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Friday, June 15, 2012

Goji berries

The ‘Goji’ berry is known as a Tibetan berry because it was traditionally used in the Indo Tibetan Mongolian culture for centuries. The geographic area of this ancient culture included Bhutan and all of Mongolia and a great portion of China, Tibet had much larger borders at that time. The traditional Tibetan medicinal plant collection areas remain in the same locations irreverent of political border and territory changes. The Tibetan Lycium berry ‘Goji’ was used in this ancient culture as a food because of its neutral energetic nature (neither cold or hot nature) and used in traditional medicines for the same reason because it could be utilized in a broad spectrum of Tibetan medical formulas. ‘Goji’ is the name that refers to the Tibetan variety of Lycium that is indigenous to the traditional Tibetan and Mongolian botanical collection regions and used for centuries by Tibetan doctors and the nomadic people of those areas. Fairly recently, beginning around 1996 the name ‘Goji’ was ‘borrowed’ and used to market another similar lycium berry, the Chinese ‘wolfberry’ and that caused market confusion and still remains a marketing error today. Local harvesters are careful to distinguish the Tibetan Lycium variety ‘Goji’ berry from its distantly related offspring, the Chinese Wolfberry (Lycium barbarum), pointing out that its nutrient makeup and energetic qualities differ, as do the regions and conditions within which these two different Lycium berries are growing. The Tibetan Goji Berry company is proud to continue to be a quality presence and Goji supplier and to have been part of the process of revealing Tibetan lycium to the world, in serving the world community for over thirty years with supportive customer service and quality control of the many harvests of this precious Tibetan Goji berry. May there always be a bountiful harvest! Since ancient times, goji berries have been used to treat a variety of different ailments. In fact, residents in Tibet and China still use goji berries as a powerful superfood. Traditionally these berries were used in Chinese medicine by monks. Goji berries have been used for thousands of years and are still revered to this day as one of the most powerful and nutrient dense superfoods available also known as gojibär. It is believed that goji berries were discovered by a doctor during a study of a group of people living deep in the Himalayan mountains. This society was known for its good health. In fact, many of the residents lived well into their hundreds with few health problems. Many didn’t even suffer from grey hair. He wondered what these people were doing to protect their health so effectively. Upon further study, this doctor discovered that goji berries grew naturally near the wells from which these residents drank. Goji berries would fall into the water and infuse it with their health promoting nutrients. Those living in this village also regularly ate these berries. It is believed that regular consumption of these berries led to the health and vitality experienced by those in this village. Here are some interesting facts about goji berries: •ORAC testing has revealed that goji berries have antioxidant levels more than ten times higher than blueberries and about three times higher than pomegranates. •Goji berries are an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, vitamin C and iron. •Per ounce, goji berries contain more vitamin C than oranges. Goji berries may hold benefits for many ailments and conditions. They are great for the eyes since they contain high levels of beta carotene. They are an excellent choice for immune system support since they contain more vitamin C per ounce than an orange. Traditionally goji berries have been used to treat liver problems, depression, allergies, insomnia and diabetes. They may also lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Many people that regularly consume these berries report feeling happier. In fact, some call the gojiberry the ‘happy berry’. They also frequently notice an increase in energy and immune function. Goji berries are easy to eat and delicious as well. They also are a great source of protein. Since they contain more than 20 vitamins and minerals, goji berries contain many of the nutrients needed for optimal health and vitality. They can be enjoyed by the handful when dried, fresh or frozen. Goji berry juices may also be available. You can also soak dried berries overnight and then puree in the blender for a make at home goji berry drink. Goji berries can also be added to smoothies, yogurts, cereals or salads. Goji berries have a strong and unique flavor. Many people find that these berries pair excellently with nuts. Try them with cashews or almonds for a delicious treat. Of the many superfruits available, goji berries are one of the most revered. This small red berry has been used in medicine for thousands of years. It is popular around the world as a tasty way to get more nutrients and antioxidants. Here are just a few ways Goji supports a healthy life. •Protects the liver — less fatigue •Helps eyesight – supports kidney function •Increases metabolic activity — burns fat and aids digestion •Boosts immune function – Lymphocytes, Interleukin 2, Immunoglobulin •Improves circulation — supports distribution of nutrients and quality energy levels •Improves sexual function and fertility — boosts libido and energy •Promotes longevity — brings life support to the blood and all internal organs •Rich in phytonutrients, antioxidants, particularly carotenoids such as beta-carotene and zeaxanthin. •Test studies are showing that Goji berries may prevent the growth of cancer cells, reduce blood glucose, and lower cholesterol levels. •Goji has unique bioactive polysaccharides (LBP) — key markers for building immune response