Gotu Kola Centella asiatica (L.)


Centella asiatica (L.)
Gotu Kola leaves
  • Common Names
  • Gotu Kola , Indian Pennywort, Brahmi
  • Botanical Name
  • Centella asiatica (L.)
  • Syn. Hydrocotyle asiatica
  • Family
  • APIACEAE

Medicinal Uses & Benefits of Gotu Kola

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How to Use: Gotu Kola


Gotu kola is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine and TCM to rejuvenate both mind and body. The herb is often used in conjunction with bacopa, or Brahmi to improve mental focus and improve memory. 4

Clinical experiments have shown that the plant rejuvenates skin and body tissue by stimulating collagen synthesis. Gotu kola's constituents of primary pharmacological interest are its triterpenoids, which have been shown to exert a complex set of actions on cells and tissues, particularly connective tissues, participating in the healing process. (Duke,James, Ph.D.,119)

Gotu kola is an excellent vasodilator and blood vessel strengthener. The herb is also often used as a diuretic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory. This herb facilitates the actions of the antioxidant vitamins C and E in areas where there is damage.1,3

Preparation Methods & Dosage :Tea or tincture, salves, lotions and poultices. The herb tea has a light, enjoyable, slightly woody taste that is improved with lemon and a bit of honey. Fresh leaves can be eaten in salads.

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Gotu Kola Remedies


Gotu Kola Side Effects: Be cautious if you are taking prescription drugs for depression, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. Extremely large doses might cause nausea.

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Plant Description


Low lying herb with umbrella like leaves that are a favorite food for elephants, Gotu Kola is part of the parsley family (and unrelated to the cola nut)and grows in tropical Africa, South America, Asia and Australia.

Regional Traditions :African *