(centella asiatica)
This plant grows in a widespread distribution in tropical, swampy areas, including parts of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and South Africa. This slender, creeping plant flourishes in and around water. The roots and leaves are used medicinally.
Gotu kola has been important in the medicinal systems of central Asia for centuries. In Sri Lanka, it was purported to prolong life, as the leaves are commonly eaten by elephants. Numerous skin diseases, ranging from poorly healing wounds to leprosy, have been treated with gotu kola. Gotu kola also has a historical reputation for boosting mental activity and for helping a variety of illnesses, such as high blood pressure, rheumatism, fever, and nervous disorders. Some of its common applications in Ayurvedic medicine include heart disease, water retention, hoarseness, bronchitis, and coughs in children, and as a poultice for many skin conditions.
What it does
Gotu kola contains compounds called triterpenoids which have complex actions, but are generally involved in connective tissue repair and stimulation of the healing processes, whilst reducing scar tissue formation. Generally gotu kola is also thought to improve the structure of connective tissue surrounding veins. It is also anti-biotic and a detoxifier.
Potential Uses
| Skin ulcers | Wound healing | Varicose veins |
| Raynauds disease | Keloid scars | Cellulite |
Medical Uses of Gotu Kola:
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a revered herb in traditional medicine systems, known for its therapeutic properties. It has been used for centuries in various cultures for its potential health benefits:
- Cognitive Enhancement: Gotu Kola is believed to support cognitive function, potentially enhancing memory and mental clarity.
- Wound Healing: Its high content of triterpenoid compounds may aid in wound healing by stimulating collagen production.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Gotu Kola’s anti-inflammatory properties may assist in alleviating symptoms of conditions like arthritis.
- Skin Health: The herb is rich in antioxidants, contributing to its potential in promoting healthy, glowing skin.
- Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Gotu Kola may help reduce anxiety and stress levels, possibly due to its adaptogenic properties.
Recipes to Use Gotu Kola at Home:
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Gotu Kola Salad:
- Ingredients: Gotu Kola leaves, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, balsamic vinaigrette.
- Instructions: Toss chopped Gotu Kola leaves with vegetables and feta cheese. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
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Gotu Kola Infused Tea:
- Ingredients: Gotu Kola leaves, hot water, honey (optional).
- Instructions: Steep Gotu Kola leaves in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Sweeten with honey if desired, and enjoy a soothing herbal tea.
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Gotu Kola Face Mask:
- Ingredients: Gotu Kola powder, yogurt, honey.
- Instructions: Mix Gotu Kola powder with yogurt and honey to form a paste. Apply to the face, leave for 15 minutes, and rinse for radiant skin.
Incorporating Gotu Kola into your routine can be a wonderful way to tap into its potential health benefits. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing health conditions or are pregnant.
Other information
Research has shown that gotu kola extracts improve concentration, attention, and have anti-stress and anti-anxiety effects.
Gotu Kola is used by herbalists for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, wound healing, minor burns, mental function and cellulite. The positive effect of gotu kola on the integrity of skin dermis (the second layer of skin tissue) is associated with its promotion of glycosaminoglycans, a major component of connective tissue.
Gotu kola appears to enhance the connective tissue structure and improve venous circulation.
Cautions
Generally, there are no side effects or contra-indications from using gotu kola.
At the time of writing there were no well known negative drug interactions with gotu kola.
If you are taking sedatives, anti-diabetic drugs or anti-lipidemics consult your doctor before taking gotu kola.
