Black wolfberry tea, also known as black goji berry tea, has gained popularity recently due to its potential health benefits. This tea is made from the dried fruit of the black goji berry plant and contains various beneficial compounds, including antioxidants, polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals.
In this article, I’ll explore some potential benefits of drinking black wolfberry tea, including its ability to boost the immune system, promote healthy skin, support eye health, and more.
Black wolfberry tea benefits
Antioxidant properties
Antioxidants are compounds that help to protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Black wolfberry tea is a rich source of antioxidants, including polyphenols, carotenoids, and flavonoids. These antioxidants have been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body, improve immune function, and protect against cellular damage caused by environmental toxins and stressors.
Boosts immune system
Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates that play an important role in the immune system. When ingested, polysaccharides can stimulate the production of white blood cells, which fight infections and diseases.
Black wolfberry tea is a rich source of polysaccharides, including Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs), which have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects. LBPs can help enhance immune cells’ activity, such as T cells and natural killer cells, which are important for fighting off infections and diseases.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of many diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Some studies have suggested that black wolfberry tea may have anti-inflammatory properties due in part to its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants can help reduce oxidative stress in the body, contributing to inflammation.
In addition, black wolfberry tea contains betaine, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Betaine can help to reduce the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are proteins that contribute to inflammation in the body.
Promotes healthy skin
Vitamins A and C are essential nutrients that play important roles in skin health. Here’s how they contribute to promoting healthy skin:
- Collagen production:
- Collagen is a protein essential for skin health, as it helps maintain the skin’s elasticity and firmness.
- Vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen, and vitamin A helps to support the health of the cells that produce collagen.
- Protection against sun damage:
- Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin and contribute to the development of skin cancer.
- Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from UV damage.
- In contrast, vitamin A can help to support the skin’s natural defenses against the harmful effects of the sun.
- Overall appearance:
- Both vitamin A and vitamin C can help improve the skin’s overall appearance.
- Vitamin A can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while vitamin C can help to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Black wolfberry tea is a rich source of both vitamins A and C, making it a potentially beneficial addition to a healthy skincare routine. However, it’s important to note that while these vitamins can help to support skin health, they are not a substitute for other key skin care practices, such as wearing sunscreen and practicing good hygiene.
Supports eye health
Zeaxanthin is a type of carotenoid that is found in high concentrations in the macula of the eye. The macula is part of the eye responsible for central vision, and zeaxanthin plays an important role in protecting the eye from damage caused by blue light and oxidative stress.
Some studies have suggested that consuming foods and beverages rich in zeaxanthin, such as black wolfberry tea, may help protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other eye diseases.
AMD is a common eye disease affecting millions of people worldwide, particularly those over 50. It is characterized by damage to the macula, which can lead to blurry or distorted vision and, in severe cases, blindness.
May help to lower blood sugar
High blood sugar levels can be a major risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes and other health conditions. Some studies have suggested that black wolfberry tea may be beneficial for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition due in part to its potential to help lower blood sugar levels.
Animal studies have shown that black wolfberry tea may be effective at reducing blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and improving glucose uptake in the cells. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of black wolfberry tea on blood sugar levels in humans.
It’s important to note that while black wolfberry tea may have the potential as a natural remedy for managing blood sugar levels, it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or dietary changes recommended by a healthcare provider.
May improve brain function
Flavonoids are a group of plant compounds that are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have suggested that consuming foods and beverages rich in flavonoids, such as black wolfberry tea, may help improve cognitive function and protect against age-related cognitive decline.
Research has shown that flavonoids can help to improve blood flow to the brain, reduce inflammation, and promote the growth of new brain cells. These effects may help to enhance memory, learning, and other cognitive functions.
In addition to its flavonoid content, black wolfberry tea also contains other compounds that may be beneficial for brain health, such as betaine and polysaccharides, which have been shown to have neuroprotective effects.
May help to reduce stress and anxiety
Theanine is an amino acid that is found in tea leaves, including black wolfberry tea. It has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety levels.
Research has suggested that theanine works by increasing the production of alpha waves in the brain, which is associated with a state of calm and relaxation. In addition, theanine can help to reduce the production of cortisol, a hormone that is released in response to stress and can contribute to the development of stress-related health problems.
