Can you drink water infused with Lycium barbarum (goji berries) overnight?
Apr 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
If goji berry-infused water is left at room temperature overnight, bacteria or microorganisms may proliferate in the water. Consuming it at this point could lead to adverse reactions such as diarrhea and abdominal pain; therefore, it is not recommended to drink it overnight at room temperature. Additionally, prolonged soaking may cause loss of nutritional components in the goji berries, reducing their health benefits.
Generally speaking, it is not recommended to drink goji berry-infused water overnight at room temperature, but it may be consumed in moderation if refrigerated properly and without signs of spoilage. If any adverse reactions occur, prompt medical attention is advised. Detailed explanation is as follows:
If goji berry water is left at room temperature for an entire night, bacteria or microbes may proliferate in the water. Consumption under such circumstances could lead to adverse reactions such as diarrhea and abdominal pain, so drinking it overnight at room temperature is not recommended. Moreover, long-term soaking might cause the loss of nutritional components in the goji berries, reducing their health benefits, and could even result in an unusual odor or discoloration—both signs indicating the water should not be consumed.
If the prepared goji berry water is stored in the refrigerator and there are no signs of spoilage, such as unpleasant odor, discoloration, or other abnormalities, it may be consumed in moderation. A cold environment effectively inhibits bacterial growth and extends the storage duration. However, even when refrigerated, goji berry water left overnight may have a deteriorated taste due to prolonged soaking, and some individuals might experience discomfort after consumption.
When considering drinking overnight goji berry water, always check the water's appearance and smell to ensure it has not spoiled before deciding to consume it.
