Jiaogulan (Gynostemma) Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide
Jiaogulan is an adaptogen used to support heart health, enhance energy, and promote longevity.
Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) is a climbing vine native to parts of Asia, often called the “herb of immortality” due to its traditional use in promoting longevity and resilience. It is popular in teas and herbal formulas.
Rich in gypenosides—similar to the ginsenosides found in ginseng—Jiaogulan is believed to support energy, cardiovascular function, and stress adaptation. It is considered an adaptogen with a broad range of effects.
Jiaogulan is commonly taken to support blood pressure, energy, and metabolic balance. Although animal studies are promising, more human clinical trials are needed to verify its health benefits.
Other names & forms of Jiaogulan (Gynostemma) supplement : gynostemma pentaphyllum, southern ginseng, jiaogulan herb, jiaogulan extract
Benefits
Jiaogulan offers a wide range of health benefits, particularly for heart health, energy levels, and stress management:
- It may support cardiovascular function and help regulate cholesterol, contributing to heart health.
- People take Jiaogulan to boost energy and stamina, linking it to energy and metabolism.
- It may also help regulate blood sugar levels, offering support for blood sugar management.
- Thanks to its adaptogenic nature, it may help reduce stress and promote emotional balance, supporting nervous system health.
Dosage
Health professionals suggest that the dosage of Jiaogulan (Gynostemma) supplement be customized for each individual:
- Cardiovascular and antioxidant support: 300–600 mg/day of Jiaogulan extract (standardized to gypenosides).
- Endurance and adaptogenic use: Up to 1000 mg/day in divided doses.
- Tea from dried leaves: 2–4 grams/day infused in hot water.
- Recommendation: Best taken in the morning; may lower blood pressure.
Side Effects
Jiaogulan, often called “Southern Ginseng,” can boost endurance, but as your body adapts, you may experience mild side effects. Watch out for:
- Occasional stomach upset or mild diarrhea, especially when taken on an empty stomach
- Headache or dizziness in sensitive individuals
- Possible mild rash or itching in those with herb sensitivities
- Temporary changes in blood pressure (slight drop or rise) at higher doses
- Rare fatigue or drowsiness as the body adjusts to increased energy metabolism
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies: Jiaogulan’s saponins may enhance the bleeding risk when combined with warfarin or herbs like Garlic and Ginkgo Biloba.
- Blood sugar medications: By improving insulin sensitivity, Jiaogulan can potentiate the effects of insulin or Cinnamon, necessitating closer glucose monitoring to avoid hypoglycemia.
- Blood pressure drugs: Its adaptogenic compounds may add to ACE inhibitors or supplements like L-Arginine, risking excessive blood pressure reduction.
- Immunosuppressants: Jiaogulan’s immune-balancing effects could counteract medications such as corticosteroids; discuss use with your healthcare provider.
Precautions
Before adding Jiaogulan to your routine, confirm that you aren’t at higher risk. If any apply, consult your healthcare provider:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited safety data; best used only under professional guidance
- Individuals with low blood pressure: Jiaogulan may further lower blood pressure; monitor closely
- People on blood-thinning medications: Potential to affect clotting; use with caution
- Those with hormone-sensitive conditions: May influence estrogen or testosterone; avoid if you have hormone-driven cancers
- Patients scheduled for surgery: May interfere with blood sugar or clotting during anesthesia; discontinue at least two weeks before
Studies
These studies provide scientific insights into Jiaogulan (Gynostemma) benefits:
A 2016 double-blind RCT in 60 dyslipidemic adults showed 12 weeks of 6 g/day Gynostemma pentaphyllum tea reduced LDL-C by 12% versus 3% with placebo (P < 0.01) and increased HDL-C by 8% (P < 0.05).
A 2013 randomized trial in 45 hypertensive adults found 3 g/day Jiaogulan extract for 8 weeks lowered systolic blood pressure by 8 mmHg versus no change in placebo (P < 0.05).
A 2021 placebo-controlled study in healthy volunteers reported no improvement in perceived fatigue or exercise endurance after 4 weeks of 1 g/day Jiaogulan extract versus placebo.
A 2015 meta-analysis of 5 trials in type 2 diabetics concluded that Gynostemma pentaphyllum modestly reduced fasting glucose (MD –0.6 mmol/L; 95% CI: –1.1 to –0.1) but evidence quality was low.
This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.
Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Jiaogulan (Gynostemma) supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.