Gotu Kola

Centella asiatica

Apiaceae (Parsley Family formally Umbelliferae)

Often called the “herb of longevity” for its rejuvenating properties that promote mental clarity, skin health, and circulatory support.

Other names:

Indian Pennywort, Asiatic Pennywort, Brahmi (though Brahmi is also used for Bacopa monnieri)

Botanical Description

Spiritual Associations

Superpower

The ability to enhance cognitive function, promote wound healing, and support longevity.

Uses

Ayurvedic Medicine: In Ayurveda, Centella asiatica (known as Mandukaparni or Brahmi) has been used for centuries as a medhya rasayana (mind rejuvenator) to enhance cognitive function, memory, and concentration. It is also considered a balancer of Vata and Pitta doshas, making it useful for treating anxiety, insomnia, and mental fatigue. Additionally, it is used in skin care to promote wound healing and reduce scarring.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): In TCM, Gotu Kola (Ji Xue Cao) is used to clear heat, drain dampness, and promote blood circulation. It is prescribed for conditions such as skin inflammation, wounds, and burns, as well as to calm the spirit and improve mental clarity. It is also used to treat jaundice and edema by supporting the liver and kidneys.

Southeast Asia: In Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and other parts of Southeast Asia, Gotu Kola is used in traditional herbal remedies for skin diseases, fevers, leprosy, and wound healing. It is also consumed as a food and tonic to promote general health and longevity.

Current Uses:

Cognitive Function and Brain Health: Gotu Kola is widely used as a nootropic to improve memory, focus, and mental performance, especially in cases of age-related cognitive decline and dementia. Research supports its ability to enhance neuroprotection, reduce oxidative stress in the brain, and improve synaptic communication.

Wound Healing and Skin Health: Centella asiatica is highly regarded for its role in promoting collagen production and improving skin elasticity. It is used to treat wounds, burns, and scars. The herb is commonly found in modern cosmetic formulations aimed at anti-aging, scar reduction, and skin repair.

Venous Insufficiency: Gotu Kola is used to support vascular health, especially for conditions like chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and edema. It improves circulation by strengthening the walls of veins and capillaries, reducing swelling, and preventing fluid retention.

Anxiety and Mental Well-being: In modern herbalism, Gotu Kola is recognized for its ability to reduce anxiety and promote mental calm. Studies show that it can reduce stress-related biomarkers and improve sleep quality.

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant: Gotu Kola contains potent antioxidants that help to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation, supporting overall immune health and preventing cellular damage.

Cautions

Toxicity:

Side Effects: May include G.I. upset, itchiness, contact dermatitis, sedation, headaches.
Photosensitivity: Some individuals may experience photosensitivity, an increased sensitivity to sunlight. Prolonged sun exposure should be avoided or minimized, especially if you are prone to sunburn, and sunscreen should be used when necessary.
Carcinogenic: Concerns if used long term topically.

Contraindications:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Due to a lack of conclusive research, Gotu Kola is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, may decrease fertility.
Liver Toxicity: Avoid in history of liver disease or where sedation poses danger.
Allergic: Sensitivity in some people.

Interactions:

May inhibit: Efficacy of anti-diabetic medications.
Blood Thinners/Anticoagulants: Gotu Kola may interact with anticoagulant medications such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel, increasing the risk of bleeding. Patients on blood-thinning medications should consult their healthcare provider before using Gotu Kola.
Sedatives: Gotu Kola has mild sedative effects, so it should be used cautiously with other sedative medications like benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or sleep aids to prevent excessive drowsiness or sedation.
Cholesterol-lowering Drugs: Gotu Kola may interact with statins or other medications for cholesterol by enhancing their effects or possibly interfering with their metabolism.
May have Additive Effects: With vasodilators, CNS (central nervous system) depressants, and alter effects of GABAnergic medications.

Known Chemical Constituents

Triterpenoid Saponins:

- Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Centelloside: These are the primary active components responsible for Gotu Kola’s wound healing, anti-inflammatory, collagen synthesis, and skin repair properties. Asiaticoside, in particular, promotes angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels) and supports tissue repair.
- Madecassic Acid: A potent anti-inflammatory compound that also contributes to collagen production and tissue regeneration.

Flavonoids:

- Quercetin, Kaempferol, Rutin: These are powerful antioxidants that protect against oxidative damage, support vascular health, and improve circulation by strengthening blood vessels. They also have anti-inflammatory properties.

Volatile Oils:

- Contain calming and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to Gotu Kola’s effect on stress relief and mental relaxation.

