A Randomized, Double‐blind, Placebo‐controlled, Clinical Study of the General Effects of Himalayan Goji® Juice/Lycium barbarum

Abstract

This first randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial has examined the general effects of orally consumed goji berry, Lycium barbarum. The goji or a placebo was provided as a beverage (Himalayan Goji® Juice, HGJ) to healthy adults for 14 days of consuming 120 ml of HGJ/day or placebo. Subjective questionnaire ratings (0–5) was used for general feelings of well‐being, neurological/psychological traits, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal and cardiovascular complaints, and any adverse effects. Questionnaire data were analyzed between day 1 and day 15 with the nonparametric Wilcoxon matched pairs tests. Significant differences (p<0.05) were found in the HGJ group (N = 16) and consisted of increased ratings for energy level, athletic performance, quality of sleep, ease of waking up, ability to focus on activities, mental acuity, calmness, and feelings of health, contentment and happiness. HGJ also significantly reduced feelings of fatigue and stress, and improved gastrointestinal regularity. 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, such as body weight, BMI, blood pressure, etc. were not significantly different. These results clearly indicate that daily consumption of HGJ increases subjective feelings of general well‐being, neurological/psychological traits and gastrointestinal regularity. This study was supported financially by FreeLife International.