Throughout the world, herbs have been used for thousands of years to treat and heal a myriad of conditions. As an herbalist, herbs are typically my number one go-to for most conditions. My in-depth study of herbs has provided me with the knowledge and understanding of many diseases as well as their underlying conditions. Not only do I treat symptoms with herbs, but I also use them to treat the deeper underlying causes.
There are so many herbs! People always ask me about the new “trendy” herbs and formulations that come on the market as the “miracle” for weight loss, anti-aging, high blood pressure, and libido, among others.
About four years ago, dried Goji berries were the rage, but they are no less important today. Goji berries have many names, among them their Chinese name, gou qi zi, or Chinese wolfberry fruit, or lycium fruit. Goji berries are very nutritious, known for benefiting the eyes, as well as promoting overall health. This fruit can be eaten by the handful (similar to a raisin), and added to dishes such as oatmeal, congee, and porridge. Many also add it to soups and stews giving the dish a hint of sweetness along with all the therapeutic values this berry has to offer. However you like to ingest it, a typical recommended dosage is 6-18 grams.
From a TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) perspective, this herb nourishes the liver and the kidneys, tonifying yin and blood. It can help with symptoms such as sore back and legs, low grade abdominal pain, impotence, diabetes, and aging. It is known to benefit the eyes, helping with dizziness, blurred, and diminished vision. It can also alleviate coughs. A typical dosage is 6-18 grams.
This dried and wrinkled little red fruit has taken off as a sweet treat. It is found in most health food and nutritional supplement stores, or virtually found anywhere in Chinatown. Goji berries are included in many herbal Chinese formulas. This fruit is usually packaged in bags, like raisins, or in powder, tea, energy and nutritional bars, desserts, drinks, body creams, and more.
Goji berries have become quite popular over the years and, thankfully, they are accessible to anyone in reach of a health food store!
Contributor
Acupuncturist, herbalist, Maya abdominal practitioner, and reflexologist Christina Morris is the founder of Element Natural Healing Arts. Writing about health and wellness gives her an outlet to express her care and concern for her beloved community. She believes everyone can achieve better health and happiness–emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.