Does goji berry have the effect of tonifying the kidney and enhancing yang?
Sep 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Goji berry is the mature fruit of Lycium barbarum, a plant from the Solanaceae family. It is rich in nutrients and contains various active components such as lycium polysaccharides, flavonoids, and carotenoids. These components can nourish the kidneys, enhance the synthesis and secretion of adrenal cortical hormones, help alleviate symptoms caused by kidney yin deficiency—such as soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, dizziness, blurred vision, and tinnitus—and exert kidney-tonifying and yang-strengthening effects.
Generally, goji berries have the effect of tonifying the kidneys and enhancing yang. The specific analysis is as follows:
Goji berries are the ripe fruits of Lycium barbarum, a plant from the Solanaceae family. They are rich in nutrients, including substantial amounts of protein, amino acids, vitamins, and essential minerals such as iron, zinc, phosphorus, and calcium. They also contain abundant bioactive components such as polysaccharides, flavonoids, and carotenoids. These substances can nourish the kidneys, promote the synthesis and secretion of adrenal cortical hormones, help alleviate symptoms caused by kidney yin deficiency—such as soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, dizziness, blurred vision, and tinnitus—and thus exert kidney-tonifying and yang-enhancing effects. Long-term, moderate consumption of goji berries has positive benefits for improving male sexual function and increasing physical stamina.
However, due to their strong warming effect on the body, goji berries should be avoided by individuals with colds, fever, inflammation, or diarrhea. Additionally, people with hypertension, those with overly irritable temperaments, or individuals who consume large amounts of meat and consequently exhibit flushed complexions should refrain from using them.
In daily life, a healthy adult should consume about 20 grams of goji berries per day. For therapeutic purposes, a daily intake of approximately 30 grams is recommended.
