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Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract

Also known as: Goji berry, Wolfberry, Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract, Lycium barbarum

Overview

Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract is a concentrated botanical supplement derived from Lycium barbarum berries, specifically sourced from the Heaven Mountain region. This extract is particularly rich in Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs), which are recognized as the primary bioactive compounds responsible for the health benefits associated with goji berries. With a history of over 2,000 years of traditional use in Chinese medicine, goji berries are valued for their antioxidant, metabolic, and cardiovascular properties. The extract is typically produced through hydro-ethanolic extraction, a method designed to preserve its beneficial polysaccharides and antioxidants. While research on goji berry and its polysaccharides is moderately mature, including an increasing number of randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, specific high-quality systematic reviews on the branded Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract are not yet available. Therefore, the evidence for its effects is largely extrapolated from general studies on Lycium barbarum polysaccharides.

Benefits

Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) content. A meta-analysis of 7 randomized controlled trials demonstrated that daily LBP consumption significantly improved serum triglycerides, fasting blood glucose, and LDL cholesterol levels, while also increasing HDL cholesterol. This suggests strong metabolic regulation potential, particularly for individuals with metabolic syndrome or cardiovascular risk factors. Furthermore, LBPs exhibit potent antioxidant activity, comparable to synthetic antioxidants, by effectively scavenging free radicals and reducing markers of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. Emerging evidence also points to cardiovascular support, likely mediated by its lipid and glucose regulatory effects and antioxidant properties. Secondary benefits, such as potential neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects, have been suggested but require further high-quality trials for confirmation. Improvements in skin carotenoid levels and macular pigment density, potentially benefiting age-related macular degeneration, have also been observed with goji intake, though specific data for the Heaven Mountain extract are not available. The observed benefits typically manifest with consistent daily consumption over several weeks to months.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract lies in its Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs). LBPs exert significant antioxidant effects by directly scavenging free radicals and chelating metal ions, thereby reducing oxidative damage to lipids and proteins within the body. These polysaccharides also play a crucial role in modulating lipid and glucose metabolism, potentially by influencing insulin sensitivity and various lipid transport pathways. Additionally, LBPs can bind to low molecular weight phenolics, which further enhances their overall antioxidant capacity. The hydro-ethanolic extraction method used for Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract is believed to improve the bioavailability and absorption of these active compounds, ensuring that the beneficial components are effectively utilized by the body.

Side effects

Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract, like other goji berry extracts and their active polysaccharides (LBPs), is generally considered safe with a low incidence of adverse effects in clinical trials. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort is occasionally reported, but common side effects occurring in more than 5% of users are not well documented. Rare allergic reactions may occur in individuals sensitive to goji or related plants. A notable safety concern is the potential for interaction with anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin, which has been observed in isolated case reports. However, robust clinical evidence to confirm this interaction is currently lacking. Contraindications include a known allergy to goji or any related plant species. Sufficient safety data for special populations, including pregnant or breastfeeding women and children, are not available, and therefore, use in these groups should be approached with caution and under medical supervision.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose for Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) in studies typically ranges from 1 to 3 grams daily. While Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract is a concentrated form, standardized dosing for this specific product is not yet firmly established. For metabolic benefits, dosages within this range appear optimal. The timing of intake is flexible, but consistent daily consumption is recommended to achieve desired effects. Heaven Mountain Goji Drops, being a hydro-ethanolic tincture, provide a concentrated form, and dosing should be guided by the standardized polysaccharide content if available. Absorption of the extract may be enhanced when taken with food, and no specific cofactors are required for its efficacy. It is important to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract product, and to consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosage advice, especially when addressing specific health conditions.

FAQs

Is Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract safe for daily use?

Yes, within typical supplement doses, Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract is generally considered safe for daily use, with minimal side effects reported in studies on goji berry polysaccharides.

How soon can benefits be expected?

Metabolic and antioxidant benefits from Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract may begin to appear after several weeks of consistent daily use, as observed in clinical studies.

Can it replace medications for hypertension or diabetes?

No, Heaven Mountain Goji Berry Extract should be considered an adjunctive supplement and not a replacement for prescribed medications for conditions like hypertension or diabetes. Clinical management should always remain under physician guidance.

Are there differences between Heaven Mountain extract and other goji products?

Heaven Mountain Goji is noted for its high phytonutrient density due to its specific geographic origin and hydro-ethanolic extraction method. However, direct comparative clinical data between this branded extract and other goji products are currently lacking.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34213407/ – This meta-analysis of 7 randomized controlled trials investigated the effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) on lipid and glucose metabolism. It found significant reductions in triglycerides, fasting blood glucose, and LDL cholesterol, alongside increases in HDL cholesterol. The study highlights the potential of LBPs for metabolic regulation, despite limitations such as a small number of included studies and variable study quality.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8868247/ – This comprehensive review explored the antioxidant properties of goji berry and its active components, particularly Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs). It confirmed the strong antioxidant activity of LBPs, including their ability to scavenge free radicals and chelate metal ions, thereby reducing oxidative stress. The review underscores the role of acidic polysaccharides in these beneficial effects, providing a mechanistic basis for goji's antioxidant properties.
https://www.iherb.com/blog/try-goji-berries-for-flavor-and-nutrition/587 – This source references a small human trial (n=27) which indicated that goji berry intake could increase macular pigment optical density. This suggests potential benefits for eye health, particularly in relation to age-related macular degeneration. However, the study's findings are limited by its small sample size and lack of a control group, and it was not specific to the Heaven Mountain extract.