Jiao Gu Lan
Gynostemma pentaphyllum
$24.99
Out of stock
Jiao Gu Lan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum), also known as "Southern Ginseng" or "herb of immortality," is a powerful medicinal herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is renowned for its adaptogenic properties and numerous health benefits. Here are some of the key medicinal benefits of Jiao Gu Lan:
1. Adaptogenic Properties: Jiao Gu Lan helps the body adapt to stress and promotes overall balance and well-being. It enhances physical and mental resilience, improves energy levels, and reduces fatigue.
2. Cardiovascular Health: Jiao Gu Lan supports heart health by improving circulation, reducing blood pressure, and lowering cholesterol levels. It helps prevent atherosclerosis by inhibiting the oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
3. Antioxidant Effects: Rich in antioxidants, Jiao Gu Lan helps protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage. This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and slow the aging process.
4. Immune System Support: Jiao Gu Lan boosts the immune system by enhancing the activity of immune cells, making the body more resistant to infections and diseases. It can help prevent colds and flu and improve overall immune function.
5. Anti-inflammatory: The herb has strong anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. It is beneficial for conditions like arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory skin conditions.
6. Blood Sugar Regulation: Jiao Gu Lan can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
7. Cognitive Enhancement: Jiao Gu Lan is known to improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration. It can help protect the brain from age-related decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
8. Weight Management: The herb can aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism and reducing fat accumulation. It also helps regulate appetite and support healthy digestion.
9. Liver Health: Jiao Gu Lan supports liver function and helps detoxify the body. It can protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, alcohol, and other harmful substances.
10. Respiratory Health: The herb is traditionally used to treat respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It helps clear mucus from the lungs and improves breathing.
11. Energy and Stamina: Jiao Gu Lan enhances physical endurance and stamina, making it popular among athletes and those seeking to improve their physical performance.
12. Anti-cancer Properties: Some studies suggest that Jiao Gu Lan has anti-cancer properties. It can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain types of cancer.
13. Improving Sleep: Jiao Gu Lan can help improve sleep quality by reducing stress and promoting relaxation. It is beneficial for individuals with insomnia or other sleep disorders.
14. Digestive Health: The herb aids digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and improving overall digestive function. It can help alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and constipation.
15. Skin Health: Jiao Gu Lan can be used to promote healthy skin. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help reduce skin inflammation and protect against oxidative damage.
Common Forms of Jiaogulan
Tea (most traditional)
Dried leaves are steeped in hot water, often sipped daily like green tea.
It has a slightly sweet, earthy taste. Widely used in China for longevity and everyday health.
Tincture / Liquid Extract
Made with fresh or dried leaf in alcohol or glycerin.
Convenient for precise dosing and combining with other adaptogens.
Capsules / Tablets
Contain powdered leaf or standardized extracts (usually measured for gypenoside content).
Popular for those who want a consistent daily dose without preparing tea.
Powder
Dried, ground leaves can be added to smoothies, drinks, or encapsulated at home.
Fresh Leaves (where grown)
In parts of Asia, people chew or eat fresh leaves directly or add them to salads and soups.
Summary:
Tea is the most traditional and gentle daily use form.
Tincture is good for stronger medicinal applications.
Capsules/tablets are best for convenience and standardized dosing.
Safety & Precautions
Generally safe, even for long-term use.
It can lower blood pressure and blood sugar—use caution if taking antihypertensives, insulin, or other diabetic medications.
Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding (safety not established).
Rare side effects: mild nausea or increased bowel movements in sensitive people.
As with any herbal remedy, it is important to use Jiao Gu Lan under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications. While Jiao Gu Lan is generally considered safe, it can cause side effects in some individuals, such as digestive upset or allergic reactions.
Growing Jiaogulan in the Pacific Northwest
Hardiness:
o Jiaogulan is native to subtropical China and Southeast Asia.
o It’s hardy to about USDA Zone 7 (some say 6 with mulch), so in much of the PNW it can overwinter outdoors with protection, but in colder inland/mountain areas it may die back or need to be brought inside.
Growth Habit:
o It’s a climbing vine in the cucumber family.
o Likes to sprawl or climb on a trellis, fence, or even as groundcover.
Light Needs:
o Prefers partial shade to dappled light, especially in hotter summers.
o Can tolerate more sun in the PNW since summers are milder compared to southern climates.
Soil:
o Rich, moist, well-draining soil is best.
o Mulch helps keep roots cool and retain moisture.
Watering:
o Likes consistent moisture (not soggy).
o More drought-sensitive than many herbs.
Winter Care:
o In mild coastal PNW (zones 7–8), it can overwinter outdoors with a good mulch layer.
o In colder inland areas (zone 6 or below), treat it like a tender perennial: grow in pots, bring indoors, or overwinter in a greenhouse.
o It may die back to the ground in winter and resprout in spring.
Propagation:
o Grows easily from cuttings or division.
o Also available as nursery starts (sometimes harder to find than seeds).
👉 In short: Yes, it will grow well in the PNW if given partial shade, rich soil, and winter protection. Many growers in Oregon and Washington treat it like a perennial groundcover or container plant they bring in during the coldest months.