Part 3: Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan) and Equine Respiratory Health
Recent scientific research has begun to validate some of jiaogulan’s traditional uses, particularly in the area of respiratory health. A notable study by Huang et al. (2022) investigated the anti-inflammatory properties of Jiaogulan in the context of asthma. In this experiment, mice were induced to develop asthma-like symptoms, mimicking the airway inflammation seen in human and equine asthma. The researchers then administered a Jiaogulan extract known as gypenoside to these asthmatic mice. After treatment, the lung cells of the mice were analyzed for chemical markers associated with inflammation, such as cytokines and other signaling molecules. The results showed that gypenoside significantly reduced these markers, indicating a strong anti-inflammatory effect. This suggests that Jiaogulan may help alleviate airway inflammation, a key factor in asthma.
In a separate experiment, Circosta et al. (2005) explored Jiaogulan’s impact on airway constriction and airflow. Using anaesthetized guinea pigs, the researchers measured lung function before and after administering Jiaogulan. They found that Jiaogulan not only increased airflow in the lungs but also reduced airway constriction caused by histamines—a compound that triggers allergic reactions and bronchoconstriction. These findings support the idea that Jiaogulan can help relax the airways and improve breathing, which is particularly beneficial for conditions like asthma and allergies.
Additionally, Kellon (2006) reported three case studies involving horses (equines) with respiratory issues. In these cases, Jiaogulan was used as a supplement to support respiratory health, and the outcomes were positive, with improvements in breathing and overall lung function observed.
Summary and Implications
The combined results from these studies suggest that Jiaogulan may offer multiple benefits for respiratory health:
- Reduces airway inflammation (as shown in mice)
- Improves airflow and reduces airway constriction (as shown in guinea pigs)
- Shows promise in practical applications for animal respiratory health (as seen in horses)
References:
Circosta, Clara, et al. "Bronchodilatory effects of the aqueous extract of Gynostemma pentaphyllum and gypenosides III and VIII in anaesthetized guinea-pigs." Journal of pharmacy and pharmacology 57.8 (2005): 1053-1057.
Huang, Wen-Chung, et al. "Gypenoside A from Gynostemma pentaphyllum attenuates airway inflammation and Th2 cell activities in a murine asthma model." International Journal of Molecular Sciences 23.14 (2022): 7699.
Kellon, Eleanor M., and Equine Nutritional Solutions. "Use of the Herb Gynostemma Pentaphyllum and the Blue-green Algae Spirulina Platensis in Horses." Proceedings of the 3rd European Equine Nutrition & Health Congress. 2006.