a miracle cure, thanks to which their children would stop being sick once and for all. Therefore, in search of an effective remedy to strengthen immunity, fight colds and infectious diseases, they buy a huge number of pharmaceutical products, the result of which is either negligible or completely absent. In this case, the effective remedy is goji berries, which due to their composition allow not only to remove the symptoms of colds, but also have a pronounced preventive effect.

Is goji berry tea useful?

When brewing tea with goji berries absolutely all the useful properties of the fruit are preserved, but it is important to follow a number of mandatory recommendations. Goji berries are characterized by almost complete absence of contraindications, but it is important to note some cases in which it is advisable to refuse to take tea with such berries. In particular, tea with goji berries is contraindicated for use:

• with individual intolerance;
• poor blood clotting;
• insomnia;
• high fever;
• While taking anticoagulants.

During the reception of any medications, the presence of gastric or intestinal diseases, as well as heart or vascular abnormalities, it is necessary to consult the attending doctor beforehand on a mandatory basis.

How to brew

There are several popular ways to brew goji berry tea.

1. From 2 to 10 dried berries poured into a teapot or thermos of 0.5 to 1 liter, then pour hot water into the container (under no circumstances should brew berries with boiling water). Insist for half an hour. Only after that, the useful drink will be ready for use 2-3 times during the day.
2. The fruits (in the amount of one tablespoon) pour 400 ml of hot water (under no circumstances can not boil the berries). In order to achieve the effect of weight loss is recommended to use about 200 ml of liquid on an empty stomach and the same amount 10-20 minutes before bedtime. This method is widely popular as a supplement to the main stage of weight loss.
3. An ordinary tea (green or black) is brewed, after which 6-7 berries in dried form are added to the container (kettle or thermos). After that, a person can fully enjoy the extraordinary taste with traditional notes.

How to take goji berries for weight loss

The use of goji berries is widespread among people of all ages, especially women. In order to get rid of excess weight these fruits should be taken as part of dishes or drinks. When choosing berries in this case, you need to pay special attention to several points:

1. When buying a Tibetan plant, it is important to have reliable information, where it came from. Goji berries are now also grown in Spain, but at the same time, in terms of their effectiveness for weight loss, these fruits are significantly losing to those that grow directly in Tibet itself.
2. In order to verify the absence of various side effects from the use of goji berries begin taking the fruit with minimal doses. As you get used to the product, the amount of berries increase.
3. Well-washed dried berries are taken in a dosage of 15 to 45 grams each day as a dried fruit. It is also allowed to brew berries with hot water and use them as an additive to a variety of desserts, cocktails, salads, etc.
4. In order that the effect of weight loss with goji berries was noticeable, it is advisable to change the habitual diet of a person, primarily by eliminating products harmful to a good figure: sweets, fatty, fried and spicy food.
5. The use of goji berries is allowed only in dried form, otherwise there may be various side effects up to the lethal outcome.

According to numerous studies by nutritionists, it is advisable to combine the use of goji berries with a dietary diet. Dried fruits should be eaten daily up to 50 grams for thirty days. If the goal of the person - to lose more than 5 kilograms in one month, then it is advisable to increase the duration of the course by 2-4 times. The full course of weight loss with the help of this dietary product consists of the use of goji berries in similar doses every day, but for six months.

In order to lose more than 5 kilograms in one month, you need to adhere to a strictly regulated scheme of using goji berries in the amount of 50 grams every day. The algorithm of consumption is as follows:

1. The first goji berries (8-11 grams) should be consumed in the morning on an empty stomach, observing the required time interval - no more than 40 minutes before a meal.
2. The next part of the dose is advisable to split throughout the day.
3. It is important to consider that the last intake should be made no later than 17.00 (regardless of the time of the meal).

Medical Uses

Goji berry tea infusion

For many years, the inhabitants of China have been brewing tea with goji fruit and chrysanthemum, which allows to achieve a significant effect not only as part of getting rid of extra pounds, but also to normalize blood pressure (due to the useful trace elements), as well as a means to reduce blood glucose levels. Such tea also allows you to achieve a tonic effect, to give a charge of vivacity to the human body for the day. This tea is brewed from the following products:

• six goji berries;
• One teaspoon of black Ceylon tea (not bagged);
• Chrysanthemum flowers (4-5 pieces).

