Goji Berry (Lycium chinense)

Goji berry (Lycium chinense) contains high levels of antioxidant polyphenols including chlorogenic acid and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside, along with bioactive L. chinense polysaccharides (LCP). These compounds provide cellular protection through free radical scavenging and may support immune function via polysaccharide-mediated pathways.

Origin & History

Goji berry (Lycium chinense) is the fruit of a deciduous shrub native to Asia, particularly China, distinguished from L. barbarum by its purple flowers. The berries are typically harvested and dried, containing water-soluble bioactive polysaccharides alongside polyphenols, carotenoids, vitamins, and minerals.

Historical & Cultural Context

Goji berry originates from traditional Chinese medicine, where fruits of Lycium species have been used historically. Specific traditional applications and duration of use for L. chinense are not detailed beyond its general bioactive context.

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidant polyphenols including chlorogenic acid (526 μg/g) and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (159-629 μg/g) - evidence quality: compositional analysis only
• Contains L. chinense polysaccharides (LCP) with potential bioactive properties - evidence quality: structural characterization only
• High in essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid (49-59%) - evidence quality: compositional data only
• Source of vitamin C (48 mg/100g) and minerals like potassium - evidence quality: nutritional analysis only
• Contains catechins (348 mg/100g) and flavonols (116 mg/100g) - evidence quality: compositional studies only

How It Works

Goji berry's chlorogenic acid (526 μg/g) and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (159-629 μg/g) neutralize reactive oxygen species through electron donation and metal chelation. L. chinense polysaccharides (LCP) may modulate immune responses by binding to toll-like receptors and activating macrophages. The polyphenols also inhibit lipid peroxidation and support cellular antioxidant enzyme systems.

Scientific Research

The research dossier reveals no human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses with PubMed PMIDs for L. chinense. Available studies focus exclusively on compositional analysis and characterization of bioactive compounds rather than clinical outcomes.

Clinical Summary

Current evidence for goji berry is limited to compositional analyses and structural characterization studies. The antioxidant polyphenol content has been quantified through laboratory analysis, but human clinical trials evaluating health outcomes are lacking. L. chinense polysaccharides have undergone structural characterization to identify bioactive components, but efficacy data from controlled human studies is not available. More research is needed to validate the health benefits suggested by the ingredient's bioactive profile.

Nutritional Profile

Goji berry (Lycium chinense) provides a dense nutritional profile per 100g dried weight. Macronutrients: carbohydrates 68-77g (predominantly as polysaccharides and simple sugars), protein 11-14g (containing all essential amino acids, notably glutamic acid and arginine), fat 1.5-3g (with linoleic acid comprising 49-59% of fatty acid fraction, followed by palmitic acid ~22% and oleic acid ~10%). Fiber content approximately 7-10g. Micronutrients: zeaxanthin dipalmitate (the dominant carotenoid) at 56-200mg per 100g dried berry — notably high bioavailability when consumed with dietary fat; beta-carotene 3-5mg/100g; vitamin C approximately 29-148mg/100g (wide range depending on cultivar and processing); riboflavin (B2) ~0.9mg/100g; thiamine (B1) ~0.15mg/100g. Minerals: potassium ~1100mg/100g, calcium ~112mg/100g, phosphorus ~150mg/100g, iron ~6-9mg/100g, zinc ~1.5mg/100g, selenium ~50μg/100g (notably high). Bioactive compounds: L. chinense polysaccharides (LCP) comprising galactose, arabinose, and rhamnose backbones; chlorogenic acid at 526μg/g; quercetin-3-O-rutinoside at 159-629μg/g; betaine ~0.1%. Bioavailability notes: zeaxanthan bioavailability is significantly enhanced by co-consumption with lipids; polyphenol absorption may be limited by the polysaccharide matrix; iron is non-heme form with reduced bioavailability compared to animal sources.

Preparation & Dosage

No clinically studied dosage ranges for L. chinense extracts, powder, or standardized forms are available in the scientific literature. Current research emphasizes compositional analysis over intervention studies. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Synergy & Pairings

Other antioxidant-rich berries, vitamin C sources, polyphenol-rich foods, traditional Chinese herbs

Safety & Interactions

Goji berries are generally recognized as safe for most adults when consumed as food. However, they may interact with warfarin and other anticoagulant medications, potentially increasing bleeding risk. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, particularly those with sensitivities to other nightshade family plants. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using goji berry supplements due to insufficient safety data.