Jiaogulan: The "Herb of Immortality" for Energy, Resilience & Longevity

If you could sip a tea that supported energy, stress resilience, heart health, and longevity, would you?


That’s exactly why Jiaogulan has been prized for centuries—and why it’s starting to trend with modern wellness seekers.

Known as the “Herb of Immortality” in China, Jiaogulan (pronounced jee-OW-goo-lan) is a wild vine native to southern China and parts of Southeast Asia. It’s packed with powerful adaptogenic compounds that help the body adapt to stress, fight fatigue, and promote overall vitality.

And the best part? It’s a gentle daily tonic—you don’t need to be sick or stressed to enjoy its benefits. In fact, some of the world’s longest-living communities have been sipping Jiaogulan tea for generations.

Here’s why this ancient herb is poised to become your new daily ritual.

 

 

A Brief History of Jiaogulan

Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) is a climbing vine with heart-shaped leaves, found in the mountains of southern China and other parts of Asia.

For centuries, it was used as a folk remedy in remote mountain villages where the locals were known for their exceptional longevity and low rates of disease. It gained its nickname “Herb of Immortality” after surveys in the 1970s revealed that these communities had an unusually high number of healthy elders living well into their 90s and 100s—many of whom drank Jiaogulan tea daily.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Jiaogulan is classified as a tonic herb—meaning it is used to nourish and balance the body over time. While it wasn’t widely written about in ancient TCM texts, modern research has confirmed its adaptogenic, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties.

Today, Jiaogulan is a favorite of herbalists, biohackers, and longevity seekers around the world.

 

The 4 Key Benefits of Jiaogulan

1. Stress Resilience & Adaptogen Power

Like other famous adaptogens (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Tulsi), Jiaogulan helps your body maintain homeostasis—that sweet spot of balance—when you’re under physical or emotional stress.

  • Helps modulate the release of stress hormones like cortisol
  • Supports a calm, focused energy without stimulation
  • Promotes emotional resilience and clarity

Many people find that drinking Jiaogulan tea makes them feel calm but alert—perfect for managing modern life.

2. Cardiovascular Health

Jiaogulan shines as a natural cardiovascular tonic. Studies suggest it can:

  • Help maintain healthy blood pressure
  • Support healthy cholesterol balance
  • Improve circulation
  • Protect blood vessels through its antioxidant effects

No wonder it’s a staple in the diets of some of the world’s healthiest elders.

 Jiaogulan herb benefits

3. Energy & Endurance

One of the most exciting uses of Jiaogulan is for natural energy support. Unlike caffeine, it provides a balanced boost without jitters or crashes.

It works by enhancing mitochondrial function (your cells’ energy factories) and improving oxygen utilization, which translates into:

  • Better physical endurance
  • Improved mental stamina
  • Reduced fatigue

Athletes and high performers often use Jiaogulan to boost workout capacity and sustain focus during long days.

4. Longevity & Antioxidant Protection

At the heart of Jiaogulan’s reputation is its role in promoting longevity.

Jiaogulan contains a unique class of compounds called gypenosides, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects similar to those found in ginseng—except Jiaogulan contains over 80 different gypenosides (compared to about 30 in ginseng).

These compounds help:

  • Protect cells from oxidative stress
  • Support immune function
  • Promote healthy aging

In TCM, Jiaogulan is said to “harmonize the body” and help maintain vitality well into old age.
Jiaogulan tea preparation

How to Use Jiaogulan Today

The easiest way to enjoy Jiaogulan is as a tea:

  • Use 1–2 tsp of dried Jiaogulan leaves per cup of hot water
  • Steep for 5–10 minutes (longer for a stronger brew)
  • Sip daily for best results

The tea is naturally slightly sweet with a pleasant green flavor—no need for added sweeteners.

Other options:

  • Capsules for higher doses

  • Tinctures for easy use on the go

Consistency is key: Jiaogulan is best used as a daily tonic to build resilience over time.

 

 

Final Thoughts: Why This Ancient Vine Belongs in Your Modern Wellness Stack

In a world full of stress, fatigue, and inflammation, Jiaogulan offers a simple, elegant solution.

You don’t need to be sick to benefit—Jiaogulan is about staying well and supporting your body’s innate vitality.

If you’re looking for a natural way to:
 ✅ Boost resilience to stress
 ✅ Support heart health
 ✅ Increase energy and endurance
 ✅ Promote graceful aging

… Jiaogulan deserves a spot in your daily wellness ritual.

 

 

🌿 Challenge: Try the 14-Day Jiaogulan Ritual

✨ Brew a cup of Jiaogulan tea every morning or afternoon for the next 14 days.
 ✨ Pay attention to your energy, focus, mood, and stamina.
 ✨ Share your experience on Instagram with #JiaogulanRitual—we love seeing how ancient plants help modern lives thrive!