All elements of the miracle tea are poured with hot water, after which the finished drink is left for half an hour. After this time, the tea is ready for direct consumption. With the amount of these ingredients, the tea is designed for 2-3 drinks, respectively, one brew is enough for the whole day. This drink is an excellent accompaniment to a full breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Also drinking tea with goji berries and chrysanthemum flowers helps to reduce fatigue from physical exertion (for example, in the fitness room).

Porridge with goji berries

This recipe allows you to make a complete breakfast of the familiar porridge and goji berries. Also, the resulting food can be used as a great option for rapid weight loss. The recipe for the delicious porridge is as follows.

One glass of rice is washed (it is desirable to use brown rice in this recipe), after which it is poured into a saucepan, combining it with 5 grams of berries (necessarily in dried form). The resulting mixture is poured with water (2-3 cups of 200 grams in volume) and boiled over low heat. If a person prepares such a breakfast for the purpose of getting rid of extra pounds, it is not recommended to add sugar, salt or oil.

Also a healthy and tasty breakfast can be made from goji berries and everyone's favorite oatmeal. To this end, soak 3 tablespoons of oat flakes, then boil the porridge for a short time over low heat (no more than five minutes). Then about 200 grams of milk (preferably skimmed milk) are poured into a saucepan, 5-7 pieces of goji fruit (necessarily in dried form), half a tablespoon of honey (if necessary, you can not add) are added. The resulting mixture is insisted for a few minutes. After that, a useful and tasty breakfast can be consumed.

Goji berry smoothie

One of today's popular recipes for the use of goji berries by persons who suffer from diabetes of any type is a smoothie made from the fruit of the miracle berry. In order to prepare this delicious and healthy drink, you need to take a small amount of goji fruit (5 to 10 berries), yogurt (preferably without any additives) and blackberry, raspberry and cranberry juice in any proportions (depending on the preferences of the person). Also, if desired, you can add ice to the smoothie. All the ingredients are put in a blender and whipped until smooth. The resulting smoothie can be drunk (if the mass is sufficiently liquid) or eaten with a spoon (if the consistency is thick).

To date, there are also a large number of other recipes for eating goji berries for people who suffer from certain diseases. In particular, these fruits are recommended to eat:

1. To normalize the nervous system, which determines their usefulness in the treatment of various neurotic and emotional disorders.
2. As a strengthening agent during the recovery period of the body after a long cold or in order to prevent them.
3. For normalization of metabolism and treatment of gastrointestinal problems.
4. To relieve symptoms of toxicity in women during pregnancy, etc.

Goji berries in cosmetology

Due to the presence in goji berries a large number of useful trace elements, they are characterized by the presence of active rejuvenating properties. In particular, through the use of goji berries can be made at home quite effective facial masks, having a pronounced anti-aging effect.

Goji berries also contain a large number of minerals, among which zinc, selenium, iodine, iron, calcium are of particular importance in skin care. Due to its composition, the fruit helps to improve skin tone, rejuvenation, prevention of wrinkles, stimulation of collagen production, hydration, nutrition, activation of skin breathing, etc.

Goji is also used in various masks for the hair, allowing to achieve the natural shine and luster of hair, hydration and nutrition.

Recipes for hair and skin masks with goji berries:

1. The powder, which is obtained by systematically grinding dried fruits, is combined with clay (in proportions of one tablespoon each) and diluted with water until a mushy mixture is achieved. The mask helps to lighten pigmented skin areas, shrink pores, neutralize inflammation of different genesis, increase skin tone and reduce its level of oiliness. The resulting mixture is applied to pre-cleaned skin for 30-40 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
2. To purify the face and body skin, a mask prepared as follows shows high efficiency: grind dried goji berries, ground coffee and kefir in equal proportions (kefir can be replaced with nonfat cream if necessary). This mask is used as a scrub no more than two times a week.
3. There is also another popular folk recipe for a rejuvenating mask of goji berries. For its preparation mix (one tablespoon) honey, crushed dried berries, cream. The mixture is mixed with 1 teaspoon of rosehip oil. The resulting mass is applied to the pre-cleaned skin for 20-30 minutes, then rinse with cool water. It is also recommended to apply moisturizing cream after the mask.
4. For the care of combination skin is widely popular with the following recipe for a mask. 10 dry berries are soaked in hot water, then thoroughly crushed. To the resulting mixture add the following ingredients: one teaspoon of honey, 20 to 30 drops of grape seed oil (orange or lemon oil is also suitable), one tablespoon of sour cream, and 5 drops of vitamin E. The resulting mixture is applied to pre-cleaned skin for 40 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
5. Finally, to tighten the pores and reduce inflammation, the following mask with goji berries is made. One egg white is mixed with berry powder (about 2 teaspoons) using a blender. To the resulting mixture add one teaspoon of lemon juice, as well as vitamins A and E in similar proportions. The resulting mixture is well whipped. Also in the absence of allergic reactions to enhance the effect of the mask add 3 drops of essential oil of tea tree (or one teaspoon of aloe). The resulting mixture is applied to pre-cleaned skin for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with cool water.

