Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Goji berry (Lycium barbarum), also known as wolfberry, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for various eye conditions, including those related to aging and vision loss. In TCM, it is believed to "nourish the liver and benefit the eyes," and has been traditionally prescribed for conditions such as blurred vision, dry eyes, and general eye fatigue. The rationale for its use in supporting glaucoma is primarily rooted in these traditional beliefs, rather than in rigorous scientific validation.

There is some preliminary scientific evidence suggesting that goji berries may have beneficial effects on the eyes due to their high content of antioxidants, especially zeaxanthin, a carotenoid known to accumulate in the retina and protect against oxidative stress. Some animal studies and small clinical trials have shown that goji berry supplementation can increase plasma antioxidant levels and may protect retinal ganglion cells from oxidative damage, which is a factor in glaucoma pathology. However, direct evidence from well-controlled human trials specifically investigating goji berry's impact on glaucoma progression or intraocular pressure is lacking.

In summary, while goji berries are traditionally used to support eye health—and there is some emerging scientific interest in their antioxidant properties—the evidence directly supporting their use for glaucoma is limited. Most current support derives from traditional use and extrapolation from general antioxidant research rather than robust clinical trials focused on glaucoma.

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