Fruit

Wolfberry

Provisional Moderate ScoreCompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 15, 2026Last updated March 15, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Wolfberry (Lycium barbarum) contains bioactive polysaccharides (LBPs), polyphenols including quercetin and chlorogenic acid, and carotenoids that exert antioxidant effects through free radical scavenging and enzyme modulation. These compounds enhance SOD, CAT, and GPx enzyme activity while reducing inflammatory markers TNF-α and IL-6 through Nrf2 pathway activation.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryFruit

GroupFruit

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary KeywordWolfberry benefits

Wolfberry — botanical close-up

Found in

Eternity

Functional mushroom gummies with lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, chaga and turkey tail.

Exact formula relationship verified against the current product label.

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Enhances immune health

High vitamin C, polysaccharides, and antioxidants bolster immune function and protect against oxidative stress.

Supports eye health

Zeaxanthin protects the retina, reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and supporting visual acuity.

Contributes to cardiovascular health

Helps reduce cholesterol, improves circulation, and regulates blood pressure through potassium and fiber.

Promotes cognitive health

Exhibits neuroprotective effects, potentially improving memory, focus, and overall brain function.

Aids digestive health

Polysaccharides support gut health, promote microbiome balance, and contribute to gastrointestinal wellness.

Acts as an adaptogen

Helps balance stress hormones, enhancing energy, vitality, and the body's ability to adapt to stressors.

Supports skin vitality

Collagen-boosting vitamin C and anti-aging antioxidants contribute to healthy, radiant skin.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Wolfberry (Lycium barbarum), also known as Goji berry, is a nutrient-dense fruit native to temperate and subtropical regions of Asia, particularly China, Tibet, and the Himalayas. Revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is prized for its immune-boosting, eye-protective, and adaptogenic properties.

“Wolfberries have been revered in Chinese culture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over two millennia, believed to extend life, improve vitality, and enhance vision. Known as the "red diamonds" of the Himalayas, they were consumed by monks for energy and meditation, and in Tibetan medicine, supported liver health and immunity. Their inclusion in ancient Chinese weddings symbolized longevity.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Numerous scientific studies, including clinical trials and in vitro research, support Wolfberry's (Goji berry) efficacy in enhancing immune function, protecting eye health (due to zeaxanthin), and providing significant antioxidant benefits. Emerging evidence also suggests adaptogenic properties, cardiovascular support, and positive impacts on cognitive and metabolic health. Further research is ongoing to fully elucidate all therapeutic applications.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Vitamins: Vitamin C (immune function, collagen synthesis), B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin) (cognitive function, energy metabolism) - Minerals: Potassium (blood pressure regulation), Iron (red blood cell formation), Zinc (immune function, skin health) - Phytochemicals/Bioactives: Zeaxanthin (eye health), Polysaccharides (immune modulation, gut health), Flavonoids, Polyphenols (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory) - Macronutrients: Dietary Fiber (digestive health)

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Wolfberry polysaccharides (LBPs) and polyphenols scavenge free radicals while boosting antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, POD, GR, GPx, and APX. Flavonoids like quercetin activate the Nrf2 pathway to increase detoxification enzyme expression including GPx and UGT. Anti-inflammatory effects occur through reduction of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and COX-2 inflammatory mediators.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Current evidence is primarily from in vitro and animal studies, with limited human clinical trials available. Laboratory studies show fermentation increases total phenolics by 29.4% and flavonoids by 65.7% compared to raw fruit. In vitro research demonstrates dose-dependent inhibition of MCF-7 breast cancer cell proliferation through IGF-I reduction and mitochondrial disruption. Human clinical trials with specific numerical outcomes are needed to validate therapeutic applications.

Also Known As

Lycium barbarumGoji berryChinese wolfberryLycium barbarum fruit (LBF)GouqiziRed diamond

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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