Jiaogulan: Health Benefits and Consumption and Safety Dosage

In the world of herbal remedies, ginseng and ginkgo biloba have long been favorites for their cognitive and energy-boosting properties. However, jiaogulan, a lesser-known herb, is gaining attention for its potential to significantly impact health and longevity.

Jiaogulan: An Adaptogen on the Rise

Known scientifically as Gynostemma pentaphyllum and colloquially as "southern ginseng" or "miracle grass," jiaogulan has been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries. Native to the mountainous and forested areas of Asia, this vine is now recognized for its impressive health benefits. Dr. Michael Aziz, a New York-based internist, highlights its growing popularity and incorporates 900 milligrams of jiaogulan into his daily regimen. He touts its ability to boost metabolism, lower cholesterol, and reduce inflammation, all contributing to longevity.

The Science Behind Jiaogulan

Jiaogulan is rich in gypenosides, a type of saponin similar to the ginsenosides found in ginseng, but it contains over 80 unique saponins. Dr. Aziz explains that gypenosides "stimulate AMP-activated protein kinase, an enzyme crucial for maintaining cellular energy balance and exhibiting antioxidant effects." These compounds enhance insulin signaling and mitochondrial function, fundamental to cellular energy and overall health, making jiaogulan potent for addressing aging and promoting longevity.

Health Benefits

1. Heart Health and Blood Pressure: Jiaogulan improves circulation and supports healthy blood pressure. A study in the Journal of Human Hypertension found that jiaogulan extract significantly reduced participants' blood pressure.

2. Stress Relief: As an adaptogen akin to ashwagandha and rhodiola, jiaogulan helps manage stress by regulating cortisol levels. Research in Phytomedicine noted its potential in reducing fatigue and enhancing mental clarity.

3. Antioxidant and Anti-aging Effects: Activated AMPK by jiaogulan is associated with cellular repair and longevity, while its antioxidants combat oxidative stress, a crucial factor in aging and chronic disease.

4. Blood Sugar Support: Jiaogulan may boost insulin sensitivity, offering promise for metabolic health, according to a 2020 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology.

5. Immune Modulation: Jiaogulan’s polysaccharides may stimulate immune function, as demonstrated in animal studies that showed increased white blood cell activity.

Consumption and Safety

Jiaogulan can be consumed as tea or in dietary supplements. Dr. Aziz recommends brewing one to two teaspoons of dried leaves in hot water. The taste is bitter, slightly sweet, with an "earthy" quality. Jiaogulan is generally safe, but potential side effects include nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, blurred vision, and tinnitus. It may interact with certain medications, so it is important for individuals, such as diabetics, to consult a healthcare provider prior to use.

Dosage & Preparation:

- Tea: Use 2–3 grams of dried leaves steeped in hot water, taken 1–3 times daily.

- Extract/Tincture: Take 30–60 drops (1–2 mL) of a 1:5 extract, 1–3 times daily.

- Capsules: Consume 500–1,000 mg standardized extract, 1–2 times daily.

A Promising Future

Research into jiaogulan continues to expand, showcasing its potential to enhance longevity, support heart health, and provide stress relief, making it an attractive addition to wellness routines.

Similar Adaptogenic Herbs:

- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – Stress relief, energy

- Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) – Fatigue reduction, cognitive support

- Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) – Anti-anxiety, metabolic health

- Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) – Immune modulation, longevity

Dr. Aziz believes jiaogulan is an extraordinary herb deserving more attention in the West due to the scientific backing of its health benefits. As awareness grows, jiaogulan may soon rival popular adaptogens as a leading herbal remedy for modern health challenges.