The functionality of the Chinese box hawthorn

Chinese box hawthorn, commonly known and consumed in the US as Chinese goji dried goji berries, is a member of the nightshade family. The herb has a 2,000-year history of medicinal use as a Chinese tonic herb and medicinal fruit. Almost every part of this evergreen thorny shrub can be used to benefit the human body. The grass grows about a meter tall, mostly in East Asia around January. The leaves, normally collected in spring, are dried and used as Chinese tea. The roasted seeds can be ground and filtered as a coffee drink.

The fully ripe and dried berries of the Chinese hawthorn fruit can be used to treat a variety of problems such as anemia and dermatitis-related afflictions. The berries have a general cleansing and immunity-building effect on the human body. People commonly consume the dried berries on their own or mix them into a trail mix, salads, or as a topping for other dishes. The root can be harvested at any time and has been used to treat diseases such as pneumonia, pulmonary tuberculosis, as well as asthma and coughs. Rich in vitamin A, C, E, and flavonoids, Chinese boxthorn also offers a small percentage of protein and carbohydrates that defend against various other human diseases.

The herb has been used to treat vision, liver, and urinary and reproductive problems. The herb is also touted as a cancer inhibitor that slows or stops the growth of these unhealthy cells. Generally, herbalists also cook the mint-flavored round leaves in soups or offer them with a mixed vegetable dish to combat congestion and chest ailments. This herb is not difficult to find in the United States. Anyone can incorporate it into a daily diet in moderation, of course. You can find juices or other goji berry-infused drink combinations to supplement your diet in many Asian or health supermarkets.

Other functional uses of the herb include controlling internal bleeding, antibacterial applications, treating hypoglycemia, fertility problems, kidney and liver diseases. The other uses will be the reduction of high blood pressure and a stable tonic for building the immune system. Another benefit is improved vision. So if you are focusing intensely for long periods of time on a computer screen, this herb may be perfect for you. With such a long history of medicinal use and the variety of ways it can benefit the body, Chinese box hawthorn is worth exploring as a preventative health measure.