​Gynostemma Pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan / Southern Ginseng)

Gynostemma Pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan / Southern Ginseng)

Product Name: Гиностемма пятилистная, Gynostemma pentaphyllum, Fünfblättriger Gynostemma, Gynostemma de cinco hojas, Gynostemma à cinq folioles, الجنستا ذو الخمس أوراق, ปัญจขันธ์, Gynostemma bes bargli, Бешбаргак гиностеммасы, Beşbarglı giynostemma, Гиностемма панҷбарга, Penkių lapų gijostema, Pieclapu gijostema, Гіностема п’ятилистна, ג'ינוקסטמה עם חמישה עלעלים

Synonyms: Гиностемма, Ампелопсис пятилистный, Южный женьшень, Джяогулань / Gynostemma, Southern Ginseng, Jiaogulan / Gynostemma, Südlicher Ginseng / Gynostemma, Ginseng del sur / Gynostemma, Ginseng du sud / الجنسنغ الجنوبي، الجنستا / ปัญจขันธ์, เจียวกู่หลาน

Parts used: leaves, fermented leaves, stems, roots, aerial parts, whole plant, fresh juice extracts, aqueous and alcoholic fraction extracts, plant powder, dried raw material.

Main indications for the use of Gynostemma pentaphyllum: Arterial hypertension, hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, chronic heart failure, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, obesity, chronic hepatitis, steatohepatitis, liver cirrhosis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, chronic gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthenoneurotic syndrome, chronic fatigue, immunodeficiency syndrome, oncological diseases in palliative therapy.

Use of Gynostemma pentaphyllum in mixtures and complexes: Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, dyscirculatory encephalopathy, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, psychosomatic disorders, autoimmune connective tissue diseases, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, anemia of chronic diseases, benign prostatic hyperplasia, polycystic ovary syndrome, infertility against the background of endocrine disorders.

Pharmacological properties of Gynostemma pentaphyllum: antioxidant, adaptogenic, immunostimulating, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, sedative, anti-stress, angioprotective, antispasmodic, expectorant, bronchodilatory, anticoagulant, radioprotective, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antihypertensive.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Powder — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Indications (Powder): Arterial hypertension, hyperlipidemia, metabolic syndrome, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, steatohepatitis, chronic gastritis, gastric ulcer disease.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 1 gram of powder 2 times a day, with warm water, 30 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 1.5 grams 3 times a day for pronounced metabolic syndrome, grade 2 and 3 obesity, insulin resistance, and a combination of hyperlipidemia and steatohepatitis.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): 2 grams 3 times a day in conditions of resistant arterial hypertension, pronounced obesity with type 2 diabetes mellitus and fatty hepatosis.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.5 grams once a day in the morning. Recommended for patients with a hereditary predisposition to cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, persons with a sedentary lifestyle, and patients with chronic stress. Frequency: 2 months of intake — 1 month break.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): From 12 years, with a body weight from 35 kg. 0.25–0.5 grams of powder once a day after meals. Same for girls and boys.

Contraindications (Powder): Individual intolerance, severe forms of hypotension, acute psychoses, conditions after organ transplantation. No scientific data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years have been registered.

Side Effects (Powder): Scientifically registered: dyspeptic disorders, nausea, headache, hypotensive effect in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): For patients with body weight below 60 kg — reduction of dosage by 25%. For patients over 90 kg — an increase in dosage by 25% is possible while maintaining tolerability.

Preparation method (Powder): To prepare 100 grams of powder, 100 grams of dried leaves of Gynostemma pentaphyllum are required. The leaves are dried at a temperature of 40–45 degrees Celsius in the shade, then ground to a powder state in a stainless steel mill. Sieved through a sieve with a mesh diameter of no more than 0.3 millimeters. Store in an airtight container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in a dry, dark, cool place at a temperature not exceeding 25 degrees Celsius, away from direct heat and light sources. Do not allow contact with metal surfaces. Shield from electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — up to 12 months. After opening, use within 60 days.

