Bio Jiaogulan Tee (Bioherby)

Overview

Bioherby is a Netherlands-based company founded in 2014 that specializes in herbal tea production and trade. Its main focus is the cultivation, processing, and distribution of organically certified Jiaogulan tea. The company distributes throughout the European Union via its online shop and selected partners.

Composition and Botanical Information

The tea consists of 100% dried leaves of Gynostemma pentaphyllum (family Cucurbitaceae). The plant is native to mountainous areas of southern China, northern Vietnam, and northern Thailand. It is traditionally used in Asian herbal medicine and is known for containing gypenosides, saponin compounds structurally related to ginsenosides in ginseng.

Origin and Production

Bioherby sources its Jiaogulan from organic farms in northern Thailand, where altitude and climate favor natural cultivation. According to the manufacturer, the production process follows three key principles:

1. Hand-harvesting of mature leaves
2. Shade or low-temperature drying to preserve natural compounds
3. Minimal processing, without blending, roasting, or added flavorings

The result is a single-ingredient herbal tea suitable for use as a loose infusion.

Certification and Quality Control

Bio Jiaogulan Tee is certified by a Thai organic control body under the code TH-BIO-038, confirming compliance with recognized organic agriculture standards. The manufacturer states that each batch is laboratory-tested for:

• Pesticide and heavy-metal residues
• Microbiological safety
• Traceability via batch numbers

The packaging lists the certification and origin to ensure transparency and product integrity.

Sensory Profile and Preparation

Jiaogulan tea has a mildly sweet, slightly bitter, and herbaceous flavor, producing a light-gold infusion. The tea is naturally caffeine-free. The producer recommends steeping at 80–90°C for several minutes, with the option to re-infuse the same leaves multiple times.

Health and Regulatory Context

Bioherby describes its product as a food item, not a medicinal preparation. Although Gynostemma pentaphyllum has been studied for potential antioxidant and adaptogenic effects, the company does not claim any therapeutic benefits. All statements comply with European Union food and labeling regulations concerning health claims (Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006).

Packaging and Distribution

The tea is sold in resealable kraft pouches (commonly 50 g or 100 g). It is distributed through the official website and other authorized online retailers within the EU. The product packaging advises storage in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.