Jiaogulan

Species Name: Gynostemma.

Also known as: Miracle Grass, Gynostemma pentaphyllum, Amachazuru, Xianxao, Southern Ginseng, Vitis pentaphyllum.

The leaves of the Jiaogulan have been used as a tea in China for centuries. It has such wonderful rejuvenating properties that it was even nicknamed as the “immortality herb”.

It is considered a Chinese traditional medicine and has even been used for hepatitis and arteriosclerosis.

It is believed that using Jiaogulan can help slow down the ageing process and it has a very sweet and aromatic taste.

What is Jiaogulan: The herb Jiaogulan is a member of the cucumber family. It has a five leaf cluster that is very distinctive and it grows low to the ground.

It is a native of China, Japan and Korea. The parts used as herbal remedies include the root and the part above the ground that is called the aerial. It is effective in helping the body to strengthen itself by providing it with vital nourishment.

The Jiaogulan requires a rich soil that holds moisture but a place that does not have standing water. It needs to be in a warm environment to grow best but not placed in the direct sunlight.

It can be grown in a greenhouse or areas that have long hot summers, but will not do well in a cold environment. It is considered a climbing plant and has vines that it uses to attach itself to objects surrounding it. It is classified as a short-lived persistent plant.

Home remedies using Jiaogulan:

Benefits of Jiaogulan:

Some of the greatest benefits of using Jiaogular are the effects that it has on the heart and blood vessels.

It is believed that it helps to strengthen the heart and reduce the thickness of the blood components that are called platelets. This is great for people that run a high risk of heart disease.

Jiaogular is an antioxidant and it is possible that it could be used as an agent to stimulate the immune system and to help prevent cancer.

It is beneficial in clearing and eliminating toxins from the body and helps to moistens the lungs and get rid of phlegm.

Uses of Jiaogulan:

  • Inflammation
  • Preventing heart conditions
  • Neuralgia
  • Asthma
  • Migraine
  • Tea
  • Powder

Side Effects of Jiaogulan:

There are very few side effects know from taking Jiaogulan although, some people have reported having shortness of breath, drooling, chest congestion and nausea.

It is not recommended for small children, women who are pregnant or nursing to use this herb.