# Goji Berry (Lycium chinense)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/goji-berry
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-24
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Lycium chinense, Chinese wolfberry, Chinese boxthorn, Gou qi zi, Matrimony vine, Desert thorn, Lycium barbarum

## Overview

Goji berry (Lycium chinense) contains high levels of antioxidant polyphenols including chlorogenic acid and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside, along with bioactive L. chinense polysaccharides (LCP). These compounds provide cellular protection through [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing and may support [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) via polysaccharide-mediated pathways.

## Health Benefits

• Rich in [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) polyphenols including chlorogenic acid (526 μg/g) and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (159-629 μg/g) - evidence quality: compositional analysis only
• Contains L. chinense polysaccharides (LCP) with potential bioactive properties - evidence quality: structural characterization only
• High in essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid (49-59%) - evidence quality: compositional data only
• Source of vitamin C (48 mg/100g) and minerals like potassium - evidence quality: nutritional analysis only
• Contains catechins (348 mg/100g) and flavonols (116 mg/100g) - evidence quality: compositional studies only

## Mechanism of Action

Goji berry's chlorogenic acid (526 μg/g) and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (159-629 μg/g) neutralize [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) through electron donation and metal chelation. L. chinense polysaccharides (LCP) may modulate immune responses by binding to toll-like receptors and activating macrophages. The polyphenols also inhibit lipid peroxidation and support cellular antioxidant enzyme systems.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for goji berry is limited to compositional analyses and structural characterization studies. The [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) polyphenol content has been quantified through laboratory analysis, but human clinical trials evaluating health outcomes are lacking. L. chinense polysaccharides have undergone structural characterization to identify bioactive components, but efficacy data from controlled human studies is not available. More research is needed to validate the health benefits suggested by the ingredient's bioactive profile.

## Nutritional Profile

Goji berry (Lycium chinense) provides a dense nutritional profile per 100g dried weight. Macronutrients: carbohydrates 68-77g (predominantly as polysaccharides and simple sugars), protein 11-14g (containing all essential amino acids, notably glutamic acid and arginine), fat 1.5-3g (with linoleic acid comprising 49-59% of fatty acid fraction, followed by palmitic acid ~22% and oleic acid ~10%). Fiber content approximately 7-10g. Micronutrients: zeaxanthin dipalmitate (the dominant carotenoid) at 56-200mg per 100g dried berry — notably high bioavailability when consumed with dietary fat; beta-carotene 3-5mg/100g; vitamin C approximately 29-148mg/100g (wide range depending on cultivar and processing); riboflavin (B2) ~0.9mg/100g; thiamine (B1) ~0.15mg/100g. Minerals: potassium ~1100mg/100g, calcium ~112mg/100g, phosphorus ~150mg/100g, iron ~6-9mg/100g, zinc ~1.5mg/100g, selenium ~50μg/100g (notably high). Bioactive compounds: L. chinense polysaccharides (LCP) comprising galactose, arabinose, and rhamnose backbones; chlorogenic acid at 526μg/g; quercetin-3-O-rutinoside at 159-629μg/g; betaine ~0.1%. Bioavailability notes: zeaxanthan bioavailability is significantly enhanced by co-consumption with lipids; polyphenol absorption may be limited by the polysaccharide matrix; iron is non-heme form with reduced bioavailability compared to animal sources.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for L. chinense extracts, powder, or standardized forms are available in the scientific literature. Current research emphasizes compositional analysis over intervention studies. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Goji berries are generally recognized as safe for most adults when consumed as food. However, they may interact with warfarin and other anticoagulant medications, potentially increasing bleeding risk. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, particularly those with sensitivities to other nightshade family plants. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using goji berry supplements due to insufficient safety data.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier reveals no human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses with PubMed PMIDs for L. chinense. Available studies focus exclusively on compositional analysis and characterization of bioactive compounds rather than clinical outcomes.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Goji berry originates from traditional Chinese medicine, where fruits of Lycium species have been used historically. Specific traditional applications and duration of use for L. chinense are not detailed beyond its general bioactive context.

## Synergistic Combinations

Other [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)-rich berries, vitamin C sources, polyphenol-rich foods, traditional Chinese herbs

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much chlorogenic acid is in goji berries?

Goji berries contain approximately 526 μg of chlorogenic acid per gram of dried fruit. This antioxidant compound contributes to the berry's free radical scavenging properties and cellular protective effects.

### What are L. chinense polysaccharides in goji berries?

L. chinense polysaccharides (LCP) are complex carbohydrate molecules found in goji berries that have undergone structural characterization for potential bioactive properties. These polysaccharides may support immune function, though human clinical evidence is limited.

### Can goji berries interact with blood thinning medications?

Yes, goji berries may interact with warfarin and other anticoagulant medications, potentially increasing bleeding risk. Patients taking blood thinners should consult their healthcare provider before consuming goji berry supplements.

### How much quercetin is in goji berries?

Goji berries contain 159-629 μg of quercetin-3-O-rutinoside per gram, depending on variety and processing methods. This flavonoid glycoside provides antioxidant activity and contributes to the berry's polyphenol profile.

### Are goji berries safe during pregnancy?

The safety of goji berry supplements during pregnancy has not been established through clinical studies. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using goji berry products beyond normal dietary consumption.

### What is the bioavailability of goji berry polysaccharides and how does processing affect them?

Goji berry polysaccharides (LCP) are water-soluble compounds, making them more bioavailable when goji berries are consumed as a decoction or in liquid extracts compared to dried whole berries. Heat processing and fermentation may enhance polysaccharide extraction and potentially improve bioavailability, though human absorption studies are limited. The structural integrity of these polysaccharides can be affected by cooking temperature and duration, which influences their biological activity.

### How do goji berries compare to other antioxidant-rich berries like blueberries or acai berries?

Goji berries contain notably high levels of chlorogenic acid (526 μg/g) and quercetin derivatives, making their polyphenol profile distinct from blueberries, which are richer in anthocyanins. Unlike acai berries, goji berries provide significant amounts of essential fatty acids (49–59% linoleic acid), offering a more balanced nutrient composition. Direct efficacy comparisons in human studies are scarce, so differences in health outcomes remain largely based on compositional analysis rather than clinical evidence.

### Who is most likely to benefit from goji berry supplementation based on their nutritional composition?

Individuals seeking additional antioxidant polyphenols and essential fatty acids may benefit from goji berries, particularly those with limited access to diverse berry sources or specialized dietary needs. People following plant-based diets may find goji berries valuable due to their linoleic acid content, which supports skin barrier function and inflammation management. However, clinical evidence supporting specific health benefits remains limited to compositional data, so supplementation effectiveness varies by individual and health status.

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