What is gynostemma pentaphyllum?

If you’re looking for a plant that can do it all, gynostemma pentaphyllum might just be the answer. This unassuming vine, which goes by many names (including Jiaogulan and Southern Ginseng), has been used for centuries in traditional medicine across Asia – but only recently is gaining popularity in Western circles. Despite its intimidating name, this plant is worth getting to know.

What Makes Gynostemma Pentaphyllum So Special?

A Potent Adaptogen

Adaptogens are substances that help our bodies adapt to stress – something we could all use more of these days. As an adaptogenic herb, gynostemma pentaphyllum may help reduce stress and improve mood balance.

An Anti-Inflammatory Agent

Many of us suffer from chronic inflammation caused by things like poor diet or environmental toxins. Fortunately for us, this humble plant has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that some believe can help reduce swelling and pain throughout the body.

A Natural Source of Antioxidants

Antioxidants help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals – unstable molecules produced in our normal metabolic processes, as well as exposure to pollution and radiation. These little guys play a role important role in helping maintain overall health and wellbeing.

Supports Cardiovascular Health

One 2011 study looked at the effect gynostemma had on patients with high blood pressure found that consuming extract over a period significantly reduced systolic blood pressure versus placebo while also positively affecting other cardiovascular factors including cholesterol levels.

Of course there are skeptics out there who question whether one small green vine can really do so much – often wondering if it’s just snake oil 2.0 marketed under fancy packaging! But once they dive into considerable basket of scientific research available today (or sample for themselves) they come to realize gynostemma pentaphyllum is the real deal. But before we dive into much detail, let’s clarify what this little leafy guy actually is.

What Exactly Is Gynostemma Pentaphyllum?

A Little Plant History

Originally from Eastern Asia (China, Japan, Korea), this plant was mostly cultivated as a tea and was consumed by farmers who used it to enhance their stamina while working long hours in fields. The first written record of Jiaogulan appeared in books dating back hundreds of years Chinese medicine practitioners have been using Jiaogulan to treat respiratory infections, coughs and cold and other ailments for ages.

A Vine That Clings

Gynostemma pentaphyllum belongs to the cucurbitaceae family which includes pumpkins and melons although physically resembles the Morning Glory plants within Convolvulaceae family. With its heart-shaped deep green leaves atop thin stalks growing opposite each other resembling an umbrella shape over time stretches out like vines often up trees or various supports.

Fun fact for botanical snobs: Gynostemma can also be eaten raw either like salad greens or as wraps because unlike most members of Cucurbitaceae family has glycosides instead bitter compounds.

Many Different Names

As mentioned earlier, you’re likely familiar with quite few nicknames such as ‘the immortality herb’ , Southern Ginseng etc.. – these all refer to same thing – but regardless how oh-so-lovely monikers may sound they all describe one incredible vine.

How Can You Enjoy Gynostemma Pentaphyllum?

There are several ways that people enjoy consuming gynostemma pentaphyllum:

  1. Tea: Traditional method is steeping dried leaves in hot water just like any other herbal tea leaves.
  2. Powdered Supplement: Available as capsule, extract or powdered supplement in many health food stores and online.
  3. Smoothies: Frozen fruit? Check. Milk alternative? Check! Sprinkling of gynostemma powder in the blender? Triple check!
  4. Salads-Wraps: The fresh leaves themselves can serve as salad greens.

Perhaps one of the most popular ways to enjoy this herb is simply steeping it hot water and sipping on the delicious (yet unique) liquid.

How Safe Is Gynostemma Pentaphyllum?

As with any herbal supplement, you should always consult your doctor before adding a new substance to your routine – particularly if you have an existing medical condition or are taking medication that may interact with certain herbs.

Safety-wise there are few things to keep in mind:

  • P regnant women should avoid gynostemma pentaphyllum due stimulating nature plant may possess;
  • Side effects reported some consumers include mild nausea & bloating but toxicity cases rarer than queen snake sightings

That being said – when consumed responsibly and under professional guidance – no need fear enjoying all Jiaogulan has offer!

Final Thoughts

Now that we’ve given it its proper due praise, we hope you feel yourself pulling open that baggie of dried greenery a little faster with a newfound respect for this charming yet potent vine known as gynnostemmapentiphyllum.

  • It’s worth repeating: don’t take our word for how wonderful this plant is– go out and experience it for yourself!

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