Lycium: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage And Interaction

Lycium Overview

This little plant is known as the “tree of the Jews” in the Bible and is commonly used to cure various health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, fever, and age-related eye problems. Lycium, also known as Gogi and dubbed a “superfood” by some, can be consumed raw, cooked, or dried (like raisins) and is found in herbal teas, juices, wines, and medicines.

The deciduous shrub’s berries and bark are also employed in a variety of natural healing therapies.

Where Does Lycium Come From?

Lycium is a Middle Eastern shrub that has been used for healing and cooking since biblical times. It is also known as the Goji bush in China, where it grows. While its use dates back to the Middle East, ancient Chinese texts from the first century reference the shrub’s healing powers. Goji berries are credited in one Chinese book with increasing the life of an old herbalist who lived for an incredible 252 years.

Health Benefits of Lycium

There are various potential health benefits linked with Lycium; however, it’s worth noting that further research is ongoing to determine the natural ingredient’s usefulness. While the berries and bark appear to be effective for lowering blood pressure and sugar levels, you should still consult a health care provider before incorporating Lycium into your daily regimen. ^[1]

1. Protects the eyes

Lycium is thought to protect against age-related vision problems. They can help with help problems since they are high in antioxidants, particularly zeaxanthin. ^[2]
Antioxidants can also protect you from harm caused by:

• Ultraviolet (UV) light
• Radicals (free radicals)
• Oxidative stress

2. Provides immune system support

Lycium is high in antioxidants, which are good for your health. Antioxidants are well-known for enhancing the immune system and combating damaging free radicals and inflammation.

Lycium, like other berries such as blueberries and raspberries, contains high levels of vitamins A and C. Vitamins A and C are essential for boosting immunity and preventing ailments like the common cold and cancer. ^[3]

3. Promotes healthy skin

Beta-carotene is an essential plant phytochemical found in Lycium or Goji berries. Beta-carotene is well-known for its ability to support skin health.

Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that is found in skin treatments and helps to

• Maintain skin health.
• Reduce skin inflammation
• Take care of the sun’s rays
• Take care of the effects of aging

4. It helps to keep blood sugar levels in check.

Lycium may aid in the regulation of sugar levels in the blood. Goji berries have been demonstrated in studies to help regulate insulin and glucose levels in the blood. ^[4]

5. May Have Anti-Aging Benefits

Lycium contains antioxidants that may aid in the battle against aging by blocking free radicals from destroying collagen in the skin. ^[5]

Some studies have also shown that Lycium extract may help delay the aging process in cells. ^[6]

6. May Boost Energy Levels

Goji berry extract or juice, when consumed in concentrated form, has been related to increased energy and overall well-being.

Lycium extract is known to boost the production of muscle and liver glycogen, a glucose storage type that helps you maintain physical activity.

It may help hasten the removal of blood urea nitrogen, a waste product produced by your body after vigorous exercise.

Side Effects of Lycium

Lycium or Goji is generally safe for most adults, but an allergic reaction can be avoided by consulting a health care professional. Vomiting and nausea are the most common goji berry side effects associated with the natural ingredient. These side effects are usually minor and go away within a few hours. A health care professional should be contacted as soon as possible if symptoms persist. Women who are pregnant should avoid the natural component to avoid the risk of miscarriage.

Recommended Dosage and Timing for Lycium

You should always follow the supplement’s recommended dosage, but it’s also vital to understand that there are no hard and fast rules. Because Lycium is still being researched, no recommended dosage or regimen has been given. In most circumstances, your health care professional will decide on the time and dosage depending on several factors. If you decide to use the supplements without seeking medical counsel, it is critical that you never exceed the specified amount on the package.

Use of Lycium in Supplements

While there is insufficient evidence to assess the efficacy of Lycium when taken in these goji berry supplements, there are some early hints that the natural element may help with various health problems. It’s frequently combined with other roots, such as dendrobium stems, chrysanthemums, and other substances to make a relaxing tonic for treating various eye ailments.

When Goji berries are added to nutritious shakes, it is claimed that they may help with healthy weight loss. Lycium in supplements are most commonly used to cure erectile dysfunction, and the ancient Chinese have used this natural therapy for ages. Before adding any Lycium supplements to your usual treatment plan, consult with a health care expert.

Lycium Interactions

Lycium supplements can interact with any treatments that are broken down by the liver. This includes diabetes treatments as well as treatments for high blood pressure. There is also a slight chance of an allergic reaction, which can cause dizziness, nausea, and even throat swelling, which is why you should consult a doctor before adding Lycium to your daily routine.

Lycium FAQ’s

Q: What Nutrients Can I Get From Lycium?

A: Goji berries offer plenty of vitamins and minerals such as:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Fiber

Iron

They’re also a good source of protein and antioxidants.

Q: How Does Lycium Taste?

A: Lycium is a reddish-orange berry that has a sweet and sour taste.

Q: How Can I Use Lycium?

A: There are many ways to use and get Lycium into your diet:

• You can eat them raw.
• You can use them when cooking.
• You can drink Lycium as a fruit juice.
• You can take Lycium as a supplement.
• You can use them in herbal tea.

Q: Where Can I Get Lycium?

A: You can buy Lycium online or at any store or market near you.

Final Verdict

For thousands of years, this naturally growing shrub has been treasured for its medicinal virtues as well as for tasty berries. While further research is needed to determine the health benefits of goji berries and bark, it has been proven to help with high blood sugar and blood pressure symptoms. Although this plant is generally considered safe, it is always a good idea to consult a doctor before adding anything new to your current treatment plan. While goji berries might help with some health conditions, they can also be harmful if consumed incorrectly.