Dry Extract — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Indications (Dry Extract): Type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, steatohepatitis, chronic fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 200 milligrams of dry extract 2 times a day, 20 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 300 milligrams 2–3 times a day for a combination of type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and steatohepatitis.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): 400 milligrams 3 times a day for pronounced metabolic syndrome and reduced sensitivity to standard therapy.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 100 milligrams once a day in the morning. Indications: persons over 45 years of age with prediabetes, physical inactivity, and high risk of developing atherosclerosis. Course of administration — 30 days, break 30 days.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): Permissible from 14 years, with a body weight from 40 kg. 100 milligrams once a day. Data on use in the younger age group are absent.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Individual hypersensitivity. No data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and under 14 years have been registered in clinical studies.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): Rarely: dizziness, mild nausea, decreased blood pressure when the dosage exceeds 1.5 grams per day.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): Weight less than 60 kg — dose reduction to 75% of the standard. For weight more than 90 kg — dose increase to 125%.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): To prepare 100 grams of dry extract, 500 grams of ground plant material are required. The raw material is poured with purified water at a ratio of 1:10 and heated at a temperature of 70 degrees Celsius for 3 hours. Filtered, evaporated to a volume of 1:3, then dried in a vacuum drying oven at a temperature not exceeding 45 degrees Celsius to a dry powder state.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in hermetically sealed dark glass containers at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, in a place protected from light and moisture. Shelf life — 24 months. After opening — use within 30 days.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Indications (Tincture): Arterial hypertension, chronic gastritis, gastric ulcer disease, chronic bronchitis, irritable bowel syndrome, asthenoneurotic syndrome.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 25 drops of tincture in 20 milliliters of water 2 times a day, 20 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 35 drops 3 times a day for asthenoneurotic syndrome with concomitant digestive disorders and decreased appetite.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): 50 drops 3 times a day for severe forms of hypertension accompanied by pronounced stress and gastrointestinal spasms.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 15 drops once a day in the morning on an empty stomach. Suitable for persons with chronic stress, reduced adaptation to climate and weather changes, and a tendency to hypertension. Take for 20 days, then a 10-day break.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Not recommended for children under 14 years due to ethanol content. Safety for childhood has not been established.

Contraindications (Tincture): Alcohol dependence, liver diseases in the stage of decompensation, pregnancy, lactation. In childhood under 14 years — contraindicated.

Side Effects (Tincture): Dizziness, drowsiness, sensation of heat, decreased blood pressure are possible when the recommended dose is exceeded.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): For weight less than 60 kg, the dose should be reduced by 25%. For weight over 90 kg, an increase of 25% is permissible under the condition of normal alcohol tolerance.

Preparation method (Tincture): To prepare 100 milliliters of alcohol tincture, 20 grams of ground dry leaves and 80 milliliters of 40% ethyl alcohol are required. The plant material is poured with alcohol, placed in an airtight dark glass container, and infused for 10 days in a light-protected place at room temperature. After infusion, strain through gauze and store in a closed bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in a dark airtight container at a temperature of 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, away from sources of fire and heat. Shield from direct sunlight. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening — use within 60 days.

Oil Infusion — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Indications (Oil Infusion): Dry skin, eczema, atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, hyperkeratosis, skin itching, local inflammatory processes, signs of skin photoaging.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Externally apply a thin layer 2 times a day to clean dry skin.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): Apply 3–4 times a day for acute forms of dermatological diseases and itching, combine with light massage until completely absorbed.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Up to 6 applications per day on limited areas of the skin for pronounced inflammatory manifestations and peeling.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): Once a day in the evening after washing. Recommended for patients with dry and sensitive skin, persons exposed to aggressive sun exposure. Apply in courses of 30 days with a 15-day break.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): From 6 years. Apply once a day to small areas of dry or irritated skin. Under adult supervision. Used equally for girls and boys.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Individual intolerance, acute pustular skin lesions. During pregnancy and lactation — external use is permissible; no contraindications have been registered.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Extremely rarely — local skin irritation, erythema, allergic reaction in case of individual intolerance.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): Dose adjustment is not required, as the form is applied externally. When used in children — reduce the area of application.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): To prepare 100 milliliters of oil infusion, 20 grams of ground dry leaves and 80 milliliters of cold-pressed coconut oil are taken. Place in a glass jar, heat in a water bath at a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius for 3 hours, then infuse at room temperature for another 72 hours. After infusion, filter and pour into sterile glass bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in a dark bottle at a temperature not exceeding 22 degrees Celsius. Avoid exposure to light and heat. Shield from electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Cream — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Indications (Cream): Atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, chronic eczema, acne, hyperkeratosis, wrinkles, rosacea, skin photoaging, dry skin, skin itching, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Apply a thin layer 2 times a day to affected areas of the skin of the face and body after cleansing.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): Up to 3–4 times a day for pronounced skin inflammation, increased transepidermal water loss, itching, and peeling.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Up to 6 applications per day on local areas of the skin for pronounced signs of photoaging, hyperpigmentation, or eczematous rashes.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Once a day at night. Used in patients with sensitive skin living in conditions of high insolation, for the prevention of photoaging. Courses of 30 days with 15-day breaks.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): Permissible from 5 years. Once a day on a small area of skin, no more than 3 × 3 centimeters. Used for dryness, peeling, and irritation. Only under adult supervision.