Harm and contraindications

In addition to the noticeable benefits for the health of the body, the reception of goji fruits can cause some unpleasant side effects. In particular, the excess consumption of goji fruits can lead to a variety of allergic reactions, severe violations of the gastrointestinal tract, high blood pressure and, in severe cases, fatal. However, even the moderate consumption of goji has a number of negative side effects:

1. Strengthening the effects of various medications. The great danger lies in the combination of the use of goji berries with taking anticoagulants, some painkillers and antibiotics of broad spectrum. Berries contribute to their effect, which may cause complications. Also with the constant use of Warfarin, the use of goji berries may cause uncontrolled bleeding. In this regard, the introduction of a supplement (goji fruit) in food is allowed only after the completion of the entire course of treatment.
2. Increased blood pressure. Consumption of goji berries is recommended only for those people who have been diagnosed with the initial stage of hypertension. Trace elements and other substances within the composition of goji berries contribute to the rapid dilation of blood vessels. After a certain time the pressure drops sharply. If a person uses anticoagulants at the same time with goji berries (regardless of the form of use of the latter), then he may have violations of blood viscosity. This condition may cause high blood pressure and the need for emergency medical assistance.
3. The possibility of allergic reactions. When a person is diagnosed with a tolerance disorder of red berries or fruits, then goji fruits are categorically not recommended for eating (there are also restrictions on the use in the form of masks). Like all plants, goji can contribute to the appearance of various allergic reactions. In particular, cases of itching, hives and swelling of the throat have been diagnosed. Serious disorders of the gastrointestinal tract may also be observed.
4. The appearance of insomnia. Taking goji berries (regardless of the form of their use) in the evening may cause a variety of sleep disturbances, including persistent insomnia (which lasts 2 days or more). This is due to the presence in the composition of goji berries a large amount of natural energy, which can cause excessive vigor and hyperactivity. To avoid this unpleasant side effect, it is not recommended to take berries after 5 p.m.
5. Excess selenium. During pregnancy, women are not recommended to take goji berries in pure form (this recommendation does not apply to tea with the fruit in small quantities). Due to the presence of large amounts of selenium in the fruit, taking pure goji berries during pregnancy can have a negative impact on the development of the fetus inside the womb. There is also an increased risk of congenital heart defects or stunted growth. It is also not recommended to consume pure goji berries during breastfeeding because selenium can enter the baby's body through the mother's milk.
6. Gastrointestinal disorders. Excessive consumption of goji berries (more than 1.5 times the normal amount) can lead to bloating. People with digestive system disorders may also manifest other disorders. In particular, it can lead to diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, indigestion, and heartburn.

How to choose and store

It is widely known that in Russia goji fruits are quite difficult to buy. They are almost not grown in our area, or they do not have a set of necessary useful properties.

The price of goji berries nowadays is quite high, it can vary from 30 to 80 dollars per kilo, so in recent years the cases of selling fake products have increased. So anyone who wants to get the real goji berries, with a full range of useful trace elements, should know the basic criteria for the selection and storage of these fruits.

Rules for choosing goji fruits

Given the fact that it is almost impossible to deliver fresh fruits from China to Russia, they are already imported in dried form. In this regard, if a person is offered to buy fresh berries, it indicates an attempt at adulteration. It is important to remember that dried goji berries retain all their useful properties in full.

With the rapid development of technological progress widespread way to purchase goji berries in online stores. When buying goods in this way it is important to pay attention to a few nuances. First of all, the cost of a kilo of goji should not be too low - quality fruits will not be sold for less than 25-30 dollars. Otherwise, we are talking about counterfeit berries. It is also important to read customer reviews, both on the website of the online store itself, and in any search engine, as some providers delete negative comments to maintain the rating.

