Gynostemma pentaphyllum is the scientific name of jiaogulan (pronounced gee-OW-goo-lahn). Jiaogulan is a Chinese herb sometimes called the immortality herb because of its health benefits. Jiaogulan is high in antioxidants, which reduce cell damage from free radicals that contribute to aging. It is also adaptogenic, meaning it works to correct several imbalances in the body.
Benefits
According to Herb.com, jiaogulan leaves can protect the heart and liver, increase energy, lower cholesterol and boost the immune system.
Function
Natural News reports the herb modulates blood pressure by lowering high blood pressure or raising low blood pressure. According to Asiachi.com, jiaogulan leaves reduce blood pressure by increasing the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes the walls of blood vessels.
Expert Insight
Christopher Gussa, a practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine and a reporter for Natural News, claims jiaogulan inhibits the aggregation of platelets that cause blood clots, thus reducing the likelihood of strokes.
Effects
Jiaogulan leaves can improve cholesterol readings by decreasing the "bad" cholesterol, LDL, while increasing the "good" cholesterol, HDL.
Considerations
According to the herbalist Christoper Gussa, jiaogulan can stimulate the production of natural killer cells in cancer patients while possibly inhibiting the growth of cancer cells in the liver or uterus.
Types
Jiaogulan leaves can be prepared as a tea or purchased in a prepared capsule.
Tags: blood pressure, Natural News