π Common Names (6 Languages)
β Evidence-Based Benefits
Superfood and longevity berry in TCM for 2000+ years. RCT shows daily goji berry consumption improves immune function - increased lymphocytes and IgG (PMID: 18447631). Systematic review demonstrates eye health benefits - may protect against age-related macular degeneration via zeaxanthin content (PMID: 21169874). Rich in antioxidants (ORAC 25,000+), vitamin A, C, iron, zinc. May improve sleep quality, mood, energy. Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) primary bioactive.
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π¬ Clinical Trials & Evidence
βοΈ Evidence-Based Research: Clinical trials provide the highest level of evidence for herbal efficacy and safety. The trials listed below represent peer-reviewed research registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. Each trial includes detailed protocols, patient populations, interventions tested, and measurable outcomes. Click links to access full trial details and published results.
RCT: Immune function improvement via increased lymphocytes
Review: Eye health and macular degeneration protection
π Find More Clinical Trials
Search for additional ongoing and completed trials investigating this herb's therapeutic effects:
π‘ Research Tip: Use both common name and scientific name when searching for comprehensive results. Filter by "Completed" trials to find published outcomes.
π Drug Interactions
β οΈ CRITICAL SAFETY INFORMATION
Herb-drug interactions can be serious and potentially life-threatening. Always inform your healthcare provider about all herbs, supplements, and medications you are taking. The interactions listed below are supported by clinical evidence and case reports. Citations link to peer-reviewed research on PubMed.
π Evidence-Based Interactions: Each interaction below includes research citations (PMID links) documenting the mechanism, clinical significance, and management recommendations. Click citations to access full studies.
β οΈ Anticoagulants (Warfarin)
Risk: Increased bleeding risk - INR elevation
Mechanism: May enhance anticoagulant effects
Action: Monitor INR very closely. May need warfarin dose adjustment
Antidiabetic Medications
Effect: May lower blood glucose
Action: Monitor blood sugar levels closely
Antihypertensives
Effect: May lower blood pressure
Action: Monitor BP regularly
CYP450 Substrates (CYP2C9, CYP2C19)
Effect: May inhibit drug metabolism
Action: Monitor drug levels with chronic high-dose use
π Key Interaction Databases & Resources
- Natural Medicines Database: Professional herb-drug interaction checker
- PubMed: Search for latest interaction research
- Drugs.com: Drug interaction checker
- Micromedex: Hospital-grade interaction database (subscription required)
π‘ Clinical Tip: Show your healthcare provider this page and the linked research citations when discussing potential interactions.
β οΈ Safety Information
Adverse Events
Excellent safety - consumed as food. Very rare: allergic reactions (Solanaceae family - related to tomatoes). May cause digestive upset if excessive. May interact with anticoagulants - increased bleeding risk. Rare reports of nausea, vomiting with very high doses. Generally safe in pregnancy/breastfeeding at food amounts. May lower blood pressure and blood sugar - monitor.
β Contraindications
May interact with anticoagulants (warfarin) - MONITOR INR closely. Caution with antidiabetic medications (may lower blood sugar). May interact with blood pressure medications. DISCONTINUE 2 weeks before surgery. Allergy to Solanaceae family (tomatoes, peppers). Generally safe in pregnancy/breastfeeding at culinary amounts. May interact with CYP450 substrates. Ensure quality - contamination with pesticides possible.
𧬠Mechanism of Action
Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP), zeaxanthin, and carotenoids provide: (1) Powerful antioxidant - protects against oxidative stress, (2) Immune modulation - enhances T cells, NK cells, macrophages, (3) Neuroprotective - protects retinal ganglion cells, (4) Anti-aging via telomere protection and reduced cellular senescence, (5) Hepatoprotective and nephroprotective, (6) Blood glucose regulation, (7) Vision protection via high zeaxanthin content.
π Dosage & Administration
5-15g dried berries daily (traditional) OR 100-300mg standardized extract daily. Fresh berries: 20-30g daily. Can be eaten raw, in tea, smoothies, oatmeal. For immune support: 10g daily. For eye health: 13-15g daily. Juice: 120ml daily. Safe for continuous daily use - widely consumed as food. Effects on immunity after 4-8 weeks, eye health benefits long-term.
βοΈ Note: Consult healthcare provider for appropriate dosing, especially if taking medications.
π Additional Resources
π WHO Monograph
Available in WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants
π¬ PubMed Search
π§ͺ ClinicalTrials.gov
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Data Retrieval Date: November 29, 2025
Compiled by: Sheraz Ahmed
License: CC BY-SA 4.0
Citation: Ahmed, S. (2025). Medicinal Herbs Database. Clinical Corner. https://welovelmc.com/medical-tools.htm