Side Effects of Goji Berries

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 chinense. 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 the side effects of goji berries as well as their health benefits. Let us first look at the health of benefits of this fruit.

Health Benefits

• 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.
• The compound zeaxanthin 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 macular degeneration which is quite common in individuals over the age of 65 years. This condition is regarded as one of the 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.

Side Effects
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.

• People having pollen allergies should avoid these berries or consult a health practitioner before going in for goji berries and their extracts. Side effects include difficulty in breathing, hives, nausea, and dizziness.
• These berries contain the alkaloid atropine, and an overdose of atropine can cause vomiting, blurred vision, dry mouth, and confusion.
• 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 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 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.
• Goji berries have a high selenium content. An essential trace element for the body, in rare cases, very high doses of selenium may lead to birth defects and reduced fertility in women, nerve damage and/or gastrointestinal problems.

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