The place to store the miracle fruit should always remain dry. Also, the fruit is better stored in a cool and dark place. These rules work for both fresh and dried goji berries. Prepared drinks (decoctions) with the fruit should be stored in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze them

Goji berries can be frozen, provided a few rules are followed. First of all, you need to carefully sort out the fruits and inspect them for any suspicious external defects. After that, send the selected berries to the freezer in a cellophane bag.

How to dry them

Since real goji berries are shipped from China to Russia already in dried form, buying fresh ones is fraught with the risk of buying low-quality products.

How to eat goji berries correctly

There are several ways and forms of eating goji berries. First of all, dried fruits are eaten on their own as dried fruit, it is also allowed to use them in the form of teas and various decoctions and as a useful additive for a variety of dishes. However, it is important to take into account one nuance - if a person has never tried goji berries before, then initially you should try to eat a few pieces and see how the body reacts. If after a few days there are no various side effects, then you can use them in the most convenient way and in the dosages specified in the recipes.

How much can be eaten per day

The daily rate of consumption of goji berries should not exceed 100 grams.

Can I eat fresh goji berries

Under no circumstances are you allowed to consume the fruit in its pure form. Fresh goji berries are poison to the body, which can be fatal.

What you can make from goji berries

Since goji berries can be used as additives to various dishes, they have also been widely used in cooking. In particular, we can highlight some of the most interesting recipes.

Gazpacho with goji berries and cheese

To prepare this vegetarian dish, you need the following ingredients:

• 200 g goji berries;
• 300 ml of drinking water;
• 200 g of low-fat feta cheese;
• 400g ripe red tomatoes;
• 100 g of cherries;
• half an onion;
• pinch of sugar;
• olive oil;
• salt to taste.

Initially, pour warm water over the goji berries and infuse for 10 minutes until they are completely soaked. Remove all the seeds from the cherries, then mix them with the goji berries and vegetables in a blender. This mixture is poured with water and olive oil is added. The resulting mass is whipped to the consistency of a thick soup. Serve this gazpacho to the table with finely chopped slices of feta cheese, which in the hot season is pleasantly refreshing.

Goji berry and pork liver soup

This soup is quite simple to prepare. Pork liver is washed very thoroughly, soaked in water and boiled over medium heat for 30-40 minutes. After boiling, 50 g goji berries, vegetables to taste and cook the soup until tender.

Lamb soup with goji berries

Pour a small amount of water over lamb ribs and bring it to the boil (preferably over medium heat). Before the potpourri boils, remove the foam that appears, which can spoil the taste of the finished dish. Goji fruits are washed with special care, mixed with chopped onion and ginger (the latter is recommended to cut into slices). The resulting mixture is added to the lamb ribs, then a small amount of wine (not more than one tablespoon) and spices are poured into the stew (in the classic version of this soup add salt, pepper and Provencal herbs, but the list of spices can expand depending on taste preferences).

Next, the fire on the stove is reduced to minimum values and cook the soup until the lamb is fully cooked. After the meat is cooked, it is removed from the pot, the broth is carefully strained, and then the lamb is returned back to the pot. The ready stew is served hot. Also in the finished soup add a small amount of sour cream or mayonnaise, as well as add finely chopped greens (dill or parsley). It is important to note that such a soup is an excellent remedy to relieve the symptoms of various colds.

Also as a supplement goji berries can be used in the preparation of fruit salads, second courses (especially well combined with beef), as well as in baking a variety of desserts.

Facts about goji

1. According to scientists from China, the antioxidants and polysaccharides contained in goji berries can significantly increase the body's defense against the effects of free radicals. This makes it possible to prevent premature aging, lower cholesterol levels, improve the condition and function of blood vessels. There are also a number of studies that prove the interdependence of the moderate consumption of goji berries with human life expectancy.
2. Goji berries contain the widely known anti-cancer mineral germanium. In turn, antioxidants and beneficial polysaccharides can become a serious obstacle to the growth and development of cancer cells in the body of a person who systematically consumes goji berries. People with diagnosed malignant tumors who have more than once undergone chemotherapy say a serious reduction in the recovery period when consuming goji berries at the same time. However, it is important to note that the berries cannot be considered a panacea for cancer. They are a good supplementary remedy that supports the body of a cancer patient during the rehabilitation period.
3. The Ministry of Health of China officially approved goji berries in 1983 as an effective homeopathic remedy in the complex treatment of colds and infectious diseases.

Photo of goji berries