Goji Berries

Medically Reviewed by Kathleen M. Zelman, RD, LD, MPH on November 10, 2022
2 min read

Have you been wondering about the health benefits of goji berries and goji juice? Some claim that the goji berry is a fountain of youth.

But does it really live up to those claims? And do dried goji berries have side effects? Here are answers to your questions.

The goji berry, also called the wolfberry, is a bright orange-red berry that comes from a shrub that's native to China. In Asia, goji berries have been eaten for generations in the hope of living longer.

Over time, people have used goji berries to try to treat many common health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, fever, and age-related eye problems. Goji berries, which some brand a “superfood,” are eaten raw, cooked, or dried (like raisins) and are used in herbal teas, juices, wines, and medicines.

Goji berries are rich in nutrients. Some early studies using goji berry juice found there may be some possible benefits that included:

  • A feeling of well-being and calmness
  • Better athletic performance
  • Better sleep
  • Weight loss
  • A boost to your immune system
  • Higher antioxidant levels

Many berries are good for you. It's not clear whether goji berries are better than other types of berries or if goji berry supplements would have the same health benefits as the berries themselves.

Goji berries offer plenty of vitamins and minerals such as:

  • Vitamin C
  • Fiber
  • Iron
  • Vitamin A

They’re also a good source of protein and antioxidants.

Goji berries could interact with some drugs. If you take warfarin (a blood thinner), you may want to avoid them. Goji berries may also interact with diabetes drugs and blood pressure drugs, so talk with your doctor first.

Otherwise, it's probably safe to eat goji berries in moderation.

Check with your doctor before taking any diet supplements.

There are many ways to get goji berries into your diet:

  • Eat them raw.
  • Use them in cooking.
  • Drink goji fruit juice.
  • Take a goji supplement.
  • Use them in an herbal tea.