Black Goji Berry is one kind of Goji berry, people are interested in this because of its very powerful performance as an anti-oxidant. Why does it work so well and what are the benefits of Black Goji berry? Is there any side effect and how to brew it? In this article, all will be transparent.

What Is Black Goji Berry?

Black goji berry also called “黑枸杞” (hei go qi) or Black Wolfberry in China, which is also called Lycium ruthenicum in Latin. In the West, people call it is “Russian box thorn”. It grows in the high Tibetan plateau of western China. In China market, the best source is from Qinghai Province.

Kindly remind us, all black goji berries are from the wild, no artificial planting. Origin is most important to keep the high quality.

What Are the Benefits Of Black Goji Berry?

We have clarified the benefits of red goji berry in another article “10 Tips Of Goji Berry Health Benefits”, as same as berry fruit, black goji also has similar functions listed below,

• Boost your immune system
• Nutritious
• Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory
• Fight Cancer
• Stabilize blood sugar
• Dry eyes
• Help weight loss
• Better Athletic performance
• Promote Skin health level
• Good source of vitamin C

Besides these benefits, black goji berry has higher antioxidant ability than red goji. That’s because it has a higher level of phytochemicals even red goji also are rich. Anthocyanins have an antioxidant role in plants against reactive oxygen species caused by abiotic stresses, such as overexposure to ultraviolet light and extreme temperatures. 

Anthocyanins are also considered secondary metabolites as a food additive with E number E163 (INS number 163); they are approved for use as a food additive in the EU, Australia, and New Zealand.

The highest recorded amount of anthocyanins appears to be specifically in the black Wolfberry containing around 2 g per 100 g.

Studies show that the levels of the bioactive compound and antioxidant activity of both black and red goji berries increased according to the soaking temperature and time.

Infused at 100° water for the same time, the levels of total polysaccharides (150 mg/100 ml), total polyphenols (238 mg/ml), and antioxidant capacity (550 μmol/100 ml) of black goji berry tea were 3.5, 2, and 5 times higher, respectively, in comparison with red goji tea. Therefore, it has higher phytochemicals and antioxidant properties than those of red. That’s why it also is called “The King of Anthocyanin”.

Is There Any Side Effect of Black Goji Berry?

People believe that there are side effects when talking about some benefits of fruit. But for Black and red goji berries, the side effects are only stomach aches or allergic reactions if you eat too much.

As dried fruit, black goji berries contain sugar. Even if the sugar content level is not as high as red goji, anytime when you eat, need to control quantity to make sure your blood sugar is balanced. 

Are goji berries bad for you if you’re allergic to other berries? Actually, you do not worry about it unless you have some clear symptoms like tingling, skin rash, itchiness, or other similar allergies. Remember, consult your doctor in advance before you eat any goji berries.

Generally, black goji berry has been proven to be safe for most people when consumed for up to 3 months.

How to Brew Black Goji Berry Tea?

Dried black goji berries could be used directly, and do not need to be rehydrated prior to use. The berries are also boiled as an herbal tea, that’s the best way to ingest them. Here below is a step-by-step guide on how to make it.

Step 1. Scoop 5~8g black goji berries and put them into the cup.

Step 2. Pure hot water (purified water is preferred) of about 150ml (~ 3oz) with a temperature of 70~80 ℃.

Step 3. Steep for about 3~5 minutes then serve.

Step 4. After drinking, eat black goji berries.

Final Thought

In conclusion, Black Goji Berry stands out as a true powerhouse with its remarkable antioxidant performance, surpassing even the red goji berry. Earning the title “King of Anthocyanin,” this superfood boasts a higher content of beneficial phytochemicals. Remember, when brewing, stick to a 1:20 ~30 water-to-berry ratio, and indulge in the berry after drinking the tea. Embrace the natural goodness of this exceptional treasure and elevate your well-being with its numerous health benefits. Make Black Goji Berry a part of your daily routine and experience the wonders it brings to your health and vitality.