Centella asiatica, commonly known as gotu kola, is a perennial plant used in traditional and alternative medicine systems. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. It is believed to contain several medicinal properties.
Some of these properties include the following:
Anti-inflammatory: Gotu kola has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and swelling in the body.
Antioxidant: The herb contains antioxidants that can protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Wound Healing: Gotu kola has been used for centuries to promote wound healing. It may help improve blood circulation and stimulate the production of collagen, which is crucial for skin repair.
Cognitive Benefits: Some studies suggest that gotu kola may have cognitive-enhancing effects, improving memory, focus, and overall brain function.
Anxiety and Stress Relief: It is believed that gotu kola may help reduce anxiety and stress by promoting relaxation and improving the body’s response to stress.
Venous Insufficiency: Gotu kola extract has been used to alleviate symptoms of venous insufficiency, such as leg swelling, varicose veins, and leg pain.
Skin Health: Applied topically, gotu kola is thought to improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and other skin conditions by stimulating collagen synthesis and boosting blood circulation.
Gastrointestinal Support: Traditional medicine systems have used gotu kola to support digestion and relieve gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers and indigestion.
How to Use Gotu Kola
Gotu kola comes in different forms. Dried leaves may be used as tea. It comes as a powder and in capsule form. It may also be used as a tincture or extract. The herb provides wound healing and is believed to stimulate the production of collagen, which is important for healthy skin. Gotu kola boosts blood circulation and helps to improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and cellulite. It is able to be applied topically to wounds and cuts.
While gotu kola has a long history of traditional use and shows potential in scientific studies, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using it for medicinal purposes.
References
Gohil KJ, Patel JA, Gajjar AK. Pharmacological Review on Centella asiatica: A Potential Herbal Cure-all. Indian J Pharm Sci. 2010;72(5):546-556. doi:10.4103/0250-474X.78519
Pingback: Gotu Kola – Mindy’s Musings