Research advances on regulating intestinal flora and their physiological functions by phytochemicals of goji berry
Goji berry contains several nutrients and active ingredients,with certain edible and medicinal value.The past studies have found that goji berry extracts have a variety of biological activities such as immune regulation and antitumor and anticancer activities.Recent research has shown that goji berry and its extracts can also regulate the intestinal flora.This paper reviewed the phytochemicals such as Lycium barbarum polysaccharides,anthocyanins,betaines,phenolic acids,flavonoids,and carotenoids in the fruits of L.barbarum and L.ruthenicum Murray,and outlined the effects of the whole fruit of goji berry and its extracts on the intestinal flora and their physiological functions.This paper provides prospects for future research.