Gynostemma

Gynostemma pentaphyllum, commonly called “jiao gu lan” or “southern ginseng,” is a climbing vine native to East Asia.

• Its leaves are rich in unique saponins called gypenosides.
• It is primarily used as a dietary supplement.
• It is aimed at supporting metabolic health, antioxidant defenses, and overall vitality.

Gypenosides are dammarane‑type triterpenoid saponins.

• A representative compound, Gypenoside A, has the molecular formula C₄₈H₈₀O₁₈.
• Its IUPAC name is (2R,3R,24R)-3‑hydroxy‑24‑(4‑hydroxy‑3‑methoxy‑phenyl)‑dammar-12‑ene‑3‑O‑β‑D‑glucopyranosyl‑(1→2)-β‑D‑glucopyranoside.
• These molecules possess a tetracyclic dammarane skeleton (four fused rings) with multiple hydroxyl groups and a glycosidic chain.
• This confers amphiphilic properties, enabling interaction with cell‑membrane receptors and the blood‑brain barrier.
• The high‑order glycosides (e.g., gypenoside II, III) differ in sugar composition (glucose, rhamnose, xylose).
• Their amphiphilic nature underlies both membrane‑stabilizing and signaling‑modulatory effects.

Gynostemma is cultivated primarily in China (Guangxi, Guangdong, Yunnan) and Vietnam.

• The leaves are harvested at 2–3 months of growth for maximal gypenoside content.
• Commercial extracts are obtained via:
  • 70 % ethanol‑water extraction
  • Followed by liquid‑chromatography purification to achieve the target ≥30 % gypenoside standardization.
• Some manufacturers use super‑critical CO₂ extraction to preserve heat‑labile compounds.
• Quality considerations include:
  • Verification of gypenoside content by HPLC‑UV.
  • Testing for heavy metals, pesticide residues, and microbial contamination.
  • Certification of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Look for:
  • Third‑party testing
  • Clear labeling of extraction method, standardization level, and batch‑specific certificates of analysis.