Evidence supporting the use of: Jiaogulan
For the body system: Parasympathetic Nervous System

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) has a long history of traditional use in Chinese and Southeast Asian medicine, where it is often referred to as the "herb of immortality." In traditional systems, it is typically used as an adaptogen, believed to help the body manage stress and restore balance, which indirectly supports the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) by promoting relaxation and homeostasis. The PNS is responsible for 'rest and digest' activities in the body, and herbs thought to reduce stress or promote calm are often assumed to enhance parasympathetic activity.

Scientific studies on jiaogulan's effects specifically on the PNS are limited. Some animal research and small human studies suggest that jiaogulan may help reduce stress and improve markers of autonomic balance, potentially favoring parasympathetic activity, but these findings are preliminary and not widely replicated. Most of the evidence for jiaogulan's support of the PNS is rooted in its traditional use as a calming and adaptogenic herb rather than robust scientific validation.

Therefore, while there is a traditional basis for using jiaogulan to support the parasympathetic nervous system, high-quality clinical evidence is still lacking, and the connection remains largely theoretical or anecdotal at this time.

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