What is Jiaogulan? - Jiaogulan (scientific name Gynostemma Pentaphyllum), is a member of the
cucumber family. As the name implies, it grows in characteristic five leaf clusters and is
a low lying vine or ground cover. Jiaogulan leaves have been used for centuries in
China and make a refreshing and healthy tea.
What are Adaptogens? - Russian scientist N. V. Lazarev coined the term adaptogen in 1947 to describe herbs
that have "a normalizing action on various bodily functions regardless of the direction
of the pathological condition." In other words, an adaptogen is an herb that helps the
body self- regulate. If something is out of balance, either too much of something or
too little of something, an adaptogen helps the body return to the ideal state.
What are Jiaogulan's Benefi ts? - Jiaogulan may have a direct strengthening eff ect on the heart , possibly causing the
heart to beat more powerfully. It may also have a number of secondary cardiovascular
effects in promoting healthy blood pressure, healthy digestion, strength and
endurance. In addition, gynostemma has been shown in laboratory studies to widen
blood vessels.
Is Regenerations Jiaogulan Tea Organic? - Yes!, Regenerations Jiaogulan Tea is cultivated Organically meaning no chemicals or
pesticides are used along the entire harvesting process.
Can I prepare Jiaogulan as an Ice Tea? - Yes!, Jiaogulan is a refreshing iced tea. Just prepare the tea as normal and then chill.
What Drug interactions should I watch out for? - In studies, Jiaogulan has been shown to increase the time blood needs to clot. When
it is taken with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs, the eff ect of the drug may be
increased, resulting in uncontrolled bleeding. Antiplatelets include clopidogrel and
Ticlid Anticoagulants include heparin and warfarin. Because it can affect immune
system function, gynostemma may interfere with the effects of drugs used to suppress
the immune system after organ transplants or in other conditions.
Taking gynostemma
is not recommended for patients who take drugs such as: azathioprine (Imuran),
CellCept, cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), Prograf, Rapamune, Zenapax.
How should I brew Jiaogulan Tea? - Jiaogulan is a delicate tea. Heat the water, then turn off the heat just prior to the
water coming to a boil. Steep the tea for 2-3 minutes until a light golden color.
Add a teaspoon of Jiaogulan Herbal Tea to 8 oz. (250 mL) of boiled pure water, steep for 3-4 minutes until tea turns light golden color.
For best results try 4 to 8 cups daily for 3 months.