Contraindications (Cream): Allergy to cream components, open wounds, purulent skin inflammations. No scientifically confirmed contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Cream): Rarely: allergic rashes, contact dermatitis, redness of the skin in case of individual sensitivity to components.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cream): Adjustment is not required. For children — limitation of the application area.

Preparation method (Cream): To prepare 100 grams of cream, the following are required: dry extract of Gynostemma pentaphyllum — 3 grams; cold-pressed coconut oil — 20 grams; shea butter — 20 grams; beeswax — 5 grams; chamomile hydrolate — 50 grams; plant-based emulsifier — 2 grams. The oil and aqueous phases are heated separately to 60 degrees Celsius, then combined with stirring, the extract is introduced, and cooled with continuous whipping to a creamy state. Transfer to sterile glass containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store at a temperature of 4 to 10 degrees Celsius in airtight dark glass containers. Shelf life — up to 3 months. After opening, use within 30 days. Do not allow freezing. Shield from EMI.

Serum — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Indications (Serum): Wrinkles, decreased skin elasticity, photoaging, hyperpigmentation, skin redness, dilated capillaries (rosacea), skin dehydration.

Standard Dosage (Serum): Apply 2 drops of serum to the face and neck 2 times a day after washing and before cream.

Enhanced Dosage (Serum): 4 drops of serum 2 times a day for pronounced photoaging, wrinkles, and skin dehydration.

Maximum Dosage (Serum): 6 drops up to 3 times a day for aggressive sun exposure, stress, and sudden deterioration of skin condition.

Preventive Dosage (Serum): 1–2 drops once a day before bedtime. Recommended for women from 35 years of age living in cities with high air pollution, with chronic fatigue, and sleep disorders. Courses of 2 months with a 1-month break.

Pediatric Dosage (Serum): Not used in childhood. Efficacy and safety have not been studied.

Contraindications (Serum): Allergic reactions, open skin damage. Not recommended during pregnancy — safety data for use in the form of serum are insufficient.

Side Effects (Serum): Contact dermatitis, skin irritation, burning sensation in case of individual intolerance to components.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Serum): Not required, as it is applied externally and dosed in drops.

Preparation method (Serum): To prepare 100 milliliters: aqueous-glycerin extract of Gynostemma — 5 grams; rose hydrolate — 40 grams; aloe vera juice — 20 grams; vegetable glycerin — 20 grams; cosmetic preservative based on benzoic and sorbic acids — 1 gram; purified water — up to 100 milliliters. Mix the components in a sterile glass container, stir until homogeneous, filter, and pour into dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Serum): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4–8 degrees Celsius. Avoid exposure to light. After opening, use within 20 days. Shield from electromagnetic influence.

Ointment — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Indications (Ointment): Atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, varicose veins, skin itching, neurodermatitis, hyperkeratosis, first-degree burns, frostbite, leg ulcers, insect bites.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply a thin layer to affected areas of the skin 2 times a day — morning and evening.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Up to 3 times a day for pronounced inflammation, itching, and peeling, especially on flexures, shins, and elbows.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Up to 5 applications per day on local areas no more than 10×10 centimeters for psoriatic plaques, varicose ulcers, and severe neurodermatitis.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Once a day at night for 14 days with a 7-day break. Used in patients with chronic dry skin, a tendency to eczema and dermatitis, and when working in cold and windy conditions.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): From 3 years, once a day on a small area no more than 5×5 centimeters. Do not use for more than 10 days in a row without medical supervision. Used equally in children of both sexes.

