Gambir Vine Chinese Herb

Gambir Vine (Gou Teng): A Calming Herb for the Liver, Wind, and Nervous System

Introduction

Gambir Vine, known as Gou Teng (钩藤) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is the dried hook-bearing stems of Uncaria rhynchophylla, a climbing vine found in the tropical regions of China and Southeast Asia. It is renowned for its ability to calm the liver, extinguish internal wind, and ease spasms or tremors. Gou Teng is slightly sweet and cool in nature, entering the Liver and Pericardium meridians.

What Is Gambir Vine?

Gou Teng means “hook vine,” named after its small, curved hooks that help it climb surrounding plants. The vine is harvested when the hooks are mature and then dried for medicinal use. In TCM, it is valued for relieving internal wind — a condition that can manifest as dizziness, headaches, convulsions, or high blood pressure. Its cooling nature makes it ideal for clearing heat from the Liver and promoting relaxation throughout the body.

Health Benefits of Gambir Vine

Calms the Liver and Extinguishes Wind
Gou Teng is a primary herb for pacifying an overactive Liver, helping to reduce tremors, muscle spasms, or dizziness caused by internal wind or rising Liver yang.

Supports Healthy Blood Pressure
By easing Liver heat and tension, Gou Teng helps promote smoother blood flow and supports normal blood pressure levels, making it beneficial for individuals prone to hypertension or stress-related symptoms.

Relieves Headaches and Dizziness
Its gentle cooling and sedative effects make it effective for headaches, vertigo, and irritability associated with Liver fire or wind.

Soothes the Nervous System
Modern research shows that Gou Teng’s alkaloids may have neuroprotective and calming effects, supporting relaxation and sleep while protecting the brain from oxidative stress.

Aids in Managing Tremors and Seizures
Traditionally, Gou Teng has been used in formulas for childhood convulsions and adult neurological disorders. It helps settle the mind and restore balance to the body’s energy flow.

How to Use Gambir Vine

In Herbal Preparations
Gou Teng is typically decocted (boiled in water) for 10–20 minutes, added toward the end of the brewing process to preserve its active compounds. It is often used alongside herbs like Tian Ma (Gastrodia) or Shi Jue Ming (Abalone Shell) to calm wind and clear heat.

In Daily Teas or Tonic Blends
Mild Gou Teng tea can be prepared by simmering a few grams of the dried vine for 10 minutes. It’s a soothing beverage for easing tension or supporting calm focus.

In TCM Formulas
Gou Teng appears in classic formulas such as Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin, used to calm the Liver, extinguish wind, and lower blood pressure. It’s often combined with herbs like Tian Ma, Chuan Niu Xi, and Yi Mu Cao for comprehensive support.

Where to Buy Gambir Vine

You can find Gou Teng at:

• Chinese herbal shops and TCM pharmacies
• Asian herbal markets (often labeled as Uncaria rhynchophylla or Gou Teng)
• Online retailers such as iHerb, Amazon, or ChineseHerbsDirect

Look for:

• Dried stems with small hooked spurs
• Clean, well-dried material with no mold or odor
• GMP-certified or lab-tested sources for purity and safety

Are There Any Side Effects?

Gou Teng is generally safe and well-tolerated, especially when used as part of a balanced formula. However, it should not be used in cases of extreme coldness or weakness, as it is cooling in nature. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a TCM practitioner before use.

Conclusion

Gambir Vine (Gou Teng) is a calming, Liver-soothing herb that helps harmonize the body by clearing heat, relaxing the nervous system, and pacifying internal wind. Whether taken as a tea or in traditional formulas, it supports relaxation, balanced energy, and neurological health — a time-honored ally in TCM’s approach to restoring inner tranquility.

FAQs

Can I drink Gou Teng tea every day?
Yes, a light tea can be enjoyed daily to promote calm and balance, though prolonged use should be guided by a practitioner.

Does Gou Teng help with headaches or dizziness?
Yes. It’s one of the most effective TCM herbs for dizziness, vertigo, and headaches caused by Liver heat or wind.

Is Gou Teng good for high blood pressure?
Yes. Its Liver-calming and vessel-relaxing effects make it supportive for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels naturally.