Can I drink goji berry at night for better sleep?

January 2, 2026 •

4 min read

According to a 2008 clinical study, over 80% of participants who consumed goji berry juice reported improved sleep quality. This makes goji berries a popular topic for those wondering, "Can I drink goji berry at night?" The answer is yes, and they are frequently consumed in the evening to aid relaxation and promote a more restful night.

Quick Summary

Goji berries can be safely consumed at night, often in tea or as a snack. Their natural melatonin and antioxidant content may promote relaxation and improve sleep quality for many people. Potential interactions with certain medications and possible mild digestive upset warrant caution and consultation with a doctor.

Key Points

Melatonin Source: Goji berries contain natural melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, making them an effective sleep aid.
Antioxidant Benefits: High levels of antioxidants in goji berries help reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to better sleep quality.
Natural and Caffeine-Free: Unlike many teas, goji berry tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it ideal for consumption before bed without disrupting sleep.
Potential Drug Interactions: Individuals on blood thinners, diabetes, or blood pressure medication should consult a doctor due to possible interactions.
Risk for Pregnant Women: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid goji berries, as the betaine content can induce uterine contractions.
Versatile Consumption: Goji berries can be consumed in various forms at night, including tea, in smoothies, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Traditional Use: Their use for improving sleep and calming the mind is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine.

Why Goji Berries Are a Good Nighttime Choice

Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, have a long history in traditional Chinese medicine for their health-supporting properties, including aiding sleep. For most healthy adults, drinking or eating goji berries at night is not only safe but can be beneficial. They are naturally caffeine-free and contain several compounds that support a healthy sleep cycle.

Melatonin and Antioxidant Content

One of the primary reasons goji berries are linked to improved sleep is their natural melatonin content. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the body's sleep-wake cycle, and a natural boost can help signal to your body that it's time to rest. In addition to melatonin, goji berries are loaded with powerful antioxidants that combat oxidative stress. This reduction in stress can help calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep.

Relaxing the Nervous System

Traditional Chinese medicine links goji berries to calming the mind and nourishing the liver and kidneys, which supports overall vitality, including sleep. Research also indicates that consuming goji berries can help reduce feelings of anxiety and improve mood, which are often significant factors in disrupted sleep patterns. The presence of magnesium and thiamine (vitamin B1) also aids in relaxation by calming the nervous system.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While generally safe, there are some precautions to consider, especially when consuming goji berries at night. It is always wise to start with a small serving to see how your body reacts. Some individuals have reported mild digestive issues like stomach cramps or gas, likely due to the high fiber content.

Potential Drug Interactions

For those on certain medications, caution is advised. Goji berries can potentially interact with:

Blood thinners: Such as warfarin, which could increase the risk of bleeding.
Diabetes medication: Goji berries may lower blood sugar, so diabetics should monitor their levels closely.
High blood pressure medication: The berries could cause blood pressure to drop too much.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid consuming goji berries. The berries contain betaine, a chemical that can cause uterine contractions and potentially lead to miscarriage. Always consult a doctor if pregnant before incorporating new herbal remedies into your diet.

Goji Berry Preparation and Consumption Methods

Dried goji berries are a versatile ingredient that can be easily incorporated into your evening routine. Here are some popular ways to prepare them:

Goji Berry Tea: This is one of the simplest and most traditional methods. Steep a handful of dried goji berries in hot water. You can add other calming ingredients like jujube dates, rose, or a slice of ginger for extra flavor and benefit.
Add to Yogurt: Sprinkle dried or soaked goji berries into a bowl of plain Greek yogurt. This combines the sleep-promoting properties of goji berries with the protein in yogurt, which helps satiate you without being too heavy before bed.
Blend into a Smoothie: For a creamy treat, blend soaked goji berries with almond milk and a banana. Bananas are also rich in sleep-supporting nutrients like magnesium and potassium.
Oatmeal Topping: If you enjoy a warm snack, add them to a small bowl of oatmeal. This provides healthy fiber and a soothing, warm meal that is perfect before sleep.

Comparison: Nighttime Snacks for Sleep


Feature	Goji Berries	Almonds	Tart Cherries	Kiwis
Melatonin Content	Present	Present	High	Present
Primary Sleep Mechanism	Melatonin, antioxidants, calming effects	Magnesium, melatonin	High melatonin, anti-inflammatory	Serotonin, Vitamin C, antioxidants
Best Form at Night	Tea, soaked, in yogurt	Handful of nuts or butter	Juice or fresh	Fresh
Potential Interactions	Blood thinners, diabetes meds	N/A	N/A	N/A
Calorie Count (per serving)	Moderate	Higher	Lower (juice)	Moderate

Conclusion: Goji Berries Are a Viable Nighttime Drink or Snack

For most people, drinking or consuming goji berries at night is a safe and effective way to promote better sleep. Their natural content of melatonin and antioxidants, combined with their calming properties, makes them a valuable addition to a pre-bedtime routine. However, individuals on specific medications or who are pregnant should exercise caution and consult their doctor before adding them to their diet. Preparing a soothing goji berry tea or adding them to a small, healthy snack can help you relax and drift off to a more restful sleep.

Final Recommendations

To make the most of your goji berries, consider these steps:

Moderation is key: Start with a small portion (e.g., a handful of dried berries or one cup of tea).
Timing: Consume your goji berry drink or snack about 1-2 hours before bed.
Preparation: Opt for tea, soaking them in water, or mixing them with yogurt to make them easily digestible.
Consult a Professional: If you have existing medical conditions or are taking medication, talk to a doctor first.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds to the berries and adjust your intake accordingly.

By following these guidelines, you can safely explore if goji berries are the right fit for your nightly wellness ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

The simplest and most effective method is to make a tea by steeping a handful of dried goji berries in hot water. This creates a warm, soothing beverage that aids relaxation.

Goji berries do contain melatonin, but they are not a sedative. They promote relaxation over time and help regulate your natural sleep cycle, but the effect is generally not immediate like a sleep medication.

Excessive consumption can lead to mild side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach aches due to the high fiber content. Moderation is key.

For children, it's best to consult a pediatrician before introducing goji berries. While generally considered safe for most healthy adults, their use and dosage for children are not well-established.

Dried goji berries retain most of their nutritional benefits, including melatonin and antioxidants. Soaking them in hot water for tea can help release these compounds effectively.

To enhance relaxation, you can combine goji berries with other soothing ingredients like jujube dates, ginger, or rose in a tea.

It is best to consume goji berries or goji berry tea 1-2 hours before going to bed. This allows your body enough time to digest them and begin to feel the calming effects.