Amagase H,
Nance DM.
FreeLife
International, LLC, Phoenix, AZ.
ABSTRACT Background:
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial is
the first study reported from outside China that has examined the
general effects of the orally consumed goji berry, Lycium barbarum,
as a standardized juice (GoChi); FreeLife International LLC,
Phoenix, AZ) to healthy adults for 14 days.
Methods: Based upon the medicinal properties of Lycium barbarum in
traditional Asian medicine, we examined by questionnaire subjective
ratings (0-5) of general feelings of well-being, neurologic/psychologic
traits, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and cardiovascular
complaints as well as any adverse effects. Also, measures of body
weight, body-mass index, blood pressure, pulse rate, and visual
acuity were assessed before and after consuming 120 mL of GoChi/day
or placebo control solution.
Data were statistically analyzed for changes between day 1 and day
15. Results: Significant differen ces between day 1 and day 15 were
found in the GoChi group (N = 16) in increased ratings for energy
level, athletic performance, quality of sleep, ease of awakening,
ability to focus on activities, mental acuity, calmness, and
feelings of health, contentment, and happiness.
GoChi also significantly reduced fatigue and stress, and improved
regularity of gastrointestinal function. In contrast, the placebo
group (N = 18) showed only two significant changes (heartburn and
happiness). No significant changes in musculoskeletal or
cardiovascular complaints were observed in either group. All
parametric data (body weight, etc.) were not significantly different
between groups or between day 1 and day 15 for either group.
Conclusions: These results clearly indicate that daily consumption
of GoChi for 14 days increases subjective feelings of general
well-being, and improves neurologic/psychologic performance and
gastrointestinal functions. The data strongly suggest that further
research is indicated to confirm and extend knowledge of the
potential effects of Lycium barbarum upon human health.