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GOJI GOES UNDER THE MICROSCOPE Dr Earl Mindell
is world-renowned as the Father of the Nutritional Revolution. A master
herbalist and registered pharmacist, Dr Mindell holds a Ph.D in Nutrition.
He has authored 50 books including the Vitamin Bible with more than 10
million copies sold worldwide. - Dr Earl Mindell For the scientists trying to unlock the secrets of the goji berry, it quickly became apparent that there was probably no one "best" growing region. Therefore, they decided to do what scientists do. They determined that they would pull the goji berry apart in the laboratory. They dissected it to find out what makes it tick. The goji researchers began with some simple vitamin, mineral and nutrient analysis, expecting to find results similar to other fruits. They were totally unprepared for what they found. This tiny fruit revealed itself to be quite possibly the most nutritionally dense food on earth! Goji Facts: *Contains 19 amino acids—the building blocks of protein—including all eight that are essential for life. *Contains 21 trace minerals, including germanium, an anti-cancer trace mineral rarely found in foods. *Contains more protein than whole wheat (13 percent). *Contains a complete spectrum of antioxidant carotenoids, including beta-carotene (a better source than even carrots!) and zeaxanthin (protects the eyes). Goji berries are the richest source of carotenoids of all known foods. *Contains Vitamin C at higher levels than even those found in oranges. *Contains B-complex vitamins, necessary for converting food into energy. *Contains Vitamin E (very rarely found in fruits, only in grains and seeds). *Contains Beta-Sitosterol, an anti-inflammatory agent. Beta-Sitosterol also lowers cholesterol and has been used to treat sexual impotence and prostate enlargement. *Contains essential fatty acids, which are required for the body’s production of hormones and for the smooth functioning of the brain and nervous system. *Contains Cyperone, a sesquiterpene that benefits the heart and blood pressure, alleviates menstrual discomfort, and has been used in the treatment of cervical cancer. *Contains Solavetivone, a powerful anti-fungal and anti-bacterial compound. *Contains Physalin, a natural compound that is active against all major types of leukemia. It has been shown to increase splenic natural killer cell activity in normal and tumor-bearing mice, with broad-spectrum anti-cancer effect. It has also been used as a treatment for hepatitis B. *Contains Betaine, which is used by the liver to produce choline, a compound that calms nervousness, enhances memory, promotes muscle growth, and protects against fatty liver disease. Betaine also provides methyl groups in the body’s energy reactions and can help reduce levels of homocysteine, a prime risk factor in heart disease. It also protects DNA. Even with its extensive and diverse nutrient profile revealed, the goji still seemed to be holding on to some secrets. There appeared to be many therapeutic effects that simply could not be explained. This was not a big surprise. With medicinal herbs, activity is hardly ever due to just one single chemical constituent, as is often the case with "conventional" drugs. Rather, it is usually a mixture of constituents that are responsible for the therapeutic or protective effect of botanical medicines. Many of these herbal components are unique to a single plant species. They are not found anywhere else in nature, and have not yet been chemically identified. RESEARCH-SUPPORTED USES OF GOJI Allergies In a study of goji berry reported in the Journal of the Beijing Medical University (1992), it was noted that goji reduced antibodies associated with allergy-type reactions, which was presumed to be accomplished through the mechanisms of promoting CD8(+) T-cells and regulating cytokines. Probably as a result of this activity, goji berry has also been reported to be a useful treatment for psoriasis. Anti-Aging Goji’s unique LBP polysaccharide complex has been found to be a powerful secretagogue (a substance that stimulates the secretion of rejuvenative human growth hormone by the pituitary gland). Goji berries have been traditionally regarded as a longevity, strengthbuilding, and sexual potency food of the highest order. In several study groups with elderly people, the berry was given once a day for three weeks. Many beneficial results were experienced. Nearly 70 percent of patients made impressive gains in their immune defense systems, with a tripling of T-cell transformation functions and a doubling of activity of white cell interleukin-2 (IL-2). The results also showed that spirit and optimism increased significantly in all patients. Additionally, nearly all patients reported improved appetite and better quality of sleep. More than 35 percent of the patients saw a marked recovery of sexual function. Zhang (1993) studied the role of goji’s unique LBP polysaccharides in fighting peroxidation, a primary cause of premature cell death. Dr. Zhang and his team measured the changes in the electrical parameters of cell membranes after incubating living cells in a solution containing dangerous free radicals for six hours. They observed that the deadly effects of free radicals on the cells can be prevented and reversed by incubation with LBP polysaccharides. Arthritis and Inflammatory Conditions The inflammatory free radical most often implicated in arthritis is known as the superoxide anion. Under normal conditions, the body is able to keep superoxide anions in check by producing the enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) to intercept and neutralize them before they can cause pain, inflammation and cell damage. Extensive scientific research over the past 20 years has shown that, in acute and chronic inflammation, superoxide anions are produced at a rate that overwhelms the capacity of the body’s