Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) is a leafy vine native to southern China and Southeast Asia, long used in traditional herbal medicine. Often called the “immortality herb,” locals credit it for their longevity—particularly in regions where people commonly live past 100 and drink Jiaogulan tea daily.
But does it live up to the hype? Modern research is beginning to support what ancient traditions have long believed: Jiaogulan may help with stress, metabolism, blood sugar, cholesterol, and more. Here’s what you need to know about this intriguing adaptogenic herb.
What Is Jiaogulan?
Jiaogulan is part of the gourd family and grows as a climbing vine. Its leaves are usually dried and brewed as a tea, though capsules and powders are now widely available. Unlike ginseng (to which it’s often compared), Jiaogulan is caffeine-free and has a slightly bittersweet, earthy taste.
What makes Jiaogulan stand out is its unusually high content of saponins—specifically gypenosides, which are chemically similar to the ginsenosides found in Panax ginseng. Some of these compounds are nearly identical, and Jiaogulan contains more of them than ginseng itself.
Traditional Use: A Tonic for Longevity
In China, Jiaogulan has been used for centuries as a natural tonic to promote energy, reduce fatigue, and support cardiovascular health. The people of Guizhou province, where the herb grows naturally, often refer to it as “miracle grass” or “southern ginseng.”
Though it was officially introduced into Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) more recently, folk remedies have long relied on Jiaogulan for respiratory problems, high cholesterol, stress, and overall wellness.
Health Benefits: What the Science Says
🌿 1. Adaptogen for Stress Relief
Jiaogulan is classified as an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress and rebalance itself. Studies suggest it may help regulate cortisol levels and support mental clarity and mood—without the jittery side effects of caffeine or stimulants.
One clinical study showed that people who took Jiaogulan extract for 8 weeks reported significant reductions in stress and anxiety levels compared to a placebo.ay help regulate cortisol levels and support mental clarity and mood—without the jittery side effects of caffeine or stimulants.
One clinical trial found that Jiaogulan extract significantly reduced anxiety in individuals under chronic stress. Read the study on PubMed
Adaptogens are natural substances that may help the body adapt to stress and promote overall balance. Learn more about adaptogens on Healthline
💪 2. Supports Blood Sugar and Metabolism
Perhaps the strongest evidence for Jiaogulan lies in its role in regulating blood sugar and improving insulin sensitivity.
In several small human trials, Jiaogulan tea or extract significantly lowered fasting glucose levels and improved HbA1c readings in people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers believe this effect is due to activation of AMPK, an enzyme that boosts cellular energy and glucose uptake.
Jiaogulan has also been shown to help with weight loss in overweight individuals. A 2022 study found that participants taking Jiaogulan extract saw more fat loss, particularly around the abdomen, than those taking a placebo.
❤️ 3. Cardiovascular Support
Traditional use of Jiaogulan for heart health is backed by early human and animal studies showing it can help:
- Lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol
- Improve blood circulation
- Protect blood vessels via antioxidant effects
- Potentially lower blood pressure
While more large-scale trials are needed, the results are promising—especially for those with metabolic syndrome.
For a detailed overview of Jiaogulan, including its uses and safety information, visit WebMD’s Jiaogulan page.
🛡 4. Antioxidant and Immune Boosting
Jiaogulan is rich in natural antioxidants, including flavonoids and polysaccharides, which help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from damage.
It’s also shown potential in boosting immune system activity by enhancing the function of white blood cells. Early lab research even hints at anti-cancer and neuroprotective properties, though these findings are still in early stages and not yet proven in humans.
Like other adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, Jiaogulan supports stress relief and overall balance.
You may also enjoy our article on Vitamin D supplements, which pair well with herbs like Jiaogulan for immune support.
Side Effects and Precautions
Jiaogulan is generally well tolerated, with few side effects reported. That said, a few considerations:
- Mild digestive upset (nausea, diarrhea) may occur in some users.
- Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to lack of safety data.
- Use caution if taking blood sugar-lowering medications or blood thinners.
- Avoid before surgery, as it may affect blood clotting.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing conditions or take prescription meds.
Learn more about Jiaogulan’s traditional uses and safety on WebMD.
How to Use Jiaogulan
You can enjoy Jiaogulan in a few easy ways:
- As tea: Steep 1–2 tsp of dried leaves in hot water for 5–10 minutes. Drink daily, hot or cold.
- Capsules: Look for extracts standardized to gypenosides. Typical dose: 450–800 mg/day.
- Powder: Mix into smoothies or juices—earthy, green taste blends well with fruit.
For best results, use daily for at least 4–8 weeks. Jiaogulan works gradually, with subtle improvements in energy, stress levels, and metabolic health over time.
Final Thoughts
Jiaogulan is more than just herbal folklore—it’s a well-studied, honest-to-goodness adaptogen with science to support its use in modern health routines. Whether you’re battling stress, managing blood sugar, or simply looking for a clean, natural boost, Jiaogulan offers real benefits without the buzz or marketing hype.
It’s safe, affordable, and easy to add to your daily wellness plan. Just make sure to buy from reputable sources, and listen to your body as you go.
No magic pills here—just smart, time-tested support for the body and mind.
✅ Coming soon on NoBullHealthFoods.com: Our top Jiaogulan teas and capsules, reviewed and rated. Only what actually works—no fluff, no bull.
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