They are known as the “gold of America” for their pleasant taste and great antioxidant power. A superfood that fights inflammatory and degenerative processes.
Very similar to Goji berries, the withanolides are Inca berries or golden berries are native to the Amazon region and belong to the Solanaceae family. They are slightly larger in size than raisins; they are yellow in colour and have a sweet and sour citrus flavour.
The seeds have been used for centuries to regulate intestinal transit and prevent the accumulation of toxins in the digestive tract.
And in the traditional Inca medicine the berries were used for their healing properties in cases of cancer, leukemia, malaria, asthma, diabetes, dermatitis and rheumatism.
Inca berries, also known as physalis (Physalis peruviana), are rarely found fresh, as they are very perishable fruits. They can be found in specialized markets or as cake decorations. Their most common form is dehydrated as raisins. It is often consumed in granolas, as snacks, smoothies and desserts.
Properties of Goji berries
Goji berries, which today are cultivated in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, as well as South America, are a source of energy and low in calories: according to the US Department of Agriculture, 100 g of these berries have only 53 kcal.
They contain amino acids (16% of its composition is protein), phosphorus, provitamin A, good for eyesight; vitamin C, to strengthen the immune system; and B vitamins such as B1, B2, B6, which help us to regulate the carbohydrate cycle and the metabolism of other nutrients, and contribute to the health of the skin, mucous membranes and hair.
Healthy benefits of its antioxidants
They are rich in antioxidants (especially bioflavonoids, known for their anti-inflammatory, antihistamine and anticarcinogenic properties) and pectins a type of fiber that helps us to regulate blood cholesterol levels.
Prevents numerous chronic and degenerative diseases such as cancer. Antioxidants – such as the carotenoids and polyphenols it contains – can neutralize the effects of free radicals, which are responsible for cell mutation and degeneration.
Its antioxidants also help to reduce inflammation. If you suffer from arthritis, gout, or any type of muscle pain, they can soothe this condition and improve your overall health, including cardiovascular health, by reducing inflammation in the arteries and veins, lowering blood pressure, and preventing the development of arteriosclerosis.
Stabilize cholesterol and glucose levels.
The oleic and linoleic fatty acids of these berries contribute to the reduction of triglycerides and “bad” cholesterol. (LDL), restore total cholesterol levels and protect cardiovascular health.
The extract of the leaves has been shown to have positive properties for the Regulation of blood glucose levels.
A study by the National University of Rwanda and the Official University of Bukavu (Republic of Congo) showed that ingesting 100 mg of this extract per kilogram of body weight significantly reduced glucose levels within 30 minutes of ingestion.
The positive effects of withanolides
The golden berries may prevent cancer. They contain withanolides, a type of steroid very similar to the ginsenosides in ginseng. They possess a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity with the ability to induce the death of diseased cells.
Although more scientific evidence is still lacking, one of the withanolides in the golden berries has been found to be associated with the prevention of liver scarring and the reversal of hepatic degradation. In addition, at the renal level it also helps to eliminate toxins by stimulating urination, and expulsion of fats, salts and toxins from the lymphatic system.