Last verified: today
Goji Berry Extract
Also known as: Lycium barbarum, wolfberry, GBE, goji
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Antioxidant-rich berry extract with early lab evidence for eye and cell protection. Human data is very limited.
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What it does
Goji berry extract comes from the fruit of Lycium barbarum, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. Lab and animal studies suggest its carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin) and compounds like...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose (insufficient research data)
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Found in
What the Science Says
Goji berry extract comes from the fruit of Lycium barbarum, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. Lab and animal studies suggest its carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin) and compounds like taurine and polysaccharides may protect eye cells, reduce inflammation, and offer some antioxidant defense. Most research so far has been done in cell cultures or rats, not in human clinical trials.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to treat cancer in humans — cell-culture results don't translate directly to people. No solid human evidence it cures dry eyes, prevents diabetic retinopathy, or boosts immunity. Don't expect dramatic anti-aging or energy effects based on current data.
Evidence-Based Benefits
May protect retinal cells from inflammation and oxidative stress in lab models of diabetic eye disease.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established human dose
Improved tear production and reduced dry eye symptoms in rats at 250–500 mg/kg doses.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established human dose
Carotenoids in goji berry extract showed protective effects against a fungal toxin in neuroblastoma cell cultures.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established human dose
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no human pharmacokinetic data in the provided studies. Animal and cell studies don't establish how well humans absorb active compounds.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Nearly all evidence comes from cell cultures and animal studies — human clinical trial data is essentially absent in the provided research
- Widely marketed with broad health claims (anti-aging, immune boost, cancer prevention) that are not supported by human clinical evidence
- Dose used in animal studies (250–500 mg/kg body weight) does not translate directly to human supplement doses on product labels
- Over 1,000 registered supplement products exist despite very limited clinical evidence — popularity does not equal proof
Products Containing Goji Berry Extract
See how Goji Berry Extract is used in these analyzed products:
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25