SOD enzyme defense system to remove them. Such an imbalance results in superoxide-mediated damage. Protective and beneficial roles of SOD have been shown in a broad range of diseases, both preclinically and clinically. The results from the latter studies prove the concept that superoxide anions have an important role in human disease, and that their removal by SOD does in fact result in beneficial outcomes. One study in China found that the ingestion of goji resulted in a remarkable 40 percent increase of this extremely important anti-inflammatory enzyme. Athletic Performance / Energy An animal study showed that goji’s LBP polysaccharides induced a remarkable increase in exercise tolerance and stamina, and helped to eliminate fatigue. Goji LBP enhances glycogen storage (glycogen is the body’s primary energy fuel). Goji LBP also helps in post-workout recovery. It may limit sore muscles by increasing activity of the lactic acid removing enzyme lactate dehydrogenase. It also accelerates clearance of blood urea nitrogen, a toxin produced during exercise. Blood Builder A study in China showed LBP facilitated stem cell proliferation and increased the number of monocytes in bone marrow. LBP helps the monocytes to convert to matured leukocytes. The berry has also been used in a number of recent clinical trials for treatment of bone marrow deficiency conditions (low production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). Another three-year clinical study investigated the effects of the goji berry on the immune, physiological and biochemical indexes of the blood of aged volunteers. The results indicated that the goji berry caused the blood of older people to revert to a markedly younger state. Cancer Prevention Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a crucial cytokine (cell protein) that inducespotent antitumor responses in a variety of cancer models. Several plant polysaccharides have been shown to enhance the production of interleukin-2 (IL-2). Goji LBPs are particularly active in this regard; the enhancing effect of LBP on IL-2 activity was reported by the Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology in Beijing (1989). In the U.S., IL-2 has been under study as an immune promoting factor since 1983, used for some cancers and for HIV infection. Other studies from China show that goji berry inhibits the gene mutation induced by TA98 and TA100. Some scientists believe that goji may be a very good supplement to prevent liver cancer because it exerts liver protection and anticancer effects at the same time. Cancer Management In one of the most positive studies yet conducted with goji, 79 advanced cancer patients were treated with the drug LAK/IL-2 combined with goji LBPs in a clinical trail studied by Cao GW et al (1994) at Second Military Medical University in Shanghai, China. Their initial results indicated an amazing regression of cancer in patients with malignant melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, lung cancer, nasopharyngeal carcinoma and malignant hydrothorax. The response rate was an astonishing 40.9 percent for the patients treated with LAK/IL-2 plus goji LBP, while the response rate for patients treated with LAK/IL-2 alone was only 16.1 percent. They also observed that the remission of cancers in patients treated with LAK/IL-2 plus goji lasted significantly longer than those treated without goji. Their results indicated that goji berry polysaccharides can be used as an adjuvant in cancer therapy. Another study from China showed LBP increased the sensitivity to radiation therapy and enhanced the immune system for cancer patients. In one study on a group of cancer patients, the goji berry triggered an increase in both lymphocyte transformation rate and white blood cell count (measures of immune function). The effect and the mechanism of LBP on inhibiting the growth of human leukemia HL-60 cells were examined. LBP could inhibit the growth of these leukemia cells, and also could induce their death (apoptosis). Lewis Lung cancer cells were transplanted in C57 BL mice, and the anticancer effects of both goji polysaccharides and radiation were measured. Following the test, it was concluded that goji enhanced the effects of radiation in combating Lewis Lung cancer. Cardiovascular Health The accumulation of lipid peroxides in the blood can lead to cardiovascular disease, heart attack, atherosclerosis and stroke. Our blood contains the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) to fight against lipid peroxidation, but levels of SOD decrease as we age. In a clinical study, goji berry consumption was accompanied by a remarkable 40 percent increase in SOD levels, and a decrease in lipid peroxides of an impressive 65 percent. In another study, vital red blood cells were protected by flavonoids found in goji berries. The protective effects of the total flavonoids of Lycium barbarum goji berries on lipid peroxidation in liver mitochondria and red blood cells of rats induced by oxygen radicals was investigated by Huang Y et al (1999) in China. They observed that the mitochondria lipid peroxidation was significantly inhibited by the total flavonoids of Lycium barbarum and the fluidity of mitochondria membrane was also protected effectively. The shape of red blood cell has remained intact for those with the addition of total goji berry flavonoids, while the shape of the control red blood cells was significantly damaged by oxygen radicals. Diabetes (adult-onset, non insulin-dependent) Goji has been used in China for the treatment of adult-onset diabetes for many years, as it is said to balance blood sugar and insulin response. Gastrointestinal Disorders The Mongolian Institute of Traditional Medicine reported that goji has been used in the treatment of atrophic gastritis, which is defined as weakened digestion due to reduced stomach activity. Patients consumed10 grams of the whole fruits