Lycium Chinense Benefits
Lycium chinense, commonly known as the Chinese wolfberry or Goji berry, is a nutrient-rich plant that offers a multitude of health benefits.
Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, it has been shown to improve eye health by reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration, promote healthy skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and even support cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Additionally, the plant's high levels of beta-carotene and lycopene have been linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers, while its anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, making everyday activities feel more manageable and comfortable.
Overall, incorporating Lycium chinense into one's diet can lead to a range of benefits that can improve overall quality of life and enhance overall well-being.
Below there's a list of the 7 best health benefits of lycium chinense.
- 1. Reduces inflammation
- 2. Supports eye health
- 3. Boosts immune system
- 4. Reduces oxidative stress
- 5. Supports cardiovascular health
- 6. Protects liver function
- 7. Lowers blood pressure
1. Reduces inflammation
Lycium chinense reduces inflammation because it is rich in bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and alkaloids, including lyciumin, lycorine, and chlorogenic acid, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and alleviating conditions such as arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory-related disorders.
The anti-inflammatory effects of Lycium chinense have also been found to be beneficial in reducing inflammation associated with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
By reducing inflammation, Lycium chinense may help to promote overall health and well-being, and alleviate symptoms of related ailments.
2. Supports eye health
Lycium chinense supports eye health because it is rich in bioactive constituents such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These constituents help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
By alleviating conditions like dry eye syndrome and retinal damage, lycium chinense also helps to relieve symptoms associated with glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.
The bioactive compounds in lycium chinense work synergistically to promote overall eye health and visual acuity, making it a valuable natural remedy for supporting eye well-being.
3. Boosts immune system
Lycium chinense boosts immune system because it contains bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids that have potent antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties.
These compounds help to stimulate the production of white blood cells and activate immune cells, enhancing the body's defense against pathogens and diseases.
As a result, Lycium chinense has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of common ailments such as the common cold, flu, and allergies, as well as more serious conditions like autoimmune disorders and certain types of cancer.
The immunobeneficial effects of Lycium chinense may also be beneficial for individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or with chronic illnesses like HIV/AIDS.
4. Reduces oxidative stress
Lycium chinense reduces oxidative stress because of its rich content of bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and polysaccharides, which have potent antioxidant properties.
These compounds, including lyciumin, lyciumoside, and lycium polysaccharide, help to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating oxidative stress.
As a result, Lycium chinense has been traditionally used to relieve ailments related to oxidative stress, such as arthritis, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
By reducing oxidative stress, Lycium chinense may also help to protect against cell damage and promote overall health and well-being.
5. Supports cardiovascular health
Lycium chinense supports cardiovascular health because it contains bioactive constituents such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, and alkaloids, particularly lyciumin, which contribute to its cardiovascular benefits.
These compounds help to improve cardiovascular function by reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, and preventing the formation of blood clots, thus alleviating conditions like hypertension, atherosclerosis, and myocardial infarction.
The regular consumption of Lycium chinense may also help to lower triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels, further reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
By promoting cardiovascular health, Lycium chinense can help to prevent or manage conditions such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure.
6. Protects liver function
Lycium chinense protects liver function because it contains bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and alkaloids, particularly glycosides, anthocyanins, and carotenoids, which have been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, thereby protecting the liver from damage and promoting its normal functioning.
The liver-protective effects of Lycium chinense can help alleviate ailments such as liver cirrhosis, hepatitis, and fatty liver disease, as well as conditions like jaundice and liver failure.
By supporting liver health, Lycium chinense can also help to maintain overall well-being and prevent the progression of liver-related diseases.
7. Lowers blood pressure
Lycium chinense lowers blood pressure because it contains bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids, which have been shown to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to its blood pressure-lowering effects.
The flavonoids present in Lycium chinense, including quercetin and kaempferol, can help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow, while the anthocyanins can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system.
By alleviating high blood pressure, individuals can experience relief from related ailments such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue, as well as reduce their risk of developing conditions like heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
Regular consumption of Lycium chinense may also help mitigate the symptoms of hypertension and promote overall cardiovascular health.