Contraindications (Ointment): Individual sensitivity, active purulent skin lesions. Not recommended for application to open wound surfaces. No data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Ointment): In isolated cases: contact dermatitis, allergic reaction, burning at the site of application when the dosage is exceeded.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ointment): Dose adjustment is not required. In children, the area of application should be limited.

Preparation method (Ointment): To prepare 100 grams of ointment: dry extract of Gynostemma pentaphyllum — 5 grams; cold-pressed coconut oil — 40 grams; beeswax — 10 grams; sea buckthorn oil — 10 grams; anhydrous lanolin — 20 grams; purified water — 15 grams. The oil phase (wax, oils, lanolin) is heated to 60 degrees Celsius. Separately, the extract is dissolved in water, brought to 40 degrees. Combine with stirring, cool until thickened. Transfer to sterile glass containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store at a temperature of 5 to 15 degrees Celsius in tightly closed dark glass containers. Avoid exposure to direct light and heat. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Studies of the toxicological profile of Gynostemma pentaphyllum have shown a high level of biosafety. In preclinical experiments on animals, no pronounced acute toxicity was detected. The median lethal dose (LD₅₀) of Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract upon oral administration to rats exceeds 15,000 mg/kg body weight, which indicates extremely low toxicity of the plant.

Chronic and subchronic administration of Gynostemma extracts also did not cause mutagenic, teratogenic, or carcinogenic effects. No disorders in blood parameters, liver or kidney function with long-term use at therapeutic doses have been registered. These data allow Gynostemma pentaphyllum to be classified as a functionally safe plant remedy.

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...

Pharmacodynamics — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

The pharmacodynamic action of Gynostemma pentaphyllum is due to the high content of unique triterpene saponins, called gypenosides, which are structurally similar to ginsenosides found in ginseng. These substances affect a wide range of physiological processes, exhibiting modulating and normalizing action at the level of systemic regulation. The main pharmacological targets include cell membranes, intracellular signaling pathways, the activity of oxidoreductase enzymes, the production of inflammatory mediators, and the expression of stress hormone receptors.

Gypenosides are able to affect the body's antioxidant defense systems, increasing the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. This leads to a decrease in the level of oxidative stress, especially in cells subjected to metabolic or inflammatory load. The antioxidant effect is manifested in both systemic circulation and at the level of individual target organs: liver, kidneys, blood vessels, and skin.

The immunomodulatory effect of Gynostemma is realized through stimulation of cellular immunity and normalization of the humoral arm. Increased activity of natural killer cells and macrophages, as well as increased production of immunoglobulins upon oral administration of extracts, has been shown. In addition, gypenosides suppress excessive expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6, which explains the pronounced anti-inflammatory properties at the level of mucous membranes and skin.

The nervous system can be a pharmacological target due to the adaptogenic and anxiolytic properties of saponins. These effects are realized through a decrease in the sensitivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis to stress effects, stabilization of cortisol levels, and normalization of the neurochemical balance in the structures of the limbic system. Such properties may be associated with effects on the expression of GABA receptors and the regulation of dopaminergic and serotonergic activity.

From the cardiovascular system, Gynostemma has a vasoregulatory and normotensive effect. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown the ability of active components to affect endothelial function, suppress platelet aggregation, and reduce the permeability of the vascular wall, which indicates angioprotective properties.

Gypenosides and flavonoids of the plant exhibit a pronounced metabolic effect: they activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), modulate glucose transport, and enhance lipolysis. This leads to the restoration of energy balance at the level of hepatocytes, adipocytes, and myocytes. At the level of the gastrointestinal tract, a mild antispasmodic and trophic effect has been proven, associated with local anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential, as well as regulation of motility.

At the skin level, Gynostemma acts as a local immunomodulator and antioxidant. With external use, it contributes to the restoration of the barrier function of the epidermis, reduction of erythema, decrease in the activity of proteolytic enzymes, and acceleration of regeneration.