Some studies have also suggested that theanine may be beneficial for improving sleep quality and reducing symptoms of depression.
These early studies suggest that consuming a diet rich in theanine and other stress-reducing compounds may be one way to help support mental and emotional well-being.
May have anti-cancer properties
Antioxidants are compounds that can help protect the body against damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can contribute to developing chronic diseases, including cancer. Black wolfberry tea is a rich source of antioxidants, including vitamins C, E and flavonoids, which may help protect against cancer.
In addition, black wolfberry tea contains polysaccharides, betaine, and other compounds that have been shown to stimulate the immune system. A healthy immune system is essential for fighting off cancer and other diseases.
Some studies have suggested that black wolfberry tea may effectively inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including liver and breast cancer.
It’s important to note that while black wolfberry tea may have the potential as a natural remedy for reducing the risk of cancer, it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or dietary changes recommended by a healthcare provider.
May support cardiovascular health
Homocysteine is an amino acid that is produced by the body during the metabolism of methionine, another amino acid. High levels of homocysteine in the blood have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease and other health problems, such as stroke and dementia.
Betaine and aldehyde are compounds found in high concentrations in black wolfberry tea. These compounds have been shown to help reduce levels of homocysteine in the blood, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease and other health problems associated with high homocysteine levels.
In addition to its betaine content, black wolfberry tea also contains other compounds that may be beneficial for cardiovascular health, such as flavonoids and antioxidants, which have been shown to help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and protect against the development of atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries and can lead to heart disease.
How do you drink black wolfberry?
Here are some common ways to drink black wolfberry:
Wolfberry tea
This is a popular way to consume black wolfberries. To make wolfberry tea:
- Rinse 1 ounce of dried wolfberries.
- Add the wolfberries to 4-6 cups of boiling water.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain and serve.
You can add a little honey for sweetness if desired.
Wolfberry wine or liquor
Wolfberries can be used to make wine or liquor. The berries are soaked in alcohol like wine or vodka for several months to infuse the flavor. Then strained and bottled. Wolfberry wine and liquor are famous in China and are said to provide health benefits.
Wolfberry juice
Dried or fresh wolfberries can be blended into juice. Blend 1 cup of wolfberries with 2-3 cups of water or fruit juice like apple juice. Strain if using dried berries. Sweeten with honey to taste. For a refreshing drink, wolfberry juice can be diluted with more water or juice.
Add to soups or porridge
Cooked black wolfberries can be added to soups like chicken soup or pork rib soup. They can also be added to porridges like oatmeal, congee, or millet porridge. The wolfberries will soften in the hot liquid but still remain intact. They add nutrition, texture, and flavor to the dish.
Cold-infused wolfberries
Place 3 ounces of dried wolfberries in a jar and cover with 4 cups of water. Refrigerate for 2-3 days. Strain and drink. The cold-infusion releases some of the nutrients from the wolfberries into the water, which takes on a pinkish hue. Sweeten with a bit of honey if desired. Enjoy chilled or over ice.
Add to yogurt or oats
Soaked or cooked dried wolfberries can be added to yogurt, granola, oatmeal, or muesli for extra nutrition and natural sweetness. Their chewy texture pairs well with creamy yogurt and oats.
FAQ
How much wolfberry should I take daily?
New York University’s Langone Medical Center recommends including 3 to 4 tablespoons of wolfberry in your diet for general health and wellness.
Does wolfberry tea have caffeine?
Wolfberry tea is naturally caffeine-free. It contains fructose, which is good sugar and helps the immune system function, reduces the risk of heart disease, increases testosterone, and improves vision.
Does wolfberry help you lose weight?
Wolfberry, also known as goji berry, is commonly used in weight loss pills and diet foods, and science confirms its slimming properties. A 2017 research article published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity indicates that Lycium berries, which include wolfberry, improve blood lipids and reduce stomach fat in people with metabolic syndrome.
Which berry is the best anti-inflammatory?
Berries, especially blueberries, are full of vitamins and antioxidants called flavonoids that can help fight inflammation and regulate the immune system, reducing chronic inflammation.
Which is better black or red goji berry?
According to comparative studies, black goji berry has higher phenolic content, condensed tannin content, monomeric anthocyanin content, and higher antioxidant capacities than red goji berry.
