Jiaogulan is an herbal supplement that supports healthy circulation in horses, helping maintain soundness, mobility, and hoof quality. It works by supporting normal oxygenation and nutrient delivery to the hooves, muscles, joints, connective tissues, and lungs. Its antioxidant and adaptogenic properties support the horse’s natural response to exercise, environmental stressors, and daily demands.
Supports normal blood flow and nutrient delivery to the hooves
Helps maintain healthy joints, connective tissues, and overall soundness
Supports normal respiratory function during turnout, training, and exercise
Helps maintain metabolic health, antioxidant status, and a balanced stress response
My fat grumpy gelding is totally different now. This supplement has changed his attitude and brought back is health. He eats it well and even licks the bowl. Thank you!!
Elizabeth Morosani
Verified Customer
This product has helped my mare that is prone to Laminitis and who foundered in the past. Since we added this to her routine... she has remained sound.
Anna Matsunaga
Verified Customer
My gelding had a bout of winter laminitis last year... I started him on this supplement to improve hoof circulation during the cold winter months. This year he is happy and sound
Patricia Isaac
Verified Customer
One of my horses foundered in February of 2024 with seemingly no reason... Within a week and a half of being on this product he was moving almost 100% sound on no pain medication...
Amanda Oksen
Verified Customer
I have 2 horses on this... Definitely think it has helped the 19 YO that has cushings and EMS... His hooves are improving. It’s been a year since his last laminitis episode.
Evelyn Dinkins
Verified Customer
Spanish mustang had laminitis 3 times in past 3 years. This year, balanced diet with AminoTrace and added Jiaogulan - no laminitis.
Paul Youngstrom
Verified Customer
Jiaogulan has helped my horses breathing so much. No more coughing and he’s much brighter and happy. Very good product.
Leroy Fredrick Stark
Verified Customer
I only used the Jiaogulan for a few months in the winter when my horse had sore feet due to the cold.... her feet were growing a little faster and the laminae connection was growing in tighter as well.
Lauren Doucette
Verified Customer
... I decided to add the Jiaogulan product which helps with respiratory health. Fast forward to today, Ringo is doing amazing. He only coughs a bit at start of work out and breaths better while working.
Kirby Lopaschuk
Verified Customer
This Chinese herb is great for laminitic horses especially as it increases circulation in the hoof. Excellent product. Good for ALL horses as well.
Toni Semple
Verified Customer
Jiaogulan has improved my horses' hoof quality and even helped grow their tiny forelocks! Those are the visible signs, but the internal benefits of improved circulation are the most important.
Jean Sinclair
Verified Customer
I began using this at the advice of Dr Kealon, a specialist in DSLD. My horse has done well on it and the product is packaged to deliver a lot of doses, so a good value for the price.
Susana Della Maddalena
Verified Customer
My friend and I both use per recommendation of Dr Kellon. We have gotten excellent results both for laminitis and her pony finally started to sweat after a year of using.
Cathy Shiner
Verified Customer
Bought this product for my horse that has respiratory problems; runny nose and hard time breathing. This product has helped for both problems. Will continue to buy it.
Mary Bogdanski
Verified Customer
I got this for my mare that came up laminitic this year and so far along with keeping her off grass and feeding low sugar hay it has helped reduce her symptoms very quickly.
Bailey Nickel
Verified Customer
I had a horse that was coughing due to round bale dust. I changed to squares and started feeding Mad Barn Spirulina and Jiaogulan. I have not heard her cough in the 2 months
Ashley Woodward
Verified Customer
The combination of the above product and the Spirulina were very effective in controlling my Morgan mare's respiratory issues. I will definitely recommend it to my equine friends.
Maureen Gill
Verified Customer
We stand behind our products to provide the best nutrition for your horse. No fillers, just research-backed ingredients. If your horse doesn't love this product, our Customer Happiness team is here to help or give you a refund guaranteed.
Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum)
Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) is an herbal ingredient used to support circulatory, respiratory, and metabolic function. It provides saponins (gypenosides) with antioxidant and adaptogenic properties that help maintain endothelial function and normal redox balance. By supporting healthy blood flow, it helps with nutrient delivery and oxygen exchange and contributes to normal hoof, joint, and cardiovascular function.
