Can soaking Ophiopogon japonicus (Maidong) and Lycium barbarum (Gouqi) in water and drinking it treat diabetes?

Aug 24, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
Goji berries themselves do not lower blood glucose, but Ophiopogon japonicus (Maidong) does. Goji berries are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, beta-carotene, B-complex vitamins, calcium, iron, and other nutrients, which can enhance white blood cell activity and inhibit fat deposition within hepatocytes. Ophiopogon japonicus functions to nourish yin, generate body fluids, moisten the lungs, and clear heat from the heart. It also promotes recovery of pancreatic islet cell function and lowers blood glucose levels.

Ophiopogon and wolfberry are both highly regarded traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. Many patients steep them in hot water to make a health-promoting tea, which helps calm the mind, replenish vital energy (Qi), and support overall wellness. But can drinking Ophiopogon–wolfberry infusion treat diabetes?

Can Drinking Ophiopogon–Wolfberry Infusion Treat Diabetes?

Wolfberry itself does not lower blood glucose; however, Ophiopogon does possess hypoglycemic properties. Wolfberry is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, beta-carotene, B-complex vitamins, calcium, iron, and other nutrients—these help enhance white blood cell activity and inhibit fat accumulation within liver cells. Ophiopogon’s primary therapeutic actions include nourishing Yin, generating body fluids, moistening the lungs, and clearing heat from the heart. It can promote functional recovery of pancreatic islet cells, thereby lowering blood glucose levels, and also helps alleviate thirst—a common symptom among diabetic patients. It is commonly consumed daily as a herbal tea.

Diabetes not only damages the kidneys but also severely affects blood vessels and blood circulation. In many diabetic patients, elevated blood glucose leads to markedly increased blood viscosity, raising the risk of thrombosis. Some patients develop cerebral infarction or experience angina pectoris due to diabetes-related cardiovascular complications. Severe cases may progress to myocardial infarction or sudden cardiac death. Additionally, diabetes significantly impairs nervous system function: most diabetic patients suffer from pronounced limb numbness and diminished tactile sensation. Such individuals often lose the ability to accurately perceive temperature or pain.

Thus, diabetes poses substantial health risks. If any of these symptoms appear, prompt medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital are essential. We hope this article has been helpful to you. Wishing you good health and a joyful life!

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