It is widely sought after for its well marketed health benefits, especially its anti-aging properties. Although the name 'Wolf berry' may not ring any bells, you probably know the fruit by its commercial name: the Goji Berry.

They are usually found dried, have a slight tangy taste, and belong to the nightshade (Solonaceae) family. They are very fragile and must be harvested by hand.

The many Goji berry benefits to be had begin first with their intricate collection of molecules, including polysaccharides, which are sugar molecules believed to support the body's immune system. Polysaccharides are also known to be a great source of probiotic fibers, which are the fermentable portions of soluble fiber that are processed into SCFAs, or short-chain fatty acids, within the intestines. This then provides beneficial nutrients for the probiotics within the intestinal tract to aid the body with vital functions like digestion and the absorption of nutrients.

Goji is also a good source of essential fatty acids and boasts high levels of polysaccharides that are thought to stimulate the immune system. There are even investigations into its ability to reduce the incidence of cancer. As well as some impressive nutritional qualities, the most commonly reported benefits are increased energy, better sleep, clearer thinking, weight loss, reduced anxiety and enhanced moods to name but a few.

Predominantly grown in the northwestern portions of Tibet and China, which boast some of the purest soil in all of the world, Goji berries come from the Lycium plant, an evergreen bush with vines that may reach as high as 10 to 15 feet.

Vitamin A helps to boost immune function, protect vision, and prevent the risk for heart disease. It has been shown to improve vision by enabling your eyes to better adjust to light changes and keeping your eyes moist. Vitmain A also plays an essential role in the proper muscle growth in children and teens.

In vitro studies have shown that extracts of the goji fruit have been able to destroy cancer cells. Other than the antioxidants found in the goji, another goji berry benefit is its rich source of Germanium, which is known to have anti-cancer properties.

Since the benefits of Goji berry are so plentiful, many regard it to be the healthiest single food you could ever consume, with some even saying the fruit has magical, mystical properties.

And because Goji berries are such small, fragile fruits, they must be slowly and carefully harvested by hand, and what's even more time consuming is that all of the berries must be processed into juice form within the first 24 to 48 hours following harvest in order to retain their many nutrients.