Jiaogulan, also known as Gynostemma Pentaphyllum, is an excellent caffeine-free alternative to regular tea. The tea liquor and texture resembles that of a light oolong, while the taste offers a wonderful complexity of seaweed and liquorice wood. The after taste is sweet with hints of apple.

Jiaogulan is a plant native to China, Japan, and parts of Southeast Asia. It’s often referred to as “Southern Ginseng,” it has been widely used in traditional medicine as an adaptogenic herb, akin to ginseng. Because it’s more affordable then ginseng it’s also known as a ‘poor man’s ginseng’. The plant is recognized for its potential health benefits, such as enhancing stamina, reducing fatigue, and improving cardiovascular health. Moreover, it has been linked with boosting the immune system, regulating blood pressure, and balancing cholesterol levels.

Origin: Qinba (1200m), Shaanxi

How to Steep

Western method
Infuse 3 grams of Jiaogulan herbal tea with 500 ml water at a temperature of 100ºC and steep for 1 minutes. For a second steep increase the steeping time to 1.5 minutes

Traditional method
Infuse 5 grams of Jiaogulan tea with 100ml water at 100ºC and steep for 20 seconds. Increase the steeping time by 5 seconds for every next steep.

Cold-brewing
For cold-brewing you may use a bottle, jug, teapot or any brewing vessel that has a lid. Use 5 grams of Jiaogulan per 500ml of cold water. Cover the brewing vessel with a lid, and store in the fridge for 6-8 hours.