Cortex Lycii: Traditional Bark for Liver Protection, Vision Health, and Vital Energy

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Cortex Lycii, also known as Lycium bark or Di Gu Pi in Traditional Medicine, is derived from the root bark of Lycium chinense or Lycium barbarum. While Lycium berries (goji berries) are globally popular for their antioxidant properties, the bark has been traditionally used for its potent cooling, liver-cleansing, and vitality-enhancing effects.

Modern pharmacological studies affirm that Cortex Lycii possesses anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, making it a valuable herb for systemic support and healthy aging.

Phytochemical Composition

Cortex Lycii contains several bioactive constituents:

• Betaine: Supports liver detoxification and lipid metabolism.
• Flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, kaempferol): Offer strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Polysaccharides: Enhance immune function and protect cellular health.
• Sterols and Alkaloids: Contribute to hepatoprotective and metabolic activities.

5 Key Health Benefits of Cortex Lycii

1. Liver Protection and Detoxification

Cortex Lycii has been traditionally used to cool the blood and cleanse the liver. Modern studies show that its compounds protect liver cells from damage caused by toxins, oxidative stress, and metabolic overload, supporting overall hepatic health (Wang et al., 2017).

2. Blood Cooling and Fever Reduction

In TCM, Di Gu Pi is used to reduce internal heat manifesting as fever, night sweats, and irritability. It clears “deficiency heat” associated with yin deficiency conditions, helping restore internal balance.

3. Antioxidant and Anti-aging Effects

Flavonoids and polysaccharides from Cortex Lycii scavenge free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and protect tissues from aging-related degeneration, contributing to longevity and skin health (Zhao et al., 2020).

4. Vision and Eye Health Support

The bioactive compounds found in Cortex Lycii, similar to those in goji berries, protect retinal cells, enhance blood flow to the eyes, and reduce oxidative damage, making it beneficial for preserving vision, particularly against age-related macular degeneration.

5. Anti-inflammatory and Immune Regulation

Cortex Lycii inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulates immune responses, helping manage chronic inflammatory conditions and supporting general immune resilience.

Traditional Medicinal Uses

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Cortex Lycii is used to:

• Clear heat from the blood and yin
• Treat chronic low-grade fever and night sweats
• Support liver and kidney yin
• Alleviate eye disorders related to liver health
• Cool the lungs and relieve chronic cough

Recommended Usage

• Decoction: 6–15 grams of dried bark boiled in water daily.
• Powdered Extract: Available in capsules or granules; follow manufacturer’s dosage.
• Combination Formulas: Often paired with herbs like Rehmannia and Anemarrhena for yin tonification and heat-clearing effects.

Note: Cortex Lycii is often used in formulas addressing yin deficiency with heat signs.

Safety and Side Effects

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Mild Side Effects: Rare; may cause mild digestive upset in sensitive individuals.
• Contraindications: Use cautiously in cases of “cold” conditions or yang deficiency according to TCM principles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Cortex Lycii used for?
Traditionally for liver cleansing, reducing internal heat, nourishing yin, and supporting vision and vitality.

Can it help protect the liver?
Yes, it shows hepatoprotective effects against toxins and metabolic stress.

Is it related to goji berries?
Yes, Cortex Lycii comes from the root bark of the same plants that produce goji berries.

Is it safe for daily use?
Yes, when appropriately prescribed, it is safe for long-term use to support liver, eye, and systemic health.

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