An Evidence-Based Systematic Review of Goji (Lycium spp.) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration
Ulbricht C, Bryan JK, Costa D, Culwell S, Giese N, Isaac R, Nummy K, Pham T, Rapp C, Rusie E, Weissner W, Windsor RC, Woods J, Zhou S · Journal of Dietary Supplements · 2014 May 7
DOI 10.3109/19390211.2014.904128
Objective
An evidence-based systematic review of goji (Lycium spp.) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration consolidates the safety and efficacy data available in the scientific literature using a validated, reproducible grading rationale.
Conclusions
This article includes written and statistical analysis of clinical trials, plus a compilation of expert opinion, folkloric precedent, history, pharmacology, kinetics/dynamics, interactions, adverse effects, toxicology, and dosing.
Critical Appraisal
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Insights
Goji (Lycium spp.) has a consolidated safety and efficacy profile, based on scientific literature, clinical trials, expert opinions, history, pharmacology, interactions, adverse effects, toxicology, and dosing.
The methodology of this review was systematic, consolidating various data on goji. It firstly analyzed scientific literature and conducted statistical evaluations of clinical trials. Additionally, it compiled not only expert opinions but also took into account folkloric precedent and historical use of goji. It also encompassed a thorough review of pharmacology, how the plant's compounds interact within the body (kinetics/dynamics), and potential interactions with other substances. It evaluated potential adverse effects and toxicology.
The thorough examination across multiple aspects revealed that goji has a broad safety and efficacy profile. Its use, safety, and effectiveness are supported not only by current clinical trials but also by the history of its application and expert opinions. The review of its pharmacology and kinetics/dynamics further supports these findings. The potential interactions, adverse effects, and toxicology of goji were found to support the established safety profile. Notably, the review also focused on its dosing, further validating this conclusion.
