Organic Jiaogulan tea of the highest grade (no stems). Made from the dried leaves of the plant scientifically known as Gynostemma Pentaphyllum, a remarkable herb native to South China and some other Asian countries. Due to its beneficial properties, this plant has a long history of usage. People believed it helps them live longer, healthier lives. It's been traditionally used as a natural remedy for everything from stress to high cholesterol.

Jiaogulan as a Green Tea Substitute

Unlike our sweetly beloved Camellia Sinensis-based teas, Jiaogulan comes from the cucumber (Cucurbitaceae) family which proves it to be a caffeine-free beverage. This family predominantly contains a different set of phytochemicals, including cucurbitacins and carotenoids, which have their own set of biological functions but do not include the stimulant properties of caffeine. If you're looking to cut down on caffeine but still crave a flavorful experience, this herbal tea is an excellent alternative.

Jiaogulan tea has a vegetal-grassy, “greenish” taste with quite a rich flavor palette. In the foreground you can notice a minty chill with a slightly noticeable sparkling bitterness, against the backdrop of natural sweetness. It is somewhat reminiscent of the taste of stevia or licorice, but more interesting, multifaceted and deep. There are also some salty notes, which indicates a high degree of minerality. Overall, it's a balanced flavor that leaves a pleasant, sweet note on your tongue after each sip.

But it is mainly thanks to its health benefits, that Jiaogulan tea has become a respected drink even among true tea lovers.

The main bioactive components are flavonoids and saponins. For example, Jiaogulan contains gypenosides (type of saponins), which are structurally similar to the catechins found in green tea and to the ginsenosides found in real Ginseng. These compounds contribute to its adaptogenic and antioxidant properties.

The list of Gynostemma’s beneficial properties is even longer and includes hypolipidemic, anti-cancer, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Let’s dive a little deeper into the benefits we can get from this “miracle grass”.

Health Benefits of Jiaogulan

Adaptogenic property

Gynostemma’s components enhance blood circulation during physical activity, potentially increasing one's ability to exercise longer [1].

Gynostemma Pentaphyllum (GP) extract boosts energy levels in cells and could assist in post-exercise recovery [2].

These properties could help sportsmen, people who are forced to undergo intense physical activity as well as those aiming to lose weight.

Weight-Loss and Anti-Obesity Effects

In a study with 80 overweight people, taking GP extract for 12 weeks led to weight loss and a decrease in body fat. [3].

Gynostemma extract also has been shown to reduce weight in obese mice [4, 5, 6].

Additionally, compounds found in Gynostemma reduce the activity of PTP1B, a protein that contributes to obesity and poor insulin sensitivity. [7, 7].

Fights Diabetes

Research shows that gynostemma’s components can provide antidiabetic effect by balancing blood sugar levels and increasing insulin sensitivity.

After 12 weeks of drinking Jiaogulan tea, type 2 diabetic patients had showed a prompt improvement of glycemia and insulin sensitivity [8].

GP extract can enhance fat burning and improve muscle cell sensitivity to insulin by activating AMPK, a molecule that senses energy levels in cells. [2].

Liver Health

Gynostemma extract supports healthy liver function in a variety of diseases, like diabetes mellitus and NAFLD.

In a controlled clinical trial on 56 people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the group treated with GP extract in addition to diet showed significant improvements in body mass index (BMI), liver enzyme levels, insulin levels, and insulin resistance index after 6 months. [9].

A cell study showed that GP extract is able to protect hepatocytes from cell death, lipid accumulation, and oxidative stress caused by diabetic-like metabolism and lipotoxicity [10].

Gypenosides extracted from Gynostemma Pentaphyllum have been shown to protect the liver and reduce fibrosis in rats with chronic liver injury induced by CCl4 [11].

Cardiovascular Health

Various studies suggest that Gynostemma Pentaphyllum could be useful in treating cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and high blood pressure.

The plant's active components, mainly flavonoids and saponins, can help lower lipid levels (like cholesterol and triglycerides) in the body. [12].

Gynosaponin TR1 isolated from Gynostemma Pentaphyllum activates LXR-alpha protein which helps regulate cholesterol level in blood and may prevent the buildup of plaque in arteries [13].

Gypenoside XLIX found in Gynostemma helps reduce inflammation and cell sticking in blood vessels [14].

Animal studies indicate that GP extract
- helps prevent heart problems, including arterial spasms, irregular heartbeats, and high blood pressure [15];
- helps prevent electrolyte imbalances, which can strain the cardiovascular system [16];
- protects the heart from damage during a heart attack [17, 18].

Anti-Cancer Activity

Studies show Gynostemma’s gypenosides help trigger the self-destruction of human colon cancer cells [19] and a specific type of lung cancer cells (A549) [20].

