Botanical Overview
Lycium barbarum (fructus), commonly known as Goji berry or Wolfberry, is a member of the Solanaceae family. The medicinally used part is the dried fruit, renowned both in traditional Chinese medicine and increasingly in Western herbal practice. Native to China and East Asia, it has also been introduced and naturalized in parts of Europe and North America.
Energetics
The fruit is considered energetically neutral in temperature and moistening in moisture quality. Its taste profile is primarily sweet with a slightly bitter note. It is tonifying in nature, traditionally supporting qi, blood, and bodily fluids.
Primary Actions
- Antioxidant
- Hepatoprotective
- Immunomodulator
- Neuroprotective
- Tonic
Indications
Western
- Fatigue
- Visual impairment
- Immunodeficiency
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Oxidative stress
- Age-related degeneration
- Immune deficiency
TCM
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Dry throat
Syndromes
- Liver Blood deficiency
- Kidney Yin deficiency
- Qi and Blood deficiency
Ayurveda
No significant traditional indications documented.
Unani
No significant traditional indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The fruit contains polysaccharides, carotenoids (notably zeaxanthin), flavonoids, phenolic acids, vitamins C and E, and betaine, contributing to its antioxidant, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Dried fruit 6–12 g daily
- Decoction of fruit 6–12 g in water
- Tincture 1:5 (ethanol 40%) 2–4 mL, 1–3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Considered safe in traditional doses with mild gastrointestinal discomfort possible. Caution is advised during pregnancy due to limited data. Potential additive effects with immunosuppressants warrant careful use in autoimmune conditions.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers are established for Lycium barbarum.
Selected References
- Phytochemistry and pharmacology of Lycium barbarum fruits: A review
- Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2020 Edition)
- Lycium barbarum polysaccharides: A review of pharmacological functions
- The Traditional Medicinal Uses of Lycium barbarum