Food Therapy: Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi)

Goji berries (Gou Qi Zi) are a delicious way to nourish blood, benefit the eyes, and moisten the lungs. This herb has a sweet taste and neutral temperature making it great for any season, gives it a moistening quality, and makes it gentle on the digestion when served cooked.

The moistening quality of goji makes it great for mild dryness including dry cough. Goji berries are rich in antioxidants as well as vitamins A and C which aid to their ability to boost immunity.

In Chinese herbology Gou Qi Zi (goji) is used to nourish Liver blood and benefit the eyes (the sense organ associated with the Liver). Goji berries are great for blurred vision and decreased visual acuity. Scientific studies have found that consumption of goji berries lead to increased zeaxathin and antioxidants in the blood which help protect the eyes from UV light, free radicals and oxidative stress.

Below is a great recipe to start enjoying the benefits of Gou Qi Zi today! How do you like to enjoy goji? Feel free to comment below.

*NOTE: If you are currently taking blood thinners (including Warfarin), certain diabetes medications, and/or certain blood pressure medications check with your health care provider before including goji berries in your diet as they may interact.

Recipe: Goji Berry Oatmeal

¼ cup Oats

1 cup water

1 handful goji berries

½ tsp honey

Coconut milk to taste

Cinnamon to taste

In a small saucepan combine oats, water, and goji berries. Place saucepan over low-medium heat allowing it to warm slowly to a gentle bubble. Cook 20-30 minutes or until the oats become thick. Remove from heat add honey, coconut milk, and cinnamon. Enjoy!

Sources:

Chen, J., Chen, T. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology. City of Industry, CA. Art of Medicine Press, Inc., 2001.

Barhum, L., “What are the health benefits of goji berries?”. Medical News Today. 2018. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322693.php . Accessed on 2 Dec. 2019.

**The information in this blog is not intended for the purpose of medical advice. All information, content, and material of this blog is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. **