Lycium Chinense: Complete Medicinal Profile
Lycium chinense, also known as the Chinese wolfberry, is a plant species native to Asia that belongs to the nightshade family.
The medicinal properties of Lycium chinense are attributed to its rich content of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which have been traditionally used to treat various health conditions.
The health benefits of this plant include improving vision, boosting the immune system, and reducing inflammation, as well as exhibiting anti-aging and anti-cancer properties.
Lycium chinense is often used in herbal preparations such as teas, capsules, and tinctures, and is also commonly consumed as a dried fruit or added to soups and stews in traditional Chinese medicine.
Study of the Day
According to Journal of ethnopharmacology, Lycium chinense has medicinal purposes related to anti-aging, improving eyesight, and anti-fatigue effects, which are attributed to its pharmacological components such as polysaccharides, zeaxanthin dipalmitate, vitamins, betaine, and mixed extracts.
This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Lycium chinense.
Table of Contents
Uses and Benefits
Lycium chinense is used to treat a variety of health issues due to its numerous benefits.
This plant has been shown to improve vision health by preventing age-related macular degeneration, reducing eye fatigue, and even treating cataracts.
Additionally, it has been used to boost the immune system, alleviate symptoms of diabetes, and even help with weight management.
The health benefits of Lycium chinense also include reducing inflammation, improving cardiovascular health, and even exhibiting anti-cancer properties, making it a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle.
The health benefits of Lycium chinense are listed below.
- Antioxidant properties: Lycium chinense has been found to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation in the body.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: The plant has been traditionally used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including arthritis and other joint-related issues.
- Eye health: The high content of vitamin a and other antioxidants in lycium chinense makes it beneficial for eye health, potentially reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
- Cardiovascular health: The plant's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may also help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.
- Cancer prevention: Studies have suggested that lycium chinense may have potential anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
- Neuroprotective effects: The plant's antioxidants and other compounds may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases, such as alzheimer's and parkinson's, by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
- Immune system support: Lycium chinense has been traditionally used to boost the immune system, potentially helping to prevent illnesses and infections by stimulating the body's natural defense mechanisms.
Here are the best health benefits of Lycium chinense.
Actions
Lycium chinense has been found to exhibit a range of therapeutic actions, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects on the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and immune system.
Its adaptogenic properties enable it to modulate the endocrine system, while its hepatoprotective and nephroprotective actions benefit the liver and kidneys.
Additionally, Lycium chinense has been shown to possess vasodilatory, cardio-protective, and neuroprotective properties, which can affect the cardiovascular and nervous systems.
Its antiviral and antimicrobial actions also suggest therapeutic benefits for the immune system and skin.
The therapeutic actions of Lycium chinense are listed below.
- Antioxidant: Helps protect cells from oxidative damage and inflammation
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and alleviates conditions like arthritis and skin irritations
- Antimicrobial: Has properties that inhibit the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi
- Antitumor: May help prevent or slow the growth of tumors and cancer cells
- Cardiotonic: Helps to strengthen and support heart health, reducing blood pressure and improving circulation
- Hepatoprotective: Protects the liver from damage and promotes liver health
- Neuroprotective: May help protect against neurodegenerative diseases like alzheimer's and parkinson's
Constituents
Lycium chinense has been found to contain a rich array of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol, which have potent antioxidant properties and can help protect cells from damage.
The plant also contains various phenolic acids like ferulic acid and caffeic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Additionally, Lycium chinense is rich in tannins, alkaloids like lysine and valine, and anthocyanins, which are responsible for its antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic properties.
The bioactive constituents present in this plant, including saponins, terpenoids, and glycosides, can also exhibit anti-aging, anti-viral, and immunomodulatory effects.
The bioactive constituents of Lycium chinense are listed below.
- Betulinic acid: A triterpenoid with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
- Flavonoids: A class of plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Anthocyanins: A class of flavonoids responsible for the red, purple, and blue colors of fruits and vegetables
- Triterpenoids: A class of plant compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
- Catechins: A class of flavanols found in tea and other plants with antioxidant properties
- Ellagic acid: A polyphenol found in fruits and nuts with antioxidant and anti-cancer properties
- Vitamins c and e: Antioxidants found in the plant that help protect against cell damage and oxidative stress
Parts
The most commonly used parts of Lycium chinense are its fruit, roots, and leaves, which have been employed for various health purposes.
The fruit, also known as Goji berries, is rich in antioxidants and is often used to support eye health, improve cardiovascular function, and enhance cognitive abilities.
The roots of Lycium chinense are valued for their anti-inflammatory properties and are commonly used to treat respiratory issues, such as bronchitis and asthma, as well as to alleviate pain and swelling.
The leaves, on the other hand, have been traditionally used to treat fever, sore throats, and digestive problems, and are also used as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress relief.
The following table displays the most used parts of of Lycium chinense and examples of ailments they help cure.
| Parts | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Fruit | Cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease |
| Root | Fatigue, low blood pressure, impotence |
| Leaves | Inflammation, oxidative stress, neuroprotection |
Preparations
Lycium chinense most common herbal preparations are infusions, decoctions, and tinctures, which are widely used for various health purposes.
Infusions, such as Lycium tea, are often consumed to improve vision, enhance immune function, and reduce stress and anxiety levels.
Decoctions, like Lycium chinense extracts, are used to treat eye disorders, promote wound healing, and alleviate symptoms of diabetes and hypertension.
Tinctures, including Lycium chinense extract tincture, are commonly used to boost energy levels, improve sleep quality, and support cardiovascular health, among other benefits.
The herbal preparations of Lycium chinense are listed below.
- Lycium chinense infusion: A tea made from dried lycium chinense berries, used to support eye health and reduce inflammation.
- Lycium chinense tincture: A concentrated liquid extract of lycium chinense berries, used to support eye health and immune function.
- Lycium chinense decoction: A liquid extract made by boiling lycium chinense roots and berries, used to support immune function and reduce inflammation.
- Lycium chinense salve: A topical cream or ointment made from lycium chinense berries or roots, used to support skin health and reduce inflammation.
- Lycium chinense capsules: A dietary supplement made from dried lycium chinense berries, used to support eye health and immune function.
- Lycium chinense extract powder: A powdered extract of lycium chinense berries or roots, used to support eye health and immune function.
- Lycium chinense infused oil: A topical oil made by infusing lycium chinense berries or roots in a carrier oil, used to support skin health and reduce inflammation.
Side Effects
Lycium chinense side effects are generally mild to moderate, but may include dizziness, headaches, and nausea in some individuals.
People most likely to experience these side effects are those with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions, as well as those taking medications such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, and certain antidepressants.
Additionally, individuals with allergies or sensitivities may experience symptoms like hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.
To minimize potential side effects, it is recommended to consume Lycium chinense in moderation, avoid consuming it with other medications or substances, and be cautious when using it in combination with other herbs or supplements.
The possible side effects of Lycium chinense are listed below.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels, which can be a concern for individuals with diabetes or those taking medications that lower blood sugar.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to lycium chinense, which can cause symptoms such as itching, hives, and difficulty breathing.
- Gastrointestinal upset: Consuming large amounts of lycium chinense may lead to stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea.
- Interactions with medications: Lycium chinense may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, and blood pressure medications.
- Increased bleeding risk: Consuming large amounts of lycium chinense may increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in individuals taking medications that thin the blood.
- Headaches and dizziness: Some people may experience headaches and dizziness after consuming lycium chinense, possibly due to the plant's flavonoid and anthocyanin content.
- Skin darkening: Prolonged consumption of lycium chinense may cause skin darkening, particularly on the face and hands, due to the plant's high anthocyanin content.