Jiaogulan, Immortality Herb

Jiaogulan or Jiao Gu Lan, also called Immortality Herb, grows widely across South and East Asia. Evoking the sweet earthiness of ginseng or licorice root, and faint spice. If you think "cucumber", then the sweet–bitter combination makes a lot of sense. A mineral note and vegetal heft makes people think of green tea.

This plant in the Cucurbitaceae family has many other names, including "miracle grass", "southern ginseng" and of course its scientific names Gynostemma and Gynostemma pentaphyllum. Traditional Chinese Medicine has long used Jiaogulan stems and leaves as medicine. Now, around the world, folks "in the know" enjoy this herbal tea's rich flavor and adaptogenic qualities.

Chinese studies report that Jiaogulan can help lower cholesterol, aid digestion, and promote overall good health. It may also regulate blood pressure, build immunity, help regulate blood sugar, and provide a powerful antioxidant boost. The name “Immortality Herb” originates from the high number of people living into longevity in the region where Jiaogulan comes from.

Brew at about 140° F (lukewarm) for two minutes. This herb packs loads of goodness and flavor alike, so we recommend many subsequent re-steeps of the same leaves. Aficionados agree: there's nothing else quite like it in the tea world.

Life is short! Drink up. And read more on the LMTC blog about Jiaogulan, Immortality Herb.