Gotu Kola
English Name: Gotu kola
Latin Name: Centella asiatica
Type: Herbal
What is Gotu Kola?
Gotu kola is a perennial plant that is native to a number of countries, including but not limited to India, Iran, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Africa, Northern Australia, China, and Indonesia. Although it has a similar name to kola nut, it is not related to this ingredient that contains caffeine; instead, this herb is a member of the parsley family and has small, round leaves that are arranged in a rosette. Gotu kola has been used in traditional medicines, including African medicine, Chinese medicine, and Indian (Ayurvedic) medicine, for centuries for its many health benefits.
Did you know? It is widely known in Sri Lanka that elephants, renowned for their remarkable memory and inability to forget, consume this particular vegetation.
What are the benefits of Gotu Kola?
Cognitive Support
The bioactive compounds, like triterpenoids and flavonoids, in gotu kola display neuroprotective properties, shielding nerve cells in the brain from damage and promoting overall brain health. The antioxidant properties this herb contains help to neutralize harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress within the brain, maintaining the integrity of brain cells, and supporting cognitive function. Some research indicates that gotu kola may influence acetylcholine levels, a neurotransmitter linked to memory and learning processes, in the brain and assist in cognitive functioning. Commonly, this herb is highly recommended to facilitate mental clarity, attention span, concentration, and healthy brain functioning.
Stress & Anxiety
Gotu kola promotes calm and relaxation by regulating the body's cortisol levels, a stress hormone that can have negative effects on the body, and increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps calm the nervous system. When lowering cortisol levels and increasing GABA levels, it helps to relieve stress, reduce anxiety, and improve overall attitude. Also, this herb contains antioxidant properties that protect against oxidative stress, while its calming effects may enhance your sleep quality and mood.
Venous Health
Traditionally, gotu kola has been used as a powerful circulatory tonic to provide support for brain support and nervous system functioning. Gotu kola contains vasodilatory properties, which help dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow, and enhance circulation. This herb is believed to strengthen and tone the walls of veins, making the veins more resilient. The improved blood flow can assist in alleviating symptoms commonly associated with venous insufficiency such as leg swelling, heaviness, and discomfort. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation, protect blood vessels from damage, and lower oxidative stress.
Skin Health
Gotu kola offers a plethora of benefits for skin health. When applied topically, gotu kola stimulates collagen production, leading to smoother and more youthful-looking skin, while enhancing skin elasticity and minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The herb's potent antioxidants neutralize free radicals, protecting the skin from damage and premature aging. Gotu kola contains wound-healing properties that aid in skin cell proliferation and tissue repair, accelerating recovery from minor injuries. Its anti-inflammatory effects also make it a suitable option for managing skin conditions like acne and eczema. With its versatile benefits, gotu kola is an ingredient commonly found in skincare products.
How does Gotu Kola work?
This herb contains compounds called triterpenoids, which have been shown to have a number of beneficial effects on the body. These compounds work by binding to certain receptors in the brain, including GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors and serotonin receptors, and stimulate the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF is a protein that is important for the growth and development of new brain cells. It also helps to protect existing brain cells from damage.
In addition to stimulating the production of BDNF, triterpenoids in gotu kola also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidants can help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, while anti-inflammatory compounds can help to reduce inflammation. The combination of these effects is thought to be responsible for the many health benefits of gotu kola, including improved cognitive function, reduced anxiety, and promoted wound healing.
Native Remedies recommends you consult your doctor before introducing new herbal products into your regimen. Always ensure you are buying high-quality, laboratory-tested supplements from a reputable supplier. At Native Remedies, we back all our products with a 100 percent money-back guarantee. If you’re not happy with your purchase after trying it for 30 days, simply send it back for a refund. Here’s to your good health!
The content provided is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have a health condition, please consult a medical professional and do not use this information to self-diagnose or self-treat.
Resources:
- Fletcher, J. (2023, April 28). Gotu Kola: Health Benefits and Side Effects. Medical News Today. Accessed 2023, August 1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/gotu-kola-benefits.
- Orhan, I. E. (2012, May 14). Centella asiatica (L.) Urban: From Traditional Medicine to Modern Medicine with Neuroprotective Potential. National Library of Medicine. Accessed 2023, August 1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3359802/.
- WebMD. (n.d.). Gotu Kola: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. WebMD. Accessed 2023, August 1. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-753/gotu-kola.