For centuries, Tibetans have believed that eating their special berry would make people happy the entire day. It was largely unknown until researchers at Tufts University developed the ORAC scale measuring the oxygen radical absorption capacity (antioxidant level) of various foods. Blueberries were thought to be the highest at 2,500 on the ORAC scale, but the 'True Tibetan Wonderberry' tipped the scales at 25,000! The flavor is a combination of cranberry and cherry or raspberry and plum and is also a source of protein, rich in amino acids, beta-carotene and vitamins B1, B2, and C.

 

In early summer, this sun-loving shrub is covered with lavender and white star-shaped blossoms. By Autumn, glistening red berries develop. The drought tolerant plant reaches a mature height of 8'-10' and survives temperatures from -15ºF to over 100ºF!

 

Researchers from the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Center on Aging at Tufts University developed this scale for the U.S Department of Agriculture to measure a food’s capability to destroy free radicals. ORAC is an acronym for Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity. Recent scientific studies indicate that damage by oxygen free radicals is responsible for many maladies associated with aging and that consuming fruits and vegetables high in ORAC value can slow the aging process in both body and brain.

 

Several foods have been tested for their ORAC properties and among the highest rated antioxidant foods per 100 grams (about 3 ½ ounces) were: Goji berries (Lycium barbarum 25,300), pomegranates (3,307), blueberries (2,400), kale (1,770), cranberries (1,750), raw spinach (1,260), Brussels sprouts (980) and broccoli flowers (890). Based on recent evidence, researchers are recommending we consume between 5,000-8,000 ORAC units per day in the form of deep-colored fruits and bright green or yellow vegetables to reduce the risk of age-related illnesses. See "Plant Pigments Paint a Rainbow of Antioxidants," Agricultural Research, November 1996, pp. 4-8 or go to this page for more information.