each time, three times daily before meals for two months and longer with excellent results. Hypertension (high blood pressure) The effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) on endothelial function were observed by Jia YX et al (1998) in China. Their results showed that the increase of blood pressure in the hypertensive rats could be prevented significantly by the treatment with goji LBP. Immunity In a review of research on the goji berry appearing in Recent Advances in Chinese Herbal Drugs, Dr. Zhou Jinhuang points out that polysaccharides from goji berries enhance cell-mediated and humoral immune responses. Even at a dose of just 5-10 mg/kg daily for one week (equivalent to 2 - 4 oz. of standardized goji juice), LBP polysaccharides could increase activity of the body’s most powerful disease-fighting immune cells (T-cells, cytotoxic T-cells and natural killer cells) in laboratory animals. Many studies have shown the goji berry to increase the lymphocyte transformation rate and improve the macrophage phagocytic function in animals. LBP assists spleen lymphocyte transformation induced by Concavalin A. LBP increases the antibody reaction to T-cell-dependent antigen (SRBC), which means that LBP selectively strengthens the T-cell immune response. Infertility Goji berries have long been used by Asian physicians for the treatment ofinfertility. However, the active ingredients and the mechanism of actionremain unknown. Wang Y et al (2002) tried to explore this area by studying the effect of goji polysaccharides (LBP) on cultured sperm epithelial cells. They reported that LBP inhibited hyperthermia-induced structural damage in murine seminiferous epithelium, in vitro. They also found that the goji polysaccharides extended the life of the cells. Oxidative stress was reported to be a major cause of structural degradation and cell death in testicular cells. Wang Y et al (2002) assayed the effect of LBP on ultra-violet (UV) light-induced lipid peroxidation and cytochrome c reduction by free radicals. They found that the polysaccharides of goji berry were potent inhibitors of both reactions. Their results demonstrated the anti-oxidant mechanism of action for the protective effect of LBP and provided a scientific basis for the traditional use of goji berry for treatment of infertility. Liver Protection A new cerebroside was isolated from the goji berry that could protect the liver cells of rats from the toxicity induced by carbon tetrachloride. In a further study, Kim SY et al (1999) postulated that the Lycium cerebrosides may preserve hepatic mitochondrial levels of glutathione by scavenging reactive oxygen species produced and thereby reduce lipid peroxidation and cellular damage. Obesity The goji berry has also been tested as an anti-obesity drug. Patients were given a tea made of the berries each morning and each afternoon. Results were excellent with most patients losing significant weight. In an animal study, it was shown that goji polysaccharides enhanced the conversion of food into energy, and reduced body weight. Periodontal Disease The effects of goji on attachment and growth of human gingival fibroblasts to root surfaces in vitro were investigated by Liu B (1992) at Fourth Military Medical University in Xian, China. His results revealed that LBP (goji polysaccharides), even at low doses, could improve attachment and growth of fibroblast on the planed diseased root surfaces to a certain extent. His results suggested that goji may improve the formation of new attachment of periodontal tissue. Sexual Dysfunction The goji berry has been given to treat sexual impotence. It was reported that by taking the berry orally, it could markedly increase androgen levels in the blood, making patients feel more energetic. The goji berry is also legendary for helping to spark the passions. In fact, an old Chinese proverb cautions men who are traveling far from their wives and families: "He who travels one thousand kilometers from home should not eat goji!" Vision Improvement Goji berries were very popular for their vision improvement properties in ancient China. Modern Chinese scientists found goji berries able to reduce dark adapting time and improve vision under subdued light.Physiologic scotoma (blind spots) decreased and vitamin A increased in patients after taking goji berries. Article in Women's World Magazine (3-2-2004) titled "The Amazing Asian Super-Juice that can add 20 years to your life" pointed out that Dr. Earl Mindell said that no plant in all of Asian medicine even approaches the benefits of the Himalayan Goji berry and went on to list some of the Goji's many benefits Top 24 Health Benefits of Goji 1) Extends life, protecting your body from premature aging through its powerful antioxidant action 2) Increases your energy and strength, especially when fighting disease 3) Makes you feel and look younger. Goji stimulates the secretion of hGH (human growth hormone), the "youth hormone." 4) Maintains healthy blood pressure 5) Reduces cholesterol 6) Promotes normal blood sugar in early adult-onset diabetes 7) Enhances sexual function and treats sexual dysfunction 8) Helps you lose weight 9) Relieves headaches and dizziness 10) Relieves insomnia and improves quality of sleep 11) Supports eye health and improves your vision 12) Strengthens your heart 13) Improves disease resistance 14) Builds strong blood, enhancing production of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets 15) Supports healthy liver function 16) Treats menopausal symptoms 17) Prevents morning sickness in the first trimester of pregnancy 18) Improves fertility 19) Strengthens your muscles and bones 20) Improves your memory and recall ability 21) Supports normal kidney function 22) Helps chronic dry cough 23) Alleviates anxiety and stress 24) Promotes cheerfulness and brightens your spirit The last property explains why goji is called the "happy berry." |