Gynostemma

[Thomas C. Andres]

<italic><fontfamily><param>Times</param><bigger>Gynostemma
pentaphyllum</bigger></fontfamily></italic><fontfamily><param>Times</param><=
bigger>
(Thunb.) Makino</bigger></fontfamily>, also known by the common name
<fontfamily><param>Times</param><bigger>Lo han kuo (Lohanguo or
</bigger></fontfamily>Jiao-gu-lan), is a
<fontfamily><param>Times</param><bigger>perennial vine
</bigger></fontfamily>in the Cucurbitaceae. It is native
to<fontfamily><param>Times</param><bigger> southern and eastern
Asia</bigger></fontfamily> and is valued there for its
<fontfamily><param>Times</param><bigger>high glucose and medicinal
properties. A tea is made from it which is purportedly anti-pyretic,
anti cough, and an expectorant. Long time use is said to "improve liver
and strengthen spleen, stimulate spirit and promote flow of saliva", at
least that's what is says on the box I purchased in New York City's
Chinatown.


</bigger></fontfamily>>

>Date:    Tue, 12 Aug 1997 14:45:09 +0000

>From:    Judi duCellier <<peojd at SUN.ARS-GRIN.GOV>

>Subject: Gynostemma

>

>Can anyone tell me what "King Solomon's Seed" is?

>

>Also, does anyone have any scientific information on the following?

>I found some information on the WWW, but would like to find a

>description of the plant and/or its chemical constituents.

>AMACHAZURA (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) containing Amachazuru saponins

>

>Judith L. duCellier

>USDA:ARS:BA:PSI:NGRL:PEO

>Bldg. 003, Rm. 400, BARC-West

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>

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>peojd at ars-grin.gov