Immortality Herb Powder (Gynostemma pentaphyllum; Jiao Gu Lan) 1 lb: C

This is Starwest's nitrogen-flushed double wall silverfoil pack. This herb is used as a tea, decoction or capsule. Jiaogulan (pronounced 'jee-ow-goo-lan') is a vine which grows wild in mountainous areas of Southern China and other parts of Asia. In China, the herb is known as 'herb of immortality' as it is believed to delay aging and increase endurance. The scientific community became interested in the herb after two Japanese researchers stumbled across it looking for a sugar alternative. They discovered that the plant contained ingredients very similar to those found in ginseng. Further research showed that jiaogulan has a wide range of actions in the body, with a general overall effect of helping to balance and regulate body systems, such as the cardiovascular and hormonal systems. Studies have since been conducted which indicate that jiaogulan has antioxidant properties and helps support circulation and immune systems. Jiaogulan contains substances called gypenosides. These are similar to the active constituents in ginseng, but jiaogulan contains over three times as many. Furthermore, jiaogulan is believed to have a superior action to ginseng, being more supportive without causing overstimulation. In China it is often referred to as 'women's ginseng' since it is considered to be much kinder to women's body systems than ginseng. Because jiaogulan, as one of the main adaptogenic herbs, helps to support a number of body functions and helps to support the body in times of stress it can be beneficial for a range of people. It is particularly recommended for those who want to try and improve their energy levels, who would like to support and maintain their blood pressure, support maintaining a healthy cholesterol balance, support with a healthy immune system, assist the circulation and aid a bright and clear mind. It is also used to enhance athletic performance - especially as a constituent in a formula with extracts of dan shen and panax ginseng.