Herbal & Flower Teas
Jiaogulan Tea (Gynostemma pentaphyllum)
Traditionally associated with antioxidant support and immune-system wellness
Why people make this tea
Jiaogulan — called “the poor man’s ginseng” in parts of Asia — has been used as a folk remedy and daily tea in regions of southern China and Southeast Asia for centuries. What makes it interesting to the modern reader is that it is one of the better-studied traditional herbs: it contains a family of plant compounds called gypenosides (saponins) that are structurally similar to the ginsenosides in ginseng and the active compounds in several anti-cancer agents. Research has explored its effects on immune function, lipid metabolism, and cellular health, though the evidence for specific health claims remains ongoing. Bro Niu recommends it as a pleasant, accessible daily tea — particularly for those who want a caffeine-free alternative with a good traditional track record. It tastes mildly grassy, clean, and slightly sweet; most people find it easy to drink.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suitable as a daily wellness tea for most adults; particularly noted in traditional practice for supporting throat health, mental clarity, cardiovascular health, and liver function.
- Jiaogulan has a cooling nature — people with a cold or weak digestive constitution (prone to loose stools, feeling cold, or poor appetite) should limit intake or add a piece of dried tangerine peel when brewing.
- Pregnant women should avoid herbal teas as a general precaution.
- People on medication for cholesterol, blood pressure, or blood thinners should consult their doctor before drinking regularly, as the herb may interact with these medications.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Jiaogulan (jiao gu lan): Contains gypenosides, a class of plant saponins. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is associated with supporting the throat, reducing phlegm, improving mental focus, and supporting the liver. Modern pharmacological studies have explored its potential effects on tumour cell DNA replication, immune modulation, and lipid-lowering activity. Bro Niu recommends the tender-leaf variety (processed like tea leaves) rather than whole-stem products, as the flavour is more refined and consistent.
Ingredients (4–5 cups)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jiaogulan tea leaves (jiao gu lan) | 1–2 tablespoons | Use tender-leaf variety; rinse briefly before steeping |
Method
- Place the jiaogulan tea leaves in a teapot or heatproof vessel.
- Rinse the leaves once with boiling water; pour this water away. This brief rinse awakens the leaves and removes any dust.
- Pour in fresh boiling water. Cover and steep for 5 minutes.
- Pour and enjoy. The same leaves can be re-steeped 4–5 times throughout the day, each time steeping a little longer than the last.
Bro Niu’s tips
Jiaogulan is known in traditional Chinese medicine as “golden throat” (jin sang zi) and is associated with helping sore throats, mental fatigue, low white blood cell count (e.g. after chemotherapy), high cholesterol, viral hepatitis, chronic bronchitis, and chronic gastritis. Bro Niu specifically recommends choosing the tender-leaf type that has been processed like tea — it has a cleaner aroma and will not conflict with other herbs if you blend it. For cancer patients or those wishing to add a warming element, add a slice or two of dried tangerine peel to the pot. The cooling nature of jiaogulan is worth keeping in mind: if your stomach feels sensitive after drinking, add the tangerine peel and reduce the amount slightly.
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (YY): My 80-year-old mother has colorectal cancer with a small bowel stoma. She loves tea. Can she drink jiaogulan tea? Can she buy it at regular herbal shops? Bro Niu: Jiaogulan tea would be beneficial for your mother, but it is on the cooling side. I recommend adding a piece of dried tangerine peel when brewing to moderate this. Alternatively, add two or three sliced dried figs — they are especially supportive for the intestinal tract and well suited for someone with colorectal cancer. You should be able to find jiaogulan at most Chinese herbal shops.
Published July 4, 2019 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 3 min read.
