Gypenoside refers to a class of saponins found in Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan), a traditional medicinal herb used in East Asia. While Gypenosides have a long history of general use for health and longevity, their application in Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is supported primarily by recent preclinical scientific studies, rather than traditional usage specifically for PD.

Experimental research, mostly in cellular and animal models, suggests that Gypenosides may exert neuroprotective effects relevant to PD. These effects are thought to be mediated by antioxidant activity, inhibition of neuroinflammation, reduction of oxidative stress, and modulation of mitochondrial function. For example, several studies have demonstrated that Gypenosides can protect dopaminergic neurons in rodent models of PD induced by neurotoxins such as MPTP or 6-OHDA. Key findings include reductions in neuronal cell death, restoration of dopamine levels, and attenuation of motor deficits. Mechanistically, Gypenosides are reported to modulate signaling pathways such as Nrf2/ARE, and to inhibit apoptosis in neuronal cells.

However, there is a lack of robust clinical evidence: no well-controlled human trials have been published as of 2024. Therefore, while preclinical data provide a rationale for further investigation, the current evidence supporting Gypenoside use for PD in humans is limited and preliminary.