Can eating goji berries cause “internal heat”?
May 07, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
Goji berries (Lycium barbarum) are generally safe to consume in normal amounts without causing “internal heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept referring to symptoms such as sore throat, acne, or irritability). Goji berries are classified in TCM as having a sweet taste and neutral nature—not warm or hot. Because of their neutral property, consuming them in typical amounts—such as a generous handful of dried goji berries—usually does not lead to “heatiness.” Goji berries offer multiple health benefits and are officially approved by China’s National Health Commission as a dual-purpose food and herbal substance.
A plant belonging to the Solanaceae family and the genus *Lycium*. “Goji berry” is a collective term for the fruits of several *Lycium* species—including *Lycium barbarum* (commonly known as Ningxia goji) and *Lycium chinense*—which are commercially sold as goji berries. The goji berries commonly consumed as food or used in traditional medicine are primarily the fruits of *Lycium barbarum*. So, does consuming goji berries cause “internal heat” (a concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine referring to symptoms such as sore throat, acne, or irritability)?
Do Goji Berries Cause “Internal Heat”?
Generally, consuming goji berries in normal amounts does not cause “internal heat.” Goji berries are characterized by a sweet, neutral nature—not warm or hot—and thus are not classified as warming or heating herbs. As a neutral herb, goji berries can typically be consumed in moderate quantities—even a generous handful of dried berries—without causing “internal heat.” Approved by China’s National Health Commission as both a food and a medicinal substance, goji berries offer numerous health benefits when consumed in appropriate amounts. They are rich in beta-carotene, various vitamins, and essential minerals such as calcium and iron, contributing notably to eye health—hence their common nickname, “eye-brightening berry.”
Boosting immune function: Consuming goji berries helps strengthen the body’s fundamental Qi (“supporting the upright Qi”), consolidate vital energy, and expel pathogenic factors, thereby enhancing overall physiological function, promoting recovery from illness, and improving resistance to disease. Protecting vision and improving eyesight: Goji berries are especially renowned for their ophthalmic benefits—thus the colloquial name “eye-brightening berry.” Throughout history, TCM practitioners have frequently prescribed goji berries to treat blurred vision and night blindness caused by liver blood deficiency or kidney yin deficiency. A well-known classical formula, Qiju Dihuang Wan (Lycium and Chrysanthemum Rehmannia Pill), features goji berries as a principal ingredient.
Helping lower blood lipid levels and managing hypertension: Regular consumption of goji berries significantly reduces serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, alleviates and prevents atherosclerosis, aids in hypertension management, and serves as an excellent health supplement for individuals with coronary heart disease. We hope this response has been helpful to you!
