Brewing goji berries in water is a traditional health practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), valued for its ability to nourish the liver and kidneys, improve vision, and moisten the lungs. But how many berries should you use per serving? Generally, 10–20 dried goji berries are recommended, though the exact quantity should be adjusted based on individual constitution, health status, and intended purpose.
Below, we break down the recommendations into five key factors:
1. Individual Constitution
Heat-prone individuals : Use fewer berries (around 10) to avoid exacerbating internal heat.
Cold-prone individuals: Increase to 15–20 berries to enhance warming and tonifying effects.
2. Health Conditions
Chronic conditions (e.g., hypertension, diabetes): Limit intake to 10–15 berries to avoid excess sugar intake.
Healthy individuals: Use 15–20 berries for general wellness.
3. Purpose of Consumption
Daily wellness: 15 berries suffice for routine health maintenance.
Targeted symptom relief (e.g., dry eyes): Increase to 20 berries to amplify therapeutic effects.
4. Berry Size
Larger berries: Nutrient-dense, so 15 berries are sufficient.
Smaller berries: Use 20 berries to achieve comparable nutritional benefits.
5. Water Temperature
Hot water (80–100°C/176–212°F): Accelerates nutrient release but may degrade heat-sensitive vitamins (e.g., vitamin C). Use 15 berries.
Warm or room-temperature water (40–60°C/104–140°F): Preserves nutrients but requires 20 berries for full efficacy.
Final Notes
The ideal number of goji berries is not fixed and should be flexibly adjusted based on personal needs. While goji berry tea offers numerous health benefits, moderation is key to avoiding adverse effects like overheating or blood sugar spikes. Always prioritize high-quality, organic goji berries and consult a TCM practitioner for personalized guidance.
By tailoring your goji berry intake to these factors, you can safely enjoy their nourishing properties while aligning with TCM principles of balance and harmony.