Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) Extract Powder

It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, the same as cucumbers and melons. The plant is characterized by its sprawling vine-like growth and delicate, green, serrated leaves that typically grow in groups of five, giving the plant its species name “pentaphyllum.” The leaves are the primary part of the plant used in traditional medicine and are rich in various bioactive compounds. It produces small, white, unassuming flowers and black, inedible berries.

Historical Information: Historically, Jiaogulan has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It was originally discovered by local inhabitants of Guizhou Province, where the herb was consumed daily as a tea to promote longevity and vitality. Villagers in this region were noted for their exceptional health and longevity, leading to the herb’s reputation as the “Immortality Herb.” Jiaogulan’s popularity soared when research in the 1970s confirmed that it contains saponins similar to those found in ginseng, leading to its nickname “Southern Ginseng.” Despite this, Jiaogulan is botanically different from ginseng but offers many similar health benefits.

Herbal Benefits: Jiaogulan extract powder is celebrated for its powerful adaptogenic properties, meaning it helps the body resist various stressors. Below are some of the top benefits associated with the herb:

1. Antioxidant Power: Rich in antioxidants, Jiaogulan extract helps neutralize harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and promoting overall cellular health.

2. Boosts Energy & Endurance: The herb has been used to enhance physical stamina and mental clarity. Athletes often use it to improve endurance and recovery.

3. Supports Cardiovascular Health: Jiaogulan is noted for its ability to improve blood circulation and maintain healthy blood pressure levels. It helps regulate cholesterol by reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) and increasing HDL (good cholesterol).

4. Immune System Support: The herb is believed to enhance immune function, helping the body fend off infections and diseases more efficiently.

5. Regulates Blood Sugar: Jiaogulan has been studied for its role in balancing blood sugar levels, making it a helpful supplement for those managing diabetes or insulin resistance.

6. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: It has anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing inflammation in various parts of the body, potentially alleviating conditions like arthritis.

7. Promotes Longevity: Due to its wide-ranging benefits on stress, energy, immunity, and cardiovascular health, Jiaogulan has earned its reputation as a life-enhancing herb.

Medicinal Uses:

• Stress & Anxiety Relief: Jiaogulan is widely used for its calming effects, helping to reduce anxiety and stress levels. Its adaptogenic nature helps the body balance and adapt to both physical and emotional stressors.

• Cardiovascular Conditions: Due to its ability to enhance blood circulation and lower cholesterol, it has been traditionally used to treat conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and hyperlipidemia.

• Metabolism & Weight Management: The herb has been linked to metabolism regulation and fat oxidation, making it a useful addition to a weight management regimen.

• Liver Detoxification: In TCM, Jiaogulan is believed to support liver health and detoxification, aiding in the body’s natural process of eliminating toxins.

Nutritional Information: While Jiaogulan extract powder itself is not commonly recognized for its macronutrient profile, it is rich in bioactive compounds, particularly saponins (gypenosides), flavonoids, polysaccharides, and amino acids. The gypenosides, which are similar to ginsenosides found in ginseng, are responsible for many of the herb’s health benefits. These compounds play a role in antioxidant activity, immune modulation, and cardiovascular support.

Interesting Facts:

• Longevity: Jiaogulan gained the name “Immortality Herb” after villagers who regularly consumed it as a tea were found to have exceptional lifespans and vitality.
• Adaptogenic Herb: It is one of the few herbs classified as an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body maintain balance in response to physical, emotional, or environmental stress.
• “Southern Ginseng”: Despite being botanically unrelated to Panax ginseng, Jiaogulan offers similar benefits, making it a more affordable alternative in some parts of the world.

Recipes Using Jiaogulan Extract Powder:

1. Jiaogulan Immune-Boosting Tea:

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 tsp Jiaogulan extract powder
     • 1 cup hot water
     • Honey or lemon (optional)
   • Instructions:
     • Mix the Jiaogulan extract powder into hot water.
     • Let it steep for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
     • Add honey or lemon for added flavor and enjoy. This tea is known to boost immunity and energy levels.

2. Jiaogulan Green Smoothie:

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 tsp Jiaogulan extract powder
     • 1 cup spinach or kale
     • 1 banana
     • ½ cup almond milk or coconut water
     • 1 tbsp chia seeds
     • Ice cubes
   • Instructions:
     • Blend all ingredients together until smooth.
     • Add more almond milk if needed for consistency.
     • This smoothie provides a refreshing, energy-boosting start to the day.

3. Jiaogulan Energy Balls:

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 tsp Jiaogulan extract powder
     • 1 cup rolled oats
     • ¼ cup almond or peanut butter
     • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
     • ¼ cup chopped nuts or seeds
     • 1 tsp vanilla extract
   • Instructions:
     • Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl until well combined.
     • Roll into small balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
     • These make for a quick, energy-boosting snack during the day.

4. Jiaogulan Detox Soup:

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 tsp Jiaogulan extract powder
     • 1 cup vegetable broth
     • 1 garlic clove, minced
     • 1 tsp grated ginger
     • 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, celery, spinach)
     • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Instructions:
     • In a pot, sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
     • Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
     • Add chopped vegetables and cook until tender.
     • Stir in Jiaogulan extract powder and simmer for a few more minutes.
     • Season with salt and pepper before serving. This soup aids digestion and detoxification.

***This information is not intended to be used as a diagnosis.  Caution should be exercised when considering any medicinal use, and it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.