Because current influenza vaccines do not offer complete protection, researchers continue to look for alternatives..

A recent study in mice demonstrated that a goji berry diet provided rodents with additional protection against influenza..

The work, published in the Journal of Nutrition, was carried out by scientists from the USDA HNRCA Department and Tufts University..

To study the effects of goji berries, also known as Tibetan barberries, scientists conducted experiments with old mice (20-22 months old) by introducing 5% goji berries into their diet for 30 days..

During this period, mice were injected with two influenza vaccines and then infected with the virus.. The animals were then tested for certain antibodies in their blood and assessed for the severity of symptoms of the infection, including weight loss..

Researchers observed higher antibody titer in mice fed goji berries. In addition, the infection caused less weight loss in them compared to the group that received the vaccine alone..

Study lead author Dr. Simin Meydani, director of the USDA HNRCA, said of the medicinal potential of the berries: "

Milk solution with goji berries effectively protected old mice from influenza and boosted the immune system of animals. Beyond simple observation, Dr. Meydani and colleagues isolated rodent dendritic cells, immune cells that activate T-lymphocytes to fight infections..

Scientists treated dendritic cells with goji berry extract, leaving them to " They found that the extract "

The scientists noted that they are "

Study co-author Dr Dayong Wu explains: “Goji is rich in polysaccharides as well as vitamins, carotenoids and flavonoids.. Further research is needed to understand exactly which components stimulate dendritic cells.”.

Scientists also say human studies need to be done to prove that berries have a similar effect on us.. Dr. Meydani said: "

The doctor noted that today influenza vaccines are especially recommended for older people, but they only protect the aging body from influenza by 40%, which is much less than the effectiveness rate in young patients..

For this reason, it is very important to explore alternatives, including herbal remedies, that will help increase the effectiveness of vaccination..

medbe. en.