Photo courtesy of @CleanFoodDirtyCity
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: Native to the Himalayas, Lycium barbarum, also known as the goji berry or the wolfberry, has been used for centuries, and is categorized as a potent super tonic herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Goji berries are fast growing and can thrive in a variety of climates. They are a true superfood, and contain almost 13% protein, making them one of the most protein-rich and nutritionally dense fruits. Just one cup contains 12 grams of protein! In addition they’re full of antioxidants and phytochemicals, helping to reverse free-radical damage and making them an excellent cancer-fighting food. Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, these berries are known as the secret to longevity, helping to maintain a youthful glow and treat a range of issues from balancing hormonal issues to improving eyesight.
WHY YOU SHOULD TRY THEM: Goji berries are best known for their overall longevity benefits. With 18 amino acids, including the 8 essential amino acids, 21 trace minerals, more iron than spinach, more vitamin C than an orange and the highest beta-carotene content of any food, it is understandable how these tiny fruits qualify as a superfood and why we need them in our diets.
They are excellent for women’s health, and may help regulate hormones, ease cramps and improve mood. In addition they are naturally anti-inflammatory, may help to lower cholesterol, cleanse the blood, support the liver and kidneys, improve overall immunity, and reduce cancer risk. From a perspective of beauty, gojis create a glow by helping to smooth and clear the skin, improve eyesight, and may even restore the natural color of our hair.
LET’S GET TOGETHER: It doesn’t hurt that goji berries taste great! With a sweet and slightly sour flavor tasting somewhere between a raisin, cranberry and tomato, goji berries are easy to incorporate into sweet and savory dishes. Traditionally they were used in teas and soups – monks would steep them in hot water to help provide focus, calm and vitality.
Today we throw goji berries into smoothies, sweets, breakfast bowls and even guac! Because they are usually sourced dried, they can be quite chewy and are often soaked for a few minutes if blending or incorporating into recipes.
Just an ounce a day is all that is needed! These berries are the true definition a superfood and are super nutritionally dense, so you don’t want to overdo it by consuming too many. They are sweet, flavorful and juicy unlike many other dried gojis.
Source: The Chalkboard Mag