The pharmacodynamic profile of Gynostemma confirms its systemic nature of action with a multi-level effect on the key regulatory axes of the body: neuroendocrine, immune, metabolic, and vascular.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9149325/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0944711313001383
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18425349/

Pharmacokinetics — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

The pharmacokinetics of Gynostemma pentaphyllum has not been studied sufficiently, however, generalized data on its main biologically active compounds — triterpene saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides — allow conclusions to be drawn about the proposed routes of absorption, distribution, and excretion depending on the dosage form.

With oral use (powder, dry extract, tincture), active components undergo primary contact with saliva and gastric juice enzymes. Saponins, despite their complex structure, are partially absorbed in the small intestine in unchanged form, and also undergo biotransformation under the action of intestinal microflora to aglycone forms, which have greater bioavailability. Flavonoids and polysaccharides undergo partial hydrolysis and are metabolized in enterocytes with subsequent conjugation in the liver.

Absorption occurs mainly in the proximal part of the small intestine, with the participation of active and passive transport. Substances entering the systemic circulation are distributed in tissues with high vascularization: liver, adrenal glands, kidneys, muscles. Partial accumulation is possible in lipophilic tissues, especially with prolonged use of oil forms.

With transdermal administration (ointment, cream, serum), absorption is limited by the epidermal barrier. Lipophilic components, such as oil extracts, penetrate the stratum corneum and can reach the basement membrane, where they exert local anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Pronounced systemic absorption with external use has not been noted, except in cases of prolonged use on large areas of the skin.

Metabolism of active substances occurs mainly in the liver with the participation of cytochrome P450 enzymes. Breakdown products undergo further conjugation (glucuronidation, sulfation) and become water-soluble. Some metabolites may have pharmacological activity.

Excretion is carried out primarily with bile and urine. To a lesser extent, pulmonary (for essential components) and dermal (with prolonged external use) routes are possible. Some compounds may circulate in the form of metabolites for a long time, especially with repeated use, which requires consideration when building long-term therapy regimens.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S037887411100473X
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19393325/
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11418-011-0522-x
https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

The pharmacological activity of Gynostemma pentaphyllum is due to the action of triterpene saponins (gypenosides), flavonoids, polysaccharides, and phytosterols. These compounds act on various signaling pathways, cellular receptors, and enzyme systems, providing a multi-level physiological effect. One of the key mechanisms of action is the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which plays a central role in the regulation of energy metabolism and glucose metabolism. AMPK activation is accompanied by inhibition of lipogenesis, stimulation of lipolysis, enhanced fatty acid oxidation, and increased insulin sensitivity. These processes are realized at the cellular level through phosphorylation of key regulatory metabolic proteins.

The antioxidant effect of gypenosides is associated with increased activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, as well as inhibition of the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This suppresses lipid peroxidation, stabilizes cell membranes, and reduces cellular inflammation. Additionally, flavonoids of Gynostemma block the activation of the transcription factor NF-κB, inhibiting the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. A decrease in the activity of NF-κB and COX-2 confirms the anti-inflammatory potential of the plant.

Gypenosides have an immunomodulatory effect through activation of macrophages, enhancement of phagocytosis, and stimulation of the production of Th1-type cytokines, including interferon-gamma. A modulating effect on the activity of NK cells and the expression of receptors on lymphocytes has also been described. At the same time, under conditions of excessive inflammation, suppression of the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines is observed, which indicates bimodal action — stimulating or inhibitory depending on the immune status.

The neurotropic properties of Gynostemma are associated with the regulation of dopaminergic and serotonergic activity, as well as interaction with GABA receptors. In vivo experimental studies have shown that gypenosides modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, reducing cortisol levels and normalizing reactivity to stress. The participation of neurosteroid pathways and anxiolytic activity due to an increase in the density of GABA-A receptors in limbic structures is assumed.

From the vascular wall, modulation of the activity of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) has been noted, accompanied by increased production of nitric oxide (NO), vasodilation, and improved microcirculation. Phytosterols and flavonoids are involved in reducing platelet aggregation and normalizing blood rheology through inhibition of thromboxane A2 and suppression of the expression of adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1) on the endothelium.

