Goji Berry Attributes:

Legend has it that the health benefits of the Goji berry were an accidental discovery. Outside a famous Buddhist temple was a wall covered in Goji berries. Over the years, hundreds of berries fell in a well near the wall. Frequent visitors to the temple who drank water from this well had the ruddy complexion of good health. Gradually, the benefits were documented and spread among the nearby communities. As a result, Goji berries have enjoyed a privileged place in Asian culture for thousands of years.

Currently the type most desireable are those that are organically grown with seeds coming from the Tibetan Himalayan region and commonly named Goji Berry. Its botanical name is 'Lycium Eleagnus Barbarum'. There are many species of 'lesser quality' berries such as the chinese 'wolf berry' or:

The most important thing to know about Goji berries and the plants is to know where and how they were produced. Insist that you get Authentic Goji Berries grown from seeds which originated from Tibet and those that are grown organically. Most of the lesser berries today are imported from china and are produced in mass quantity. There are only a few places in the United States which produce organically grown Goji Berries. If they weren't organically grown like ours are there is simply no way to tell how much pesticides and fertilizer was used from these other large production companies. We use specially formulated soil to ensure our plants get all of the minerals and vitamins needed to produce the most healthy plants and berries.

These plants will tolerate a wide range of zones, they can tolerate heat in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit and can stand temperatures down to -15 degrees Fahrenheit. They can be grown indoors or out in full sun or shade. They can tolerate most soils but as with any other plant i would recommend somewhat well drained soil. Once established (a few weeks) they are fast growers. Typically they will produce berries in their second year of growth and produce a maximum output in their fourth year. They produce berries all year long except for the late fall and winter months. They can be pruned and trained to grow as a thick bush or a tree and are self polinating. We provide seedlings or plants a year old or older. In a word, these plants are truly amazing. Try putting a few of these in your garden this year!

Here are a FEW of the amazing benefits of this colorful berry which originated from Tibet:

• Boosts the immune system

• ORAC Scale Scores:
  TIBETAN GOJI BERRIES – 25,300
  Prunes – 5770
  Raisins – 2830
  Blueberries – 2400
  Black berries – 2036
  Strawberries – 1540
  Oranges – 730
  Carrots – 210
  

• Prevents free radicals

• Anti tumor effects

• Positive effects on blood pressure, sugar levels, brain and heart vessels

• Lowers cholesterol

• Assists in weight loss by curbing appetite

• Increases energy levels

• Brightens and improves eyesight

• Nourishes the liver and kidneys

• Slows hair loss and graying

• Improves sleeping patterns

• Elevates mood

• Increases libido

• They contain the following complex compounds: Cyperone, Solavetivone, Betaine, Beta-Sitoserol and Physalin.

• Contains Vitamin B1, B2, B6, and Vitamin E and 13% protein.

• Goji Berrys reportedly contain 18 Amino, more Beta Carotene than carrots, more Iron than spinach, 21 Trace Minerals and high levels of antioxidants.