You’ve likely heard of ginseng and green tea, but there’s another ancient herb making waves in the wellness world—and it might just outshine them both.
Meet jiaogulan (pronounced jee-OW-goo-lan), the “immortality herb” long revered in Asian folk medicine and now gaining attention for its impressive health benefits. Dr. Michael Aziz, a board-certified internist in New York City, calls it “one of the best-kept secrets in herbal medicine,” noting that “few in the U.S. know about it.”
Known scientifically as Gynostemma pentaphyllum and nicknamed “southern ginseng,” jiaogulan grows wild in the mountainous regions of Asia and is traditionally consumed as a tea. And it’s not just folklore—it boasts antioxidant power eight times higher than green tea, thanks to compounds called gypenosides. These saponins are structurally similar to those found in ginseng but may offer even broader benefits.
What can this earthy-tasting herb do for your body? Studies suggest it may:
- Boost metabolism and energy
- Improve insulin sensitivity
- Lower cholesterol and blood pressure
- Reduce inflammation
- Support liver and cardiovascular health
- Help manage stress and fatigue
Dr. Aziz notes that jiaogulan may even support longevity and anti-aging by enhancing mitochondrial function—the powerhouse of your cells.
To brew it, steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried jiaogulan leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. The taste is mildly bitter with a sweet finish, but the health payoff is worth it.
While jiaogulan is generally safe, some users report mild nausea or digestive upset. And if you’re on medications—especially for diabetes—talk to your doctor before adding it to your daily routine.
