Health Benefits and Side Effects of Drinking Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan) Tea
Disease description:
My father’s blood pressure is slightly elevated. A friend suggested drinking water infused with Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan). Could you please explain the health benefits and potential side effects of consuming Jiaogulan tea?
Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan) tea offers significant medicinal value. Clinically, it helps lower blood lipid and glucose levels, protects the liver, and enhances immune function. It also possesses antipyretic, sedative, and anticancer properties. Moderate consumption of Jiaogulan tea can tonify Qi, strengthen the spleen, resolve phlegm, and relieve coughing—making it beneficial for conditions such as Qi deficiency, physical weakness, fatigue, irritability, insomnia, and chronic bronchitis. Additionally, regular intake of Jiaogulan tea significantly reduces blood viscosity, making it particularly suitable for patients with hypertension, cardiovascular spasm disorders, or heart failure.
However, Jiaogulan tea is relatively cold in nature, and excessive or inappropriate use may cause adverse effects—including dizziness, blurred vision, diarrhea, or abdominal distension.
We hope this information is helpful. Wishing you good health!