Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) is a climbing plant that occurs naturally in parts of Asia. The dried leaves are used to make a herbal infusion with a characteristic bittersweet flavor.

The plant is sometimes referred to as southern ginseng, although Jiaogulan is not botanically ginseng at all. So where does that name come from, and what exactly is Jiaogulan?

What is Jiaogulan?

Jiaogulan, whose botanical name is Gynostemma pentaphyllum, belongs to the cucumber family (Cucurbitaceae). This plant family also includes cucumber and melon.

The plant grows as a climbing vine and is found in various parts of East and Southeast Asia. The leaves in particular are well known and are dried to make a herbal infusion.

What does Jiaogulan taste like?

Jiaogulan has a distinctive flavor that is difficult to compare with classic tea. The infusion combines a slight bitterness with a soft, somewhat sweet aftertaste and spicy, vegetal notes.

The flavor can vary depending on the leaves used, the quantity and the steeping time. If you are trying Jiaogulan for the first time, it is therefore best to start with a relatively mild infusion and then adjust the preparation to suit your own taste.

Is Jiaogulan real tea?

Botanically speaking, Jiaogulan is not real tea. Green, white, oolong and black tea are made from the tea plant Camellia sinensis. Jiaogulan is made from Gynostemma pentaphyllum.

A drink made from Jiaogulan leaves is therefore more accurately called a herbal infusion.

Why is Jiaogulan called 'southern ginseng'?

Jiaogulan is sometimes referred to as southern ginseng. This name can be confusing, because Jiaogulan and true ginseng are different plants.

Ginseng belongs to the genus Panax and is mainly used for its root. With Jiaogulan, the leaves are used instead.

The comparison arose partly because both plants contain certain groups of natural plant compounds called saponins. In Jiaogulan, these compounds are often referred to as gypenosides.

Is Jiaogulan the same as ginseng?

No. Jiaogulan is not a type of ginseng and cannot botanically be considered ginseng.

The nickname 'southern ginseng' therefore does not refer to the plant's botanical origin. Jiaogulan has its own origin, composition and flavor profile.

Why is Jiaogulan also called the 'herb of immortality'?

In stories and commercial names, Jiaogulan is sometimes called the 'herb of immortality'. This nickname refers to the plant's traditional reputation in certain parts of China.

However, the name should not be interpreted literally. There is no scientific evidence that Jiaogulan helps people live longer or makes them 'immortal'.

What does research say about Jiaogulan?

Jiaogulan and various compounds found in the plant, including gypenosides, are the subject of scientific research.

However, this does not mean that all traditional or commercial health claims about Jiaogulan have been proven. Results from laboratory research or small clinical studies cannot automatically be translated into proven health effects from daily use.

That is why at Mingtea we primarily consider Jiaogulan a distinctive Asian herbal infusion with a characteristic flavor and an interesting botanical background.

How do you prepare Jiaogulan?

Jiaogulan can be prepared in the same simple way as many other herbal infusions. Use hot water and let the leaves steep for a few minutes.

You can adjust the exact quantity, temperature and steeping time to achieve the desired flavor. For our Jiaogulan, consult the specific preparation instructions for the product.

Discover Jiaogulan at Mingtea

Discover Jiaogulan at Mingtea

Curious about the flavor? Discover our Jiaogulan and get to know this distinctive Asian herbal infusion.