Gospel Herb

This genus occurs in S and E Asia, and consists of two species that climb by means of tendrils. Gynostemma pentaphyllum was first described in traditional Chinese medicine during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) as a folk remedy for hepatitis, bronchitis, and peptic ulcers. A better understanding of its properties was gained in the 1980s, as part of a Japanese research program into herbs with possible anti-cancer effects. It was rated among the ten most important tonic herbs at the 1991 International Conference on Traditional Medicine, in Beijing, China.

Annual or short-lived perennial climber with palmate leaves, divided into 3-7 toothed leaflets, terminal leaflets to 8cm (3in) long. Small yellow-green, star-shaped flowers are produced in summer, in panicles to 15cm (6in) long, followed by smooth, dark green fruits, to 8cm (3in) across, marked with white lines.

Common Name:	Gospel Herb
Other Names:	Sweet Tea Vine
Botanical Name:	Gynostemma pentaphyllum
Genus:	Gynostemma
Family:	Cucurbitaceae
Native Location:	Japan
Cultivation:	Moist, well-drained soil in partial shade.
Propagation:	By seed sown in spring, soaked for 24 hours before sowing.
Harvest:	Plants are cut in summer and dried for use in capsules, decoctions, extracts, tablets, and teabags.
Height:	8m (25ft)
Width:	Indefinite
Hardiness:	Z8
Parts Used:	Whole plant.
Properties:	A tonic herb that improves the circulation, stimulates liver function, strengthens the immune and nervous systems, and reduces blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It also has sedative effects, relaxing spasms and lowering blood pressure.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for nervous tension and exhaustion, peptic ulcer, asthma, bronchitis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
Economic Uses:	Used in anti-aging tonics and cosmetics.
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pp 229-230