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Organic Lycil Berry Extract

Also known as: Goji berry, wolfberry, Organic Lycil Berry Extract, Lycium barbarum

Overview

Lycium barbarum, commonly known as goji berry or wolfberry, is a fruit native to East Asia with a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. As a supplement, it is often available as an extract standardized for its key bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, carotenoids, and flavonoids. This ingredient is primarily utilized for its potential to support metabolic health, modulate immune responses, provide antioxidant protection, and contribute to ocular and cardiovascular well-being. While research on L. barbarum is ongoing and includes a growing number of clinical trials and meta-analyses, the overall evidence quality ranges from low to moderate, with systematic reviews often calling for more rigorous, larger-scale randomized controlled trials to solidify its efficacy.

Benefits

Lycium barbarum offers several evidence-based benefits. A meta-analysis indicated that supplementation significantly reduces triglycerides and increases HDL cholesterol, suggesting a role in managing dyslipidemia. Clinical trials have shown that daily goji berry intake can lead to reductions in abdominal fat, improved lipid profiles, and enhanced antioxidant status in individuals with metabolic syndrome. Its polysaccharides and flavonoids contribute to significant antioxidative effects, reducing oxidative stress markers and supporting immune function. Furthermore, some evidence, attributed to its carotenoid content, suggests benefits for ocular health, particularly in age-related macular degeneration, and potential neuroprotective effects. These benefits are generally modest but clinically relevant, typically manifesting after several weeks (e.g., 4-6 weeks) of consistent supplementation.

How it works

The therapeutic effects of Lycium barbarum are primarily attributed to its bioactive compounds: Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs), carotenoids (such as zeaxanthin), and flavonoids. LBPs play a crucial role in modulating immune responses, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase. Carotenoids, particularly zeaxanthin, accumulate in ocular tissues, where they protect against oxidative damage. Collectively, these compounds influence various biological pathways, including lipid metabolism, leading to improved lipid profiles and better glucose regulation. While polysaccharides exert systemic effects, the absorption of carotenoids is optimized when consumed with dietary fat.

Side effects

Lycium barbarum extracts are generally considered safe, with a low incidence of adverse effects. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort is a rare but possible side effect. While no significant drug interactions or contraindications have been firmly established, caution is advised for individuals taking immunosuppressants or anticoagulants due to potential immune-modulating and blood-thinning effects, respectively. It is crucial to ensure product quality and standardization to avoid contamination or adulteration, which could pose additional risks. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, should consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation.

Dosage

Effective dosages of Lycium barbarum in clinical trials typically range from 10 to 30 grams per day of dried fruit or an equivalent standardized extract. For polysaccharide extracts, studies have investigated doses around 1.5 grams per day. To observe benefits, a supplementation duration of at least 4 weeks is generally recommended, with effects often appearing after 4-6 weeks. Absorption of certain components, particularly carotenoids, is enhanced when the supplement is taken with meals containing dietary fat. While specific upper limits are not well-defined, adherence to recommended dosages is advised, and individuals should consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

FAQs

Is it safe long-term?

Current evidence supports the safety of Lycium barbarum for up to several months of use; however, data on very long-term supplementation are limited.

How soon do effects appear?

Benefits on lipid profiles and oxidative stress markers typically begin to appear after 4-6 weeks of consistent supplementation.

Can it replace medications?

No, Lycium barbarum is an adjunct supplement and should not replace prescribed medications for metabolic, cardiovascular, or other medical conditions.

Are organic forms superior?

There is no direct evidence suggesting organic forms are superior to conventional ones; quality and standardization of the extract are more critical factors.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10545344/ – This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigated the effects of Lycium barbarum on lipid profiles. It found that L. barbarum supplementation significantly reduced triglycerides and increased HDL cholesterol in adults with dyslipidemia, with fruit forms showing stronger effects. The study concluded that while promising, more high-quality RCTs are needed.
https://www.explorationpub.com/Journals/eff/Article/101070 – This narrative review provides an overview of the immune-modulating, antioxidant, and metabolic benefits of Lycium barbarum. It highlights the key bioactive compounds responsible for these effects, such as polysaccharides and carotenoids, offering a comprehensive background on the ingredient's traditional uses and modern research.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5480053/ – This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of daily goji berry supplementation (14 g/day) in patients with metabolic syndrome over 45 days. The study found that supplementation led to significant reductions in abdominal fat, improved lipid profiles, and enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase, supporting its metabolic benefits.