November 5, 2007

5 Secrets of Himalayan Goji Berries

The Goji berry is a new fruit to several people who are not only unaware of its origin but also do not have any idea of the numerous benefits that the fruit provides. The history of the Goji berry dates back several hundred years when it was found in a well near a Tibetan Buddhist temple in the Himalayas. The Buddhist monks drank the water of the well, which had Goji berries and went on to live very long.

This established the role of the Goji berry as a fruit that could provide you health and a longer life span and thus, from then on the Goji berry was a significant part of the diet of the monks. This secret has slowly come to be known to people and the benefits of this wonder fruit is making it very popular. History has several incidents to quote that stand testimony to the benefits provided by this wonder fruit.

What are Goji Berries and how do they Work?

Goji berries or Lycium Barbarum berry grows on vines and are red in color. The plant is seen in the Himalayas especially in the Central Asian region. As per traditions it was believed that the Goji berries would turn black and get spoilt if touched by hand and are thus, not picked but shaken from the vines. They are then dried slightly. The berries can be eaten straightaway like any other fruit or can be crushed and the juice extracted.

The Goji berry is a rich source of antioxidants and thus, has anti-aging properties. It boosts the immune system and is seen to have effects in case of diseases like cholesterol, diabetes, blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, HIV, depression and allergies. The Goji berries contain Vitamin C (even more than oranges), essential amino acids, vitamin E, Vitamin B, Omega fatty acid, Linoleic acid and more beta-carotene than any food found on the planet.

Some experiences of people also go to show that Goji berries have a remarkable effect in improving sexual performance and in issues like infertility. Goji berries are consumed in some countries by ladies for preventing morning sickness experienced during pregnancy. Many Asian women are seen to believe firmly that the juice of the Goji berry if consumed regularly can be very helpful during menopause.

A study conducted on some elderly people has gone to show good results. Out of the people who consumed the Goji berry every day, 67% found an enhancement in their immune levels. 95% of the people reported an improvement in appetite and could sleep better. Out of the total number of people 35% reported improvement in sexual activity.

Several studies are taking place in different parts of the world for determining the usefulness of the Goji berry in treating diseases like diabetes and also several other diseases. Some people believe that the Goji berry has such a remarkable effect in boosting the immune system of a person that then the person can find a solution to several other problems without any difficulty. The studies conducted are however, still to confirm this.

Only time would be able to provide an answer to the question regarding the usefulness of the Goji berry. However, in the meantime you could try out this wonder fruit on your own.

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