Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) is a vine from Southeast Asia that people call Southern Ginseng because it shares traits with true ginseng. The leaves and stems contain gypenosides, a group of saponins linked to the body's stress response and overall vitality.
People take it to support physical and mental stamina, steady mood, and heart function. It helps maintain blood pressure and cholesterol already in the normal range. Some also reach for it to assist healthy blood sugar levels and to bolster immune defenses.
You can drink it as tea from dried leaves or take it as a capsule or tincture. Any time of day works, though taking it with food can ease digestion when using an extract.
Cautions: Jiaogulan can lower blood pressure and blood sugar, so move carefully if you already take medications for hypertension or diabetes. It may thin the blood mildly. Check with your doctor before using it alongside anticoagulants. Skip it entirely during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.