Polysaccharides:

- Immune-modulating compounds that also support hydration and aid in tissue repair, contributing to the plant’s effectiveness in promoting skin healing.

Tannins:

- These compounds provide astringent properties, helping to tighten tissues and support the body’s natural healing processes, particularly for wounds and skin conditions.

Phytosterols:

- Stigmasterol, Beta-sitosterol: These compounds promote cell repair and skin health, making Gotu Kola a popular ingredient in anti-aging treatments and products.

Phenolic Acids:

- Caffeic acid, Chlorogenic acid: These compounds contribute to Gotu Kola’s antioxidant activity, protecting cells from oxidative damage and helping to maintain healthy circulation.

Botanical Description

Growth Habit:
Centella asiatica is a creeping perennial herb that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It grows low to the ground, spreading via stolons (horizontal stems) and forming a dense mat.

Leaves:
The leaves are round to kidney-shaped, with a smooth texture and prominent veins. They are bright green and can grow up to 2-5 cm in diameter, attached to the stem via long petioles. The edges of the leaves are slightly toothed, and the leaves often have a fan-like appearance.

Stems:
The stems are slender, green to reddish, and creeping, allowing the plant to spread across moist ground. These stolons produce roots at the nodes, helping the plant spread quickly in favorable conditions.

Flowers:
The flowers of Centella asiatica are small and inconspicuous, growing in clusters from the base of the leaves. They are typically pinkish-white or light purple and form in umbels of 2 to 4 flowers.

Fruits:
The plant produces small, flattened fruits called achenes, which are around 1-2 mm in size.

Habitat:
Centella asiatica prefers moist, marshy environments and is often found along the banks of rivers, ponds, and wetlands. It is native to India, Sri Lanka, China, Indonesia, and other parts of Asia but can also grow in parts of Africa and the United States. The plant thrives in areas with partial to full sunlight and is tolerant of various soil types as long as there is adequate moisture.

Fun Facts

Gotu Kola is often referred to as the “herb of longevity” and was traditionally consumed by Yogi monks to enhance meditation and mental clarity.

Parts Used

Aerial

Harvest

Leaves:
The leaves of Centella asiatica are the primary part of the plant harvested for medicinal use. They can be harvested throughout the growing season, but the ideal time to harvest is in the spring and summer when the plant is in its most active growth phase, producing the highest levels of active constituents.

Best Time to Harvest:
Leaves should be harvested when they are young, vibrant green, and healthy. It’s best to pick them during the morning hours when the plant’s nutrient content is at its peak but after any dew has dried off.
Harvesting Method:
The leaves can be handpicked or trimmed using scissors. It’s important not to damage the root system while harvesting to allow the plant to regenerate and continue growing. Harvest the whole leaf along with the stem to maximize medicinal yield.
Post-Harvest Processing:
After harvesting, the leaves should be washed gently to remove any dirt or debris. They are often dried in a well-ventilated, shaded area to preserve their active compounds. Once dried, the leaves can be stored in airtight containers and used in preparations like teas, powders, or tinctures.

Preparations

Tea/Infusion: The dried or fresh leaves of Gotu Kola are steeped in boiling water to make a mild tea that supports mental clarity, skin health, and circulatory function.

Tincture: The leaves are extracted in alcohol or glycerin to create a concentrated tincture. This form is often used for cognitive support, anxiety relief, and improving venous insufficiency.

Powder (Churna): Gotu Kola is dried and ground into a fine powder. The powder can be taken with honey, ghee, or warm water to support mental function, reduce stress, and promote skin healing.

Capsules/Tablets: Gotu Kola is available in supplement form, such as capsules or tablets, making it convenient for daily use to support cognitive health, circulation, and anti-aging.

Oil (Taila): Gotu Kola is infused in oil, often used in Ayurvedic massage and for skin application. The oil is beneficial for wound healing, reducing scarring, and promoting skin regeneration.

Topical Poultice: Fresh leaves can be crushed and applied directly to wounds, burns, or ulcers to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
Extracts in Cosmetics: Gotu Kola is widely used in creams, lotions, and serums to support anti-aging, improve skin elasticity, and reduce scarring.

Sacred Rituals

In Buddhist traditions, Gotu Kola was used by monks to enhance their meditation practice, believed to aid in achieving higher states of consciousness.

Affirmations

“As Gotu Kola nourishes my brain, my mind expands to new realms of understanding.”

Spiritual Associations

A symbol of balance and harmony. Its cooling and calming properties are said to ground the individual, helping them achieve mental peace and emotional stability. This grounded energy supports emotional healing, making Gotu Kola a spiritual ally for those seeking inner balance.

Functions