Gou ji berries (Lycium Chinense) also known as wolfberry, look something like a small raisin but with a lovely red color. They are rich in vitamin A and benefit the eyes, liver and kidneys. Gou Ji is also believed to be an excellent antioxidant useful in the reduction of inflammation, support of vision, and immune function moderation.
Gou Ji is rich in macronutrients being 68% carbohydrate, 12% protein, 10% fiber and 10% fat. (Wikipedia), 11 essential and 22 trace dietary minerals, 18 amino acids, 6 essential vitamins, the -5 unsaturated fatty acids, and numerous phenols, and numerous other phytochemicals such as beta-carotene and zeaxanthin. Gou Ji berries are widely used in Asian cooking, appearing in everything from congee to soups, in combination with meats and vegetables in stir fries and other dishes.
Gou Ji is also widely used as an herbal remedy , prized for its neutral energy, and its tonifying effect on blood, kidney yin, liver yin, and lung yin as stated in the Secrets of Longevity Website.
With the onset of winter weather and we offer this recipe for improving immune function and fighting off any incipient colds or flus.
Gou Ji Immune Tea for Winter and reinforcing Liver and Kidney Recipe
- 1 tsp Gou Ji
- ½ tsp Astragalus root
- 6 Long Yan Fruit (dried dragon's eyeballs)
- 5 Red dates
- 7 Chrysanthemum
- ½ tsp Honeysuckle
- 2 cubes Rock sugar
Boil water (1-2 cups) and add to herb mixture.
Allow to steep 5-10 minutes and Drink.
You can re-steep with hot water the herbs and drink the tea repeatedly until the flavor is gone. Once done you can pick out the Gou Ji berries and eat them.