Additionally, Gynostemma may reduce this risk of developing breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and pancreatic cancer by reducing the excess Th2 inflammation [21, 22].Animal studies showed that Gynostemma Pentaphyllum saponins (GPS) have anti-cancer activity in ApcMin/+ mice [23];

Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi) polysaccharides and Jiaogulan saponins exert cancer preventive effects by shaping the gut microbiota and microenvironment in ApcMin/+ mice [24, 23, 25].

Warning: do not try to substitute standard cancer treatments with gynostemma or its elements, or any other dietary measures. If you're considering using them as supplementary aids, consult your physician to prevent unforeseen complications.

Anxiety and stress-recovery

Gynostemma compounds help balance brain activity and reduce stress and anxiety by affecting dopamine, serotonin, and other key elements in the nervous system.

In a clinical trial on 72 healthy people, supplementation with gynostemma leaf extract reduced anxiety from chronic psychological stress [26].

Gynostemma leaf extract also reduced anxiety from chronic stress and Parkinson’s disease in mice [27, 28, 29].

Brain Protection

Gynostemma Pentaphyllum protects brain cells from damage and help to maintain overall brain health. Studies shown that active compounds of GP balance immune responses in the brain, reduce oxidative stress and brain inflammation. It may have therapeutic potential for treating dementia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases. [30, 31, 32, 33, 34].

Also, Gynostemma may help prevent and treat brain damage from conditions like stroke by protecting brain tissue against oxygen and blood sugar deficiencies [35, 30].

Increased doses of the GP extract provided greater effect, indicating a correlation between supplementation and protection. [32].

Allergies

Research indicates that an imbalance in the immune system, specifically when Th2 dominates over Th1, is linked to conditions such as seasonal allergies and asthma [36, 37].

Crude polysaccharides extracted from Gynostemma P. (GPMPP) help to increase immune cell activity, improved the Th1/Th2 balance, and enhance the body's antioxidant levels in rats [22, 38].

GP was found to reduce symptoms of asthma caused by Th2 cytokines in a mice study [39]A long-term oral intake of GP extract, in both high and low doses, helped reduce allergic reactions and lung inflammation in mice sensitized to an allergen [40].

Anti-gastric ulcer effect

The butanol fraction of GP, has been shown to protect against stomach ulcers in rats by preserving the mucus in the stomach lining.[41].

You can brew Jiaogulan tea gong fu style, which means multiple fast stepings.

Use 2 heaped teaspoons per 200ml of water and do multiple fast steepings, starting from 20-30 seconds and gradually increasing this time after each few brews.

When pouring Jiaogulan tea from the pot, you’ll get a foam on the surface of your infusion. Don’t try to get rid of it. It’s those beneficial saponins you’ve extracted from the leaves that form these soapy bubbles. The more bubbles in the tea, the stronger the beneficial effect for your health.

Recommended Daily Intake

It is important to note that Jiaogulan is not recommended for certain individuals. Please make sure to carefully read about the herb's side effects, precautions, contraindications, and drug interactions first.

If you've never tried Jiaogulan tea before, start by drinking 2-4 cups per day. If you don't notice any discomfort during the first week, you can slowly increase your daily intake.

Like many other herbs, it is best to take Gynostemma on an empty stomach, either half an hour before or a couple of hours after a meal.

It is best to spread your Jiaogulan intake throughout the day instead of taking it all at once.

Risks and Side Effects

Most studies suggest that Jiaogulan is safe when consumed in recommended amounts for up to four months.

In rats, GP extract showed no mortality or toxic symptoms even after prolonged use (90 days). Though some hematological and blood biochemistry values were altered, they still remain within normal limits. [42].

However, keep in mind that detailed human studies focusing on GP side effects are limited.

While Gynostemma pentaphyllum is a herb renowned for its potential health benefits, it's important to be aware of its possible risks and side effects.

1. Blood Thinning Effects

Gynostemma pentaphyllum may have blood-thinning properties, which can increase the risk of bleeding. This can be a concern for individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, such as warfarin or aspirin. Caution is advised for those with bleeding disorders or those undergoing surgery, as it may interfere with blood clotting.

2. Immune Stimulating Side Effects

Due to its immune-boosting effects, Gynostemma should not be taken with immune-suppressing drugs as it can make them less effective. At the same time, overstimulating the immune system can potentially exacerbate autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or multiple sclerosis. Individuals with these conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using this supplement.

3. Mild Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Some people may experience nausea, increased bowel movements, or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually temporary and reduce with continued use. Consider to lower dosages or taking a break.

5. Interactions with Medications

Gynostemma pentaphyllum can interact with certain medications, altering their effects. This includes drugs for diabetes, as Gynostemma may enhance insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.

6. Limited Research in Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women

There is insufficient research on the safety of Gynostemma pentaphyllum in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Therefore, it's recommended to avoid use during these periods.

Note: Due to the lack of well-designed clinical studies, the list of side effects and drug interactions is not a definite one. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medication.

FDA Compliance

The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration or any other medical body. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. Information is shared for educational purposes only.

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