Gynostemma, or Jiao Gu Lan, is also known as Five-Leaf Ginseng. Botanically, it has not relation to the Ginseng plant, but due to its incredibly healing and strengthening effects on the body, it shares the Ginseng reputation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is categorized as an Herb that Tonifies Qi, which is a broad category, but it is regularly used for challenging diagnoses like chronic migraines, neuralgia, and cancer. From a Western perspective, Jiao Gu Lan classified as an adaptogen, which works in the body to get back into balance, or achieve homeostasis. It is said to help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, fight the effects of aging, reduce stress, boost immunity, and build the body’s ability to adjust. Please read box for specific dosage and preparation recommendations.