Characterisation of Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Saponins Affecting Cholesterol Homeostasis

G. pentaphyllum (Thun.) Makino (Cucurbitaceae) is a perennial climbing herb, mainly found in southern tropical areas of Asia. Traditional use of the herb dates back 500 years and includes treatment for chronic tracheitis, bronchitis, infectious hepatitis, pyelitis and gastroenteritis. Its numerous medicinal applications include anti-inflammatory, anti-toxic, anti-tussive and expectoratory actions. The plant is not endemic to Australia and, as far as the author knows, has never been cultivated in this region. Therefore, cultivation of G. pentaphyllum was undertaken in Sydney, Australia in order assess its growth in a new environment and to provide local material for further chemical and biological assessment (Chapter 2). It was observed that G. pentaphyllum adapted successfully to the Sydney soil, light and water conditions and the yields provided ample supply of material for extraction purposes