Jiaogulan is used to help maintain normal insulin function and glycemic control, and to support healthy vascular tone. Evidence from experimental models indicates that gypenosides can support nitric-oxide–mediated pathways and help modulate inflammatory signaling, aligning with goals to maintain metabolic efficiency and tissue comfort.
Because it supports vascular tone, oxidative balance, and cellular energy regulation, Jiaogulan is included in programs aimed at maintaining overall metabolic health and post-exercise recovery. Equine-specific data remain limited; use as directed within a balanced diet and consult a veterinarian or nutritionist when formulating rations.
Consult with nutritionist or veterinarian prior to use. Top dress on feed or daily ration. For best effects, split the daily dose into two equal feedings.
Body Weight
Scoops
Dose
< 200 kg
1 scoop
5 g
200 – 500 kg
2 scoops
10 g
> 500 kg
3 scoops
15 g
1 scoop = 9 cc = 5 grams
Body Weight
Scoops
Dose
< 440 lb
1 scoop
5 g
440 – 1100 lb
2 scoops
10 g
> 1100 lb
3 scoops
15 g
1 scoop = 9 cc = 5 grams
Warning / Caution:
A scale should be used with all individual ingredients to ensure accurate dosing.
For equine use only. Not for use in horses intended for food. Not for use in pregnant or lactating mares. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use in animals with bleeding disorders.
Active Ingredients: Per gram serving
Ingredient
Per 10 g
Jiaogulan
10
g
Recommended Use: Supports healthy circulation, respiration and joints.
Packaged by: Mad Barn Inc., Petersburg, ON, N0B 2H0, Canada.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by Health Canada or the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
1 kg (2.2 lb): SKU 628055182146
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Metric (kg)
Imperial (lb)
kg
grams
* Recommended serving size of 2 grams per 100 kg (220 lb) of body weight
Servings
Cost Per Day
Disclaimer: Recommended feeding rate varies depending on your horse's condition and current diet. Consult with a nutritionist to determine the appropriate inclusion rate for your horse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used to support circulation, respiratory function, metabolic health, and overall vitality. In horses, it is commonly fed to help maintain normal blood flow to the hooves, promote joint comfort, support breathing, and assist in post-exercise care and resistance to stress.
Horses that may benefit from Jiaogulan include those with circulatory challenges, hoof quality concerns, joint stiffness, respiratory sensitivities, or metabolic concerns. It is often fed to senior horses, performance horses, and those with compromised circulation or comfort issues to support overall wellness.
Jiaogulan supports healthy circulation, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues, including the hooves and joints. By promoting normal blood flow, Jiaogulan may help maintain hoof integrity and joint comfort. Its adaptogenic properties also contribute to resistance to stress, which can further benefit overall musculoskeletal health. For best results, it should be fed as part of a balanced diet that meets your horse’s vitamin, mineral and amino acid requirements.
Jiaogulan is known for its circulatory and adaptogenic properties, which may help support normal oxygen delivery and lung function. Horses with respiratory sensitivities or those in intense training may benefit from its ability to help maintain healthy breathing and stamina. It is best used alongside good management practices such as maximizing turnout, reducing dust exposure, and improving ventilation.
Jiaogulan and Spirulina have synergistic effects and have been studied for use together to support respiratory health in horses. Jiaogulan supports circulation, metabolic balance, and respiratory function, while Spirulina provides immune, antioxidant, and histamine-modulating support. When fed together, they may help horses with seasonal allergies, metabolic concerns, or circulatory challenges. Both can be fed long-term as part of a balanced nutrition program.
A unqiue feature of Jiaogulan is that it often shows a rapid effect. Many horses display an increase in gum and tongue colour within 20–30 minutes of dosing, which indicates improved circulation. Additional benefits for hoof comfort, mobility, or respiratory function may develop gradually over several days to weeks of consistent supplementation.
Most horses readily accept Jiaogulan, though it has a slightly bitter, herbal taste. For picky eaters, it can be mixed with soaked forage pellets, beet pulp, or a mash. For best absorption, many owners prepare Jiaogulan as a paste with water or oil and syringe it orally 20 minutes before a meal.
The recommended feeding rate for Jiaogulan is 10 g per day for a 500 kg (1,100 lb) horse, ideally split into two servings of 5 g each. Because it is an adaptogen, Jiaogulan is usually most effective when divided into two feedings. For best absorption, it can be mixed into a paste and syringed orally about 20 minutes before a meal. When top-dressed on grain or mixed into feed, slightly higher amounts may be needed. The dosage can be adjusted gradually based on gum/tongue colour and your horse’s individual response. Consult with a nutritionist for personalized feeding recommendations.
