Lo Han Guo
Other names for Lo Han Guo
lo han
lo han extract
lo han guo extract
lo han guo fruit extract
lo han (momordica grosvenorii) extract
momordica grosvenorii fruit extract
momordica grosvenorii fruit extract, natural
monk fruit
monk fruit extract
monk fruit extract, natural
monk fruit, powder
wildcrafted luo han guo dried fruit liquid extract
Synopsis of Lo Han Guo
History
Lo Han Guo (Siraitia grosvenorii), also known as monk fruit, has a long and esteemed history in traditional Chinese medicine. For centuries, this small, green melon native to southern China has been treasured not only for its natural sweetness, but also for its remarkable medicinal properties. Historical records dating back to the 13th century describe Lo Han Guo as a cooling herb, prized for its ability to soothe coughs, relieve sore throats, and reduce phlegm. It was commonly brewed into teas or decoctions to ease respiratory ailments, such as bronchitis and asthma. Its mild and pleasant flavor made it especially suitable for children and the elderly.
Beyond respiratory health, Lo Han Guo was also valued for its purported ability to moisten the lungs, cool internal heat, and support digestive well-being. Traditional remedies often included Lo Han Guo in combinations with other Chinese herbs—such as chrysanthemum, licorice root, and honeysuckle—to enhance their synergistic effects. These blends were used to address symptoms of dry cough, hoarseness, and even constipation, offering holistic support for overall vitality.
Today, Lo Han Guo continues to contribute positively to both nutrition and wellness. Its natural, non-caloric sweetness makes it a favored ingredient in health products, especially for those seeking alternatives to sugar. Its historical use as a gentle, effective remedy highlights its enduring value in herbal medicine and modern nutrition alike.
Traditional and scientific validation
Lo Han Guo, also known as monk fruit (Siraitia grosvenorii), has a longstanding history in traditional Chinese medicine, where it has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats, coughs, and constipation. Its fruit extract is prized for its intense natural sweetness, attributed to unique compounds called mogrosides, which are estimated to be up to 250 times sweeter than sucrose yet contain negligible calories. This has made Lo Han Guo an attractive natural alternative to sugar in nutritional products, particularly for those seeking to manage caloric intake or blood sugar levels.
Scientifically, several studies have explored Lo Han Guo’s potential health benefits. Research indicates that mogrosides possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help combat oxidative stress and support general well-being. Some animal and in vitro studies have also suggested possible anti-diabetic and anti-cancer activities, although these effects have yet to be consistently validated in large-scale human trials. A few small clinical trials have demonstrated the safety of monk fruit extract as a sweetener, showing no significant adverse effects when used in moderation.
While the body of clinical evidence is still emerging, regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have recognized monk fruit extract as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use as a sweetener. Overall, Lo Han Guo represents a promising, natural innovation for the food and nutrition industry, particularly for those seeking healthier alternatives to conventional sugars. Nonetheless, further high-quality human research is needed to confirm its full range of health effects.
Lo Han Guo is used for these health conditions
Acid Indigestion (Traditional)
Allergies (respiratory) (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Traditional)
Colds (decongestant) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Congestion (sinus) (Traditional)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Influenza (Traditional)
Rhinitis (Traditional)
Rhinitis, Allergic (Traditional)
Sinus Infection (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Lo Han Guo is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)