Goji berries are small fruits that are rich in nutrients and are often used in many salads and oatmeal. These slightly sweet and tart fruits are native to the Tibetan Himalayan region and China.
The benefits of these tiny berries are numerous when you consume them in moderation, but with excess intake, there are also several side effects of goji berries. They may interact with certain drugs or cause an allergic reaction in some individuals (1).
In this article, we have discussed the possible side effects of goji berries. Keep reading to know more!
StyleCraze Trivia Several exaggerated claims have been made about the health benefits of goji berries and the products derived from them. FDA placed two distributors of goji juice on notice in 2006 for their unproven therapeutic benefits.
What Are The Side Effects Of Goji Berries?
1. May Cause Drug Interactions
Shutterstock
Goji berries can interact with certain drugs, including warfarin. In a study, a 71-year-old woman took goji berry juice while she was on warfarin therapy. The woman experienced symptoms of bruising, rectal bleeding, and bleeding from the nose (2). Her symptoms improved once she stopped taking the juice.
Goji berry juice is a popular herbal drink that can increase bleeding. It interacts with and enhances the action of drugs like warfarin, which is an anticoagulanti XChemical substances or medications that help thin the blood and prolong the process of blood clotting. (3).
2. May Lower Blood Sugar Way Too Much
Shutterstock
Goji berries can lower blood sugar levels. They have been identified as possible treatment options to manage diabetes (4). But if you are already on diabetes medication, they may cause your blood sugar levels to decrease way too much.
There is no direct research stating that goji berries can cause hypoglycemiai XA condition in which the blood sugar level (glucose) in the body drops below the standard range. . However, it is better to exercise caution. Please check with your doctor before consuming goji berries if you are undergoing diabetes treatment.
3. May Cause Allergies
Shutterstock
Goji berries can cause anaphylaxis, a condition in which the body becomes hypersensitive (5). The lipid transfer proteins in the berries could be responsible for these reactions.
The symptoms of anaphylaxis include hivesi XRaised itchy rashes on the skin that are caused due to allergic reactions, medications, or stress. , airway obstruction, gastrointestinal issues, and shock (6). Individuals at risk of food allergies must not consume goji berries until they get approval from their doctor.
Related: 14 Best Home Remedies For Skin Allergies | Causes And Symptoms
4. May Cause Hypotension
Shutterstock
Studies show that goji berries can help lower blood pressure levels (7). This may be good news, but it can cause problems if the individual is already on medications for treating high blood pressure.
Goji berries may enhance the action of medications that lower blood pressure. This can lead to hypotension or blood pressure levels plummeting to dangerously low levels.
Though there is no direct research to establish this, there is a possibility. If you are already on medication to treat hypertension, please check with your doctor before you consume goji berries.
Related: 8 Home Remedies To Treat Low Blood Pressure & Prevention Tips
5. May Lead To Diarrhea
Shutterstock
In one case report, an individual who had consumed goji berries (goji berry tea) had experienced non-bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. The berries were found to modulate certain genes in the human body. Another possible reason for these side effects could be contamination (8).
Hence, if you have digestive issues, please check with your doctor before consuming goji berries.
Related: 10 Natural Remedies For Diarrhea + Causes, Symptoms, And Prevention Tips
6. May Cause Miscarriage
Goji berries contain betaine (9). Betaine could also be used to induce menstruation and abortion. The berries also have an estrogen-mimicking effect. Hence, they must not be used by pregnant or lactating women or anyone with diseases sensitive to estrogen (10).
StyleCraze Trivia The FDA found high concentrations of insecticide and fungicide residues in some imported goji berries and their products, leading to their seizure.
Infographic- Ways To Identify Side Effects Of Goji Berries
Goji berries are consumed in different forms and are very beneficial if consumed correctly, but excess intake can cause some serious side effects. It is important to identify these side effects and get treated immediately.
Check out the infographic given below to learn about the side effects of Goji berries.
Goji berries are packed with beneficial compounds. However, if consumed in excess, goji berries can lead to many adverse effects. The side effects of goji berries range from causing diarrhea to possibly lowering blood sugar levels. They may cause lower blood pressure as well. In some cases, goji berries can cause allergic reactions or interfere with the functioning of certain medications, resulting in bleeding. In severe cases, they may result in miscarriage, and therefore pregnant or lactating women should refrain from excessive consumption of these berries. Limiting or avoiding their consumption can prevent these possible unwanted effects.
