Goji berries or Chinese wolfberries are currently one of the so-called superfoods. These small fruits, which resemble native rose hips in shape, are said to have almost magical healing properties. The “nutrient miracle from the Far East” should have a positive effect on overall health, namely strengthening the immune system and heart while lowering blood lipid levels. Is that true? There is a heated debate about this on the internet. But we agree: they are definitely delicious and very versatile!
Goji berries have an oval, elongated shape and are bright red to orange. The fruits of the common buckthorn have been revered in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. In Tibet they even celebrate festivals in honor of the fruit.
The exact origin is historically unknown, but it is believed that the plants spread from the Chinese province of Ningxia (in north-central China) throughout Asia, and later also to Europe, North America and North Africa. The deciduous shrubs are very easy to care for and cold-resistant and can tolerate temperatures of up to -25°C. Nevertheless, they are only very rarely grown in this country.
Since importing fresh fruit is difficult, we mainly buy dried fruit in muesli, teas, jams and as juice, fruit powder or extract. But it's not just the fruits of the common buckthornprocessed into food, but also the roots, bark, seeds and leaves.
The dried berries taste slightly sweet and are particularly aromatic. The precious berries can be used in spicy dishes, game dishes, as an addition to sauces, etc. where you would like to conjure up unusual flavor nuances.
The fruits can also be perfectly stored inSmoothies, fruit salads or puddings as a fruity accent. It is always better to soak the dry berries in water beforehand.
The most nutrient-rich fruit in the world contains A and B vitamins, calcium, iron, carotenoids, polysaccharides, flavonoids, natural antioxidants, a total of 21 important minerals and trace elements. The dried fruits probably have less rich active ingredients than the fresh fruits. However, the effects of these plants are said to be diverse.
The fruits generally help to promote health and strengthen the immune system. They also prove to be a helpful remedy for diabetes, for strengthening the immune system, for stress, for high blood pressure, for heart disease, and for problems with the eyes, kidneys and liver. In cosmetics, the fruit is particularly valued for anti-aging. There is also talk of a possible positive effect of goji berries on diseases such as Alzheimer's, although this is still being researched.
The benefits sound good, but have not yet been officially proven by studies. The fruits could also interfere with the effects of medications, which could have serious consequences.
When buying dried berries, you should always make sure that the berries have been tested for residues by an independent institute or have a German organic seal.
Other informative websites on this topic:Goji berry guide
