Gotu Kola

Centella asiatica

Gotu Kola – Uses, Side Effects, and More

Gotu kola, a member of the parsley family, is highly regarded in India, perhaps as one of the most spiritual of all herbs. It grows in some areas of the Himalayas where it is used by yogis to improve meditation. It is said to develop the crown chakra which is the energy center at the top of the head and to balance the right and left hemispheres of the brain, which the leaf is said to resemble. It is also regarded as one of the most important rejuvenative herbs in Ayurvedic Medicine, where it enjoys the name “Brahmi”, which is shared with another herb Bacopa.

What is Gotu Kola – Uses, Side Effects, and More Used For?

Because Gotu Kola is a rejuvenative nervine, it is often recommended for balancing the nervous system. Gotu Kola leaf & root contain key constituents that help the body to maintain healthy neurotransmitter function, while also promoting normal levels of mental alertness and a sound memory. Gotu kola also supports the body’s inherent ability to acclimate to temporary stress. Gotu Kola leaf & root have long been used to support the health of skin, hair, and nails in Asia, India and in other native cultures. Numerous clinical trials have shown that Gotu Kola indeed has beneficial dermatologic effects by helping to help support the connective tissue that line many of the external surfaces of the body including the scalp and skin. These supportive actions include supporting normal integrity of skin tissue and connective tissue maintenance, healthy formation of connective tissue structural components, and healthy keratization of the skin. Because Gotu kola supports healthy connective tissue, it also supports blood vessel strength and integrity as well as normal circulation of blood.