Goji Berry

Goji berry has been used for thousands of years as a health promoting elixir in Asia (Himalayas), parts of China, Mongolia and Tibet. It is now becoming much more popular as its antioxidant properties are being recognized.

As well as being grown in China, Goji also grows on extensive vines in the sheltered areas of the Himalayas in Tibet, and it also grows in Mongolia. The round, red Goji berries are extremely tender and must be treated with great care. They have to be shaken from the vine rather than picked in order to avoid damage. The Goji berries are made ready for market by slowly drying them in the shade. The berry has been consumed in the Himalayas and Tibet for hundreds of years. It is a strong part of the culture in these areas. One of its common names is "happy berry" because of how it is said to make its consumers feel.

The Duke of Argyll introduced Goji into the UK in the 18th Century where it is called the Duke of Argyll's Tea Tree. It was and still is used to divide off land in the form of hedges. For this purpose it is often found near the coast. Its red berries support wildlife, especially birds.