The physiological and genotoxic effects on model organisms of the water and ethanol extracts of Goji berry (Lycium barbarum L.)

Abstract

Objectives: Herbal treatments in particular have a place which cannot be ignored in current alternative medicine. One of these plants, which has become very well-known recently and which is widely consumed in Turkey is the Goji berry (Lycium barbarum L.). To investigate the effects of Goji berry, on fertility when used by individuals in their 20s and on physical growth when used by those of a younger age. It was also aimed to test the genotoxic effects of the Goji berry on Allium cepa L. meristem stem cells. Materials and Methods: Goji berry water and ethanol extracts were tested on a model organism of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) in respect of fertility and physical growth. Allium cepa L. meristem stem cells exposed to Goji berry extract were examined for genotoxic effects. Results: A significant dose-related reduction was determined in fertility, physical growth and mitotic index in ethanol extract. In the water extract, a reduction in fertility was determined at high doses and an increase with the lowest dose used in the study. No significant effect was found on physical growth of water extract at any dose. Conclusion: The results of this study showed negative effects on cell division, fertility and physical growth of Goji berry, which has been used since ancient times in Chinese medicine and for which several benefits have been claimed in literature. It must be emphasised that dose-related side-effects may develop with the use of plants for medicinal puposes.