Goji berry, or Lycium barbarum and L. chinensen, is a fruit of Asian origin, which has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for a few years for its anti-oxidant power and in the treatment of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and atherosclerosis.
There are goji berry supplements available that claim to be anti-oxidants, promote well being and assist in weight loss.
It is important to be clear that, so far, there is no scientific medical evidence that prove these properties. There are some studies that have addressed its use for the treatment of ocular alterations as a consequence of diabetes (diabetic retinopathy), still without large scale application, only on an experimental basis.
In addition, there are cases of anaphylaxis, autoimmune hepatitis and bleeding (through the interaction of the fruit with warfarin or marevan ®) associated with the consumption of goji berry.
Finally, there is no evidence to date that consumption of goji berry in natura, or through supplements, brings benefits and its use is not indicated without medical evaluation.
