These "longevity fruits" can help us fight off free radicals

In the Asian highlands of China, Tibet and Mongolia grows a perennial shrub (Lycium barbarum) resistant to intense cold and prised for its vigorous growth.

The fruits of this plant, which usually blooms in the period from June to September, are deep red and sweet berries, known by the name of goji berries.

Goji berries have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, which has attributed them several virtues.

Also known as "longevity fruits", goji berries are particularly rich in substances useful for our body wellness:

• minerals (potassium, iron, zinc, copper, magnesium etc.);
• B-group vitamins, vitamin A and vitamin C;
• essential fatty acids;
• flavonoids and polyphenols.

Specifically thanks to this "wealth", goji berries can boast beneficial antioxidant properties, also useful for counteracting the harmful effects of free radicals.

The various uses of goji berries

In Asia, goji berries are also used for feed purposes. Indeed, their flavour is sweet and pleasant and quite similar to that of blueberries.

For these reasons, in the East they are also used in the preparation of soups or for seasoning meat.

On the Western market, instead, it is possible to find them easily in herb shops, pharmacies or in some specialised organic groceries, in various forms.

For example, the market offers supplements in tablets, containing a high concentration of dry extract of the berries, very handy for daily intake.

This will make it possible to always have a "mine of antioxidants" at hand, provided by these fruits.