Mechanisms acting on the skin include suppression of metalloproteinase activity (MMP-1, MMP-9), normalization of type I collagen synthesis, and inhibition of melanogenesis through inhibition of tyrosinase. This makes Gynostemma relevant in dermatological and cosmetological practice.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Synergy — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Scientific publications confirm pronounced synergistic interactions of Gynostemma pentaphyllum with other biologically active substances of plant origin. In particular, the synergy between gypenosides of Gynostemma and ginsenosides of Panax ginseng is manifested in enhanced antioxidant and anti-stress activity. The combined activation of AMPK and enhanced suppression of the NF-κB cascade demonstrate a potentiating effect with respect to the regulation of cellular metabolism and inflammatory reactions.

The combination of Gynostemma with green tea (Camellia sinensis) leads to an additive and potentiating effect on antioxidant activity. Tea catechins and Gynostemma flavonoids activate complementary mechanisms of inhibition of oxidative stress, including reduction of malondialdehyde levels and activation of glutathione-dependent enzymes.

In combination with astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), an effect of modulation of the immune response with enhanced activity of macrophages and NK cells has been described. Polysaccharides of both plants affect different links of the immune cascade, forming a complementary mechanism of stimulation of innate immunity and protection of epithelial tissues.

Synergy with turmeric (Curcuma longa) has been confirmed experimentally in combined effects on the JAK/STAT pathway and the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators. Curcuminoids and gypenosides exhibit a cumulative effect on the suppression of IL-6 and TNF-α, and also inhibit the expression of COX-2, creating a systemic anti-inflammatory modulation.

A potentiating interaction of Gynostemma with cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris) has also been shown with respect to the regulation of metabolic processes and the adaptive response. Their combination activates energy pathways (including AMPK and SIRT1) and enhances resistance to hypoxic conditions. The effect is systemic in nature and covers the regulation of cellular respiration, ATP production, and antioxidant defense.

These data indicate the possibility of using Gynostemma in multicomponent compositions with a predictable and confirmed potentiating or additive effect at the level of key physiological systems.

References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25634540/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9149325/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0944711313001383
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11418-011-0522-x

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Gynostemma pentaphyllum

Gynostemma pentaphyllum is traditionally used in the folk medicine of East and Southeast Asia, primarily in China, Japan, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Korea, and northern India. The deepest ethnomedical tradition is associated with the southern Chinese provinces, especially Guangxi, Guizhou, and Yunnan, where the plant is known under the name "jiaogulan" (絞股藍) and is considered a symbol of longevity. Among the Miao people, as well as in the cultures of the Zhuang and Tujia, Gynostemma was used as an everyday drink and medicinal remedy for maintaining vital energy. The first written sources mentioning jiaogulan are considered to be pharmacopoeias of the late 14th — early 15th centuries, although archaeoethnobotanical studies indicate earlier use in food and medicine.

In Thai folk medicine (the "mora nuang" tradition), Gynostemma is used as a refreshing and cleansing plant. In northern Thailand and the mountains of Chiang Rai, the Akha people use fresh Gynostemma leaves in decoctions and infusions used for recovery after childbirth, during seasonal fatigue, and in ritual purification ceremonies. On the Lao Plateau, leaves and stems are added to smoking mixtures or burned as a cleansing agent during "eclipse of the body" — a condition associated with the loss of harmony between spirit and breath.

In Vietnamese and Korean cultures, Gynostemma is considered "southern ginseng" and is associated with longevity and mental clarity. It was traditionally consumed in the form of aqueous infusions, brews, and fresh juice. Some ethnic groups of the Korean Peninsula used fresh leaves in the form of skin bandages, and juice — in ritual purification ceremonies associated with the return of souls to the body.

In Japanese herbals of the 18th century, Gynostemma is mentioned as a plant with a "cold nature" and is used in multicomponent infusions. In the mountainous areas of Kyushu Island, it was added to the daily diet as a spicy green, believing in its ability to strengthen the body and balance emotions.

In non-medical practice, Gynostemma leaves were used as a ritual smoking plant among the peoples of Vietnam and northern Laos. In the villages of Hoa Binh, the Vietnamese burned dried Gynostemma stems in houses where a child had been sick for a long time, believing that the aroma of the plant purifies the air from evil spirits and strengthens the spirit of the owners.

Thus, Gynostemma pentaphyllum has a wide geography of traditional use, covering China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and India. It is considered a plant of strength, longevity, and energetic purity, possessing not only medicinal but also sacred status in the ritual practices of various ethnocultural traditions.