Jiao gu lan

This herb native to the mountainous areas of southern China, Japan and South East Asia and is receiving a lot of recognition for its use as an anti-aging tonic and adaptogen. The tasty tea made from the stems and leaves of this herbaceous perennial vine have 4 times more ginseng-like saponins than either American or Asian Ginseng. It has been used in Chinese Medicine to delay the aging process and increase energy. Research in Japan shows that the herb has a powerful effect on numerous body systems. It has been used in Chinese medicine to maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, enhance circulation, increase energy without being over-stimulating, improve focus and memory, support a strong immune system and can increase stamina and endurance for athletes. This vigorous perennial vine is hardy to 10 degrees and can climb 20 to 30 feet in a season. Quite easy to grow and will produce a large crop to harvest for tea. This is a plant quickly gaining in popularity which often leads to severe over-harvesting, all the more reason to cultivate it in our home herb gardens. Jiao gu lan prefers a moist, partly shaded location and responds well to a fertile garden soil. Perennial Hardy to zone 8.