Goji Berries Side Effects

Goji berries or wolfberries are the fruits of two species of deciduous plants that belong to the family Solanaceae. These two species of goji are known as Lycium barbarum and Lycium chinese. These berry plants are widely found in the temperate and subtropical regions and they are widely cultivated in China for their amazing health benefits. Apart from China, they are widely grown in the Himalayan regions of Tibet and in Mongolia. Though the bright orange colored goji berries have been consumed by the Chinese and Tibetans for centuries, for their medicinal properties, recently they have captured the attention of the entire world for their presumed effect on human longevity. Here is a brief discussion about goji berries side effects as well as its health benefits. Let us first look at the health of benefits of this fruit.

Health Benefits of Goji Berry
Like other types of berries, e.g. blueberries and strawberries, goji berries are also packed with powerful antioxidants that can help fight the effects of free radicals that damage the cells and tissues of the body by oxidizing them. Free radicals are one of the most important factors that can speed up the process of aging. So, goji berries can help us to slow down the aging process by minimizing the harmful effects of free radicals. Another important benefit of goji berry is that it has the potential to boost the immune system. According to some studies, these berries can be beneficial for brain health too. Know more about antioxidants and the immune system.

The compound zeaxabthin found in goji berries can protect the retina and improve vision. Therefore, it is believed that their intake can lower the risk of developing age-related muscular degeneration which is quite common in individuals over the age of 65 years. This condition is regarded as one of the most leading causes of blindness in the older population of the world. In addition to all these, goji berries can improve blood circulation, protect the liver and improve fertility. Its consumption can help to reduce the risk of a great many diseases including cancer, heart diseases and age related diseases, like, Alzheimer's disease. Goji juice can also help those working hard to lose their weight. Know more about goji berries health benefits.

Goji Berries Side Effects
Despite all the health benefits of goji berries, their excess consumption can result in several side effects. People having pollen allergies should avoid these berries or consult a health practitioner before going in for goji berries and their extracts. This applies to expecting mothers as well. If taken in moderation, goji berries are not found to cause any serious side effects as per the research carried out so far. However, if taken in excessive amount, they can cause some minor side effects. Minor side effects of goji berries include nausea and dizziness.

Most of the serious side effects of goji juice and other goji berry extracts are produced due to their interaction with some drugs. Goji root bark can interact with high blood pressure and diabetes related medications to produce some really serious side effects. One of the most important side effects of goji root bark is an abnormal drop in blood pressure or hypotension, which can arise due to its interaction with high blood pressure medications. Similarly, in individuals taking diabetes medications, intake of goji root bark can lower the level of blood sugar and produce symptoms, like, dizziness and fainting.

Apart from high blood pressure and diabetes medications, goji berries side effects can also interact with warfarin, which is an anticoagulant drug that prevents blood clotting within the blood vessels. It has been reported that intake of goji berries or extracts can interact with the action of warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding. So, people on medications like warfarin should take adequate precautions while consuming not only goji berries but other herbs and herbal supplements as well. They should refrain from taking herbal medicines without consulting physicians or health care professionals.

Goji berries have a slightly sweet and sour taste and they are not only eaten raw but are also available as juice and liquid extract. They can also be brewed into tea or added to soups. Goji berries are truly a power pack of antioxidants and phytonutrients, which makes it an ideal food for general health and well being. But what is important to restrain the impulse to consume excess of them in an attempt to experience the benefits of goji berries rapidly. Also important is to consult an experienced physician before taking them for medicinal purposes in order to avoid the goji berries side effects.