Botanical Overview
Gynostemma pentaphyllum is a climbing herbaceous vine belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. Commonly known as Jiaogulan or Southern Ginseng, it is native to East and Southeast Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. The aerial parts, especially the leaves, are used medicinally and traditionally brewed into infusions.
Energetics
This plant has a cooling temperature and moistening moisture quality. It is characterized by bitter and sweet tastes and exhibits ascending and outward directionality. Its tonic nature is tonifying, primarily influencing qi and blood aspects in traditional energetic frameworks.
Primary Actions
- Adaptogen
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Cholesterol-lowering
- Immunomodulator
Indications
Western
- Fatigue
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Inflammation
- Oxidative stress
- Immune weakness
Syndromes
- Metabolic syndrome
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Chronic fatigue
- Oxidative stress-related disorders
TCM
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Poor immunity
Syndromes
- Qi deficiency
- Blood deficiency
- Spleen Qi deficiency
- General vitality decline
Ayurveda
Not commonly used or documented.
Unani
Not commonly used or documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include gypenosides (a group of saponins), flavonoids, polysaccharides, and steroids, which contribute to the plant’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-6 g dried aerial parts, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL, 1-3 times daily
- Extract powder: 100–300 mg gypenosides daily
Safety & Contraindications
Gynostemma pentaphyllum is generally safe in moderate doses. Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. It may potentiate the effects of antihypertensive, anticoagulant, and hypoglycemic drugs, so monitoring is recommended. Avoid use if hypotension or hypoglycemia is present.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable sources were found to attribute planetary or elemental rulers for this plant.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future (PFAF): Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan)
- World Health Organization (WHO) Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, 2004
- Chen, S. et al., Pharmacological properties of Gynostemma pentaphyllum: a review, 2014
- Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission, Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 Edition