Yes. Jiaogulan can be safely combined with other Mad Barn products such as Spirulina, Omneity, or AminoTrace+. These products complement each other as part of a balanced diet that meets your horse’s vitamin and mineral requirements.
Yes. Jiaogulan can be mixed into soaked feeds or mashes for your horse without affecting the efficacy of the product. However, for the best absorption and faster results, it is often recommended to prepare it as a paste and syringe it orally about 20 minutes before feeding.
Jiaogulan is safe for long-term, daily use. For best results, it should be fed consistently, as regular supplementation helps maintain its circulatory and adaptogenic support. Missing an occasional dose will not harm your horse, but regular daily use provides the most reliable benefits.
Yes. Jiaogulan comes with a 9 cc scoop, which holds approximately 5 g of powder. The typical feeding rate for a 500 kg (1,100 lb) horse is two scoops per day, split into two feedings. For the most accurate dosing, we recommend using a scale to measure the powder.
Jiaogulan has a guaranteed shelf life of two years from the date of manufacture. Store sealed in a cool, dry place away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
Jiaogulan is generally well tolerated, and adverse effects are rare. Because research is limited, it should not be fed to pregnant or lactating mares. It may be less effective when fed with NSAIDs such as phenylbutazone or Banamine®, so we recommend avoiding this combination if possible. Always introduce gradually, and consult your veterinarian if your horse is on prescription medications or has specific health concerns.
Jiaogulan has not been studied in broodmares, and there is not enough research to confirm its safety during pregnancy or lactation. For this reason, it is not recommended for use in pregnant or lactating mares.
Yes. Jiaogulan can be safely used in horses with Cushing’s (PPID), insulin resistance (IR), or other metabolic conditions. It is commonly fed to support circulation, hoof health, and overall vitality. As with any supplement, it should be introduced gradually and as part of a balanced nutrition program. Always consult with your veterinarian when adding new supplements for metabolic horses.
Jiaogulan may be used to support circulation and hoof comfort in horses with a history of laminitis. However, it is not recommended during the acute phase of laminitis, when the condition is actively progressing and requires immediate veterinary treatment. In these cases, follow your veterinarian’s guidance for stabilization and management before considering supplements like Jiaogulan.
Yes. Jiaogulan is competition-legal and contains no prohibited substances. Regulations may change, so confirm with your sport’s governing body before competition.
Jiaogulan is generally safe to use with pergolide (Prascend®) and many other common medications. However, it may be less effective when combined with NSAIDs such as phenylbutazone (Bute®), flunixin meglumine (Banamine®), or firocoxib (Previcox®/Equioxx®). Consult your veterinarian before putting your horse on new supplements, especially if they are on prescription medication.
Ask A Question
Have a question about this product? Ask below and our nutritionists will be happy to assist.
“Jiaogulan is an adaptogen — an herb that supports a balanced stress response in horses. It also helps maintain normal circulation by contributing to nitric oxide production, making it useful for joint, tendon, and hoof health.”
Mad Barn’s Jiaogulan powder (Gynostemma pentaphyllum, “J-Herb”) is an herbal supplement for horses and ponies that supports healthy circulation, hoof comfort, respiratory function, joint comfort, connective tissue health, and exercise performance.
The Jiaogulan vine has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is valued for supporting vitality and physical performance.
Modern research shows that Jiaogulan contains bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties that help maintain cellular health and support the body’s normal response to oxidative stress.
Jiaogulan is commonly used in feeding programs for metabolically managed horses that need support for hoof comfort and soundness, especially during cold weather. By supporting normal blood flow in the hoof, Jiaogulan helps maintain comfort when horses experience occasional hoof tenderness.
It is also used for performance horses that need support for comfortable breathing, exercise capacity, mobility, and a normal return to baseline after work.
Different disciplines place different demands on the horse, but all exercise increases nutrient utilization, oxidative stress, and the need for tissue repair. Jiaogulan supports physiological pathways involved in stamina, athletic output, and post-exercise recovery.
