Immune modulation by a standardized Lycium barbarum fruit (Goji) juice in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies

Two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human clinical studies conducted in USA and China have examined the immunomodulatory effects of orally consumed Lycium barbarum (Solanaceae) fruit in a form of standardized juice (GoChi^TM) provided to 99 healthy adults (19–72 years age) in total for 30 days of consuming 120ml/day. The GoChi group (N=total 50) significantly increased the number of lymphocytes by 27%, IL-2 by 58%, and IgG levels by 19% compared to starting point, whereas the number of CD4, CD8, or NK cells, or IL-4, and IgA levels were not significantly changed. No adverse reactions, abnormal symptoms, changes in body weight, blood pressure, pulse rate, visual acuity, urine, stool, or blood biochemistry were seen during the trial. No significant improvements were found in any of the indications in the placebo group (N=total 49). Thus, daily consumption of GoChi for 30 days significantly increased subjective feelings of general well-being and significantly increased several measures of immunological function without any adverse reactions.