Goji berries, as a traditional Chinese tonic, have a long history and are deeply loved by people. Many people are not very clear about the plant category to which Goji belongs. Let's unveil the mystery of Goji and explore which type of plant it actually belongs to.
Basic information about GojiGoji, scientific name Lycium barbarum L., belongs to the Solanaceae family (Solanaceae) Lycium genus plants. It is native to the northwest region of China and has now become one of the main medicinal plants in China.
Classification of Goji plantsAs a member of the Solanaceae family, Goji is in the same family as tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, and other plants. Solanaceae plants have the following characteristics:
1. The inflorescence is usually cymose or racemose.
2. The flowers are usually bisexual, with 5-6 perianth segments and 5-6 stamens.
3. The fruit is a berry or capsule, with many seeds.
Growing environment of GojiGoji has strong adaptability, drought resistance, cold resistance, and alkali resistance. It is distributed in the northwest, north, and northeast of China. Goji mostly grows in ecological environments such as hillsides, river beaches, and saline-alkali lands.
Medicinal value of GojiGoji is rich in nutrients such as polysaccharides, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. According to the "Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China," Goji has the effects of nourishing the liver and kidneys, benefiting essence and improving eyesight, and nourishing blood and calming the mind. Modern pharmacological research also shows that Goji has anti-fatigue, anti-aging, hypoglycemic, and anti-tumor effects.
Cultivation and processing of GojiThe cultivation of Goji has a long history, mainly using methods such as seeding, cutting, and grafting for propagation. After the Goji fruit matures, it undergoes processes such as drying and drying to become Goji products in the market.
Development of Goji industryIn recent years, with the deepening understanding of the health care functions of Goji, the Goji industry has developed rapidly. According to statistics, the planting area of Goji in China has exceeded one million acres, with an annual output of several hundred thousand tons. The Goji industry has become one of the important economic crops in China.
As a member of the Solanaceae Lycium genus, Goji has rich medicinal value and high economic value. Understanding the plant classification, growing environment, and medicinal value of Goji can help us better recognize and use this traditional tonic. In the future, the Goji industry will continue to play its unique advantages, bringing more health and well-being to people.