Jiaogulan’s primary mechanism is its effect on nitric oxide activity. It contains naturally occurring plant compounds called gypenosides, which support nitric oxide release from the vascular endothelium — the cells lining the horse’s blood vessels.
Nitric oxide helps relax smooth muscle in the blood vessel wall, supporting normal blood vessel tone and circulatory function. These effects contribute to normal tissue oxygenation and nutrient delivery throughout the horse’s body.
Why Use Jiaogulan?
Nitric Oxide & Blood Flow
Jiaogulan contains gypenosides, plant compounds that support the release of nitric oxide from the vascular endothelium — the cells lining the horse’s blood vessels.
Nitric oxide helps relax the smooth muscle in blood vessel walls, supporting normal vessel tone and healthy blood flow to the hooves, lungs, muscles, and connective tissues.
Nitric oxide helps counterbalance endothelin-1, a potent vasoconstrictor, supporting the normal balance between blood vessel relaxation and constriction that controls blood supply to tissues.
Hoof Comfort & Soundness
Metabolically managed horses can be more sensitive to changes in hoof perfusion, particularly in cold weather when blood flow to the lower limb is naturally reduced.
Jiaogulan supports nitric oxide activity, helping maintain normal vessel tone and circulation through the hoof’s vascular tissues, including the corium and laminae.
By supporting hoof perfusion, oxygen delivery, and antioxidant defenses, Jiaogulan helps maintain comfort and soundness when inflammatory and circulatory stressors are present.
Respiratory Function & Oxygen Exchange
Normal breathing depends on both airflow through the airways and blood flow through the lung’s capillary network, where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged.
Jiaogulan supports nitric oxide activity involved in maintaining relaxed, open airways and healthy pulmonary blood flow during turnout, training, and exercise.
It is often paired with Spirulina when the goal is broader support for respiratory comfort, oxygen uptake, and normal breathing during exercise.
Tendon & Ligament Support
Tendons and ligaments are collagen-rich tissues that adapt to repeated loading, stretching, and mechanical stress during work, turnout, and conditioning.
Nitric oxide helps regulate collagen turnover, cellular repair signals, and the remodeling process that maintains connective tissue strength.
By supporting normal nitric oxide activity, Jiaogulan helps maintain tendon, ligament, and suspensory strength and function in working horses.
Joint Comfort & Mobility
Nitric oxide helps regulate normal inflammatory signaling and cellular responses to mechanical stress in cartilage, synovial tissue, and surrounding soft tissues.
Jiaogulan supports balanced nitric oxide activity and antioxidant defenses, helping maintain joint comfort, stride quality, and mobility.
Exercise Performance & Conditioning
During bouts of exertion, working muscles require increased blood flow to meet higher demands for oxygen, glucose, fatty acids, and electrolyte exchange.
Nitric oxide helps regulate blood vessel dilation in active tissues, supporting muscle perfusion, heat dissipation, and clearance of metabolic byproducts.
Jiaogulan supports this pathway to help horses maintain athletic output, recover normally after work, and stay conditioned for consistent training.
Antioxidant Defenses
Jiaogulan contains gypenosides, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds that support antioxidant defenses and normal cellular signaling.
Reactive oxygen species, especially superoxide, can react with nitric oxide and convert it into peroxynitrite, reducing nitric oxide availability and impairing normal endothelial signaling.
By supporting antioxidant status, Jiaogulan’s bioactive compounds help preserve nitric oxide activity, contributing to the vascular effects that support hooves, lungs, and working tissues.
Adaptogenic Support
Adaptogens are herbs that help the body maintain normal function during physical and environmental stressors.
Jiaogulan has been studied for its role in stress response, with research suggesting effects on perceived stress, antioxidant defenses, neurotransmitter balance, and stress-response signaling.
In horses, Jiaogulan helps maintain a balanced stress response so the body can stay regulated under changing demands.
Mad Barn’s bulk Jiaogulan contains pure Gynostemma pentaphyllum leaf powder with no added fillers, flavors, or carriers. It is a concentrated top-dress powder that can be added to the daily ration for horses needing advanced support for circulation, respiratory function, soundness, and performance.
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English
Jiaogulan 
NOCR 
Circulatory Function
Metabolic Health
Glucose Metabolism
Respiratory Function
Hoof Health
Joint Health
Tendon & Ligament Support
Antioxidant Status
Exercise Performance
Balanced Stress Response
