Jiaogulan (Gynostemma) – The “Immortality Herb”

Jiaogulan (Immortality Herb): Benefits, TCM Theory, Research & How to Brew

Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum), known as the “Immortality Herb” (Xiancao in Chinese), has earned worldwide attention for its role in longevity, resilience, and metabolic support. With antioxidant levels reported to be up to eight times higher than green tea, Jiaogulan is studied for its ability to support healthy blood sugar, cholesterol balance, cardiovascular vitality, and overall stress resistance.

Rooted in Southern China’s mountain villages — where people are famously long-lived — and validated by modern PubMed-backed research, Jiaogulan has become one of today’s most searched herbal adaptogens.

Quick Summary

TCM Perspective

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Jiaogulan is considered a Qi and Yin tonic with cooling and balancing properties. Practitioners traditionally use it to:

• Strengthen Qi: Supports vitality, stamina, and recovery.

• Nourish Yin: Balances dryness, heat, and internal stress.

• Calm Shen (Spirit): Eases worry and supports restful sleep.

• Support the Heart and Lungs: Enhances circulation and breathing capacity.

Folklore & History

In Guizhou Province, villagers who regularly drank Jiaogulan tea were noted for exceptional longevity and low rates of chronic disease. This gave rise to its legendary nickname, the “Immortality Herb.”

Jiaogulan was first described in the Materia Medica for Famine Relief (1578) and later recognized as a Qi-strengthening herb comparable to ginseng — earning the name “Southern Ginseng.” Folklore says farmers drank it daily in tea form, believing it kept their bodies resilient through long days of labor.

Modern Research (PubMed)

Antioxidant Activity

• Gypenosides, the main active compounds in Jiaogulan, show powerful antioxidant and free-radical scavenging activity (PMID: 28085013).

Blood Sugar Support

• Jiaogulan extract has been shown to help regulate blood glucose and insulin sensitivity (PMID: 26589290).

Cholesterol & Cardiovascular Function

• Clinical studies suggest Jiaogulan supports healthy lipid levels and circulation (PMID: 25794174).

Adaptogen Properties

• Jiaogulan may help the body adapt to stress, improving energy and reducing fatigue, much like ginseng (PMID: 19152034).

Liver Protection

• Animal models suggest hepatoprotective benefits through antioxidant pathways (PMID: 30071127).

Longevity Research

• Experimental studies show gypenosides may extend lifespan in model organisms by regulating oxidative stress and energy metabolism (PMID: 30811414).

The Real Important Question... Jiaogulan vs. Green Tea

Key takeaway: Jiaogulan offers a caffeine-free, adaptogen-rich alternative to green tea with broader systemic benefits.

Jiaogulan as an Adaptogen

• Balances energy: Uplifts when fatigued, calms when overstimulated.

• Supports resilience: Helps the body adapt to stressors.

• Enhances stamina: Athletes use Jiaogulan for endurance.

• Promotes calm focus: Without caffeine’s jitteriness.

How to Use Jiaogulan

Tea/Infusion (most traditional)

• 1–2 tsp dried Jiaogulan leaves in 8 oz hot water.

• Steep 5–7 minutes.

• Mildly sweet and slightly bitter taste.

Powder

• 1–2 grams mixed into warm water, tea, or smoothies.

Capsules/Extracts

• Convenient daily option, especially for those who dislike herbal teas.

How-To Recipe: Longevity Jiaogulan Tea

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon dried Jiaogulan leaf

• 1 thin slice fresh ginger

• 1 teaspoon goji berries (optional, for added flavor and energy)

• 8 ounces hot water (about 190°F / 88°C)

Directions

1. Place the Jiaogulan leaf, ginger, and goji berries into a teapot or mug.

2. Pour hot water (not boiling) over the ingredients.

3. Cover and steep for about 5 minutes.

4. Strain if needed, then sip slowly and enjoy.

Tip: For a stronger brew, let it steep a few minutes longer, or re-steep the leaves a second time.

Safety & Cautions

• Generally well tolerated in traditional amounts.

• Avoid high doses during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or when taking blood thinners unless supervised.

• As with any herb, consult a licensed healthcare professional before long-term use.

Herb Comparisons

FAQs

Q: Can Jiaogulan help with blood sugar?
A: Studies suggest it may support healthy glucose metabolism, but it is not a substitute for medical treatment.

Q: Is Jiaogulan safe for daily use?
A: Yes, in moderate amounts it’s often consumed daily as tea.

Q: Why is it called the “Immortality Herb”?
A: Villages in Southern China linked longevity to drinking Jiaogulan tea regularly.

Q: How does it compare to ginseng?
A: Both are adaptogens, but Jiaogulan is cooling and gentler, while ginseng is warming and stimulating.

Buying Guide: What to Look For

When purchasing Jiaogulan:

• Lab-tested for purity

• GMP-certified production

• Geo-authentic sourcing (grown in China’s mountain regions)

• Cut leaf or full-leaf form (best quality for tea)

Shop trusted Jiaogulan (Immortality Herb) teas, powders, and extracts at 1st Chinese Herbs.

Related Links

• How to Use Bulk Herb

• 10 Vital Medicinal Herbs That Work (Free Ebook)

Trust & Quality

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