"Gotu Kola - Food For The Brain, And More!"

By Kearney Adams


Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a common herb with fan shaped leaves, that is found in many tropical and subtropical regions.

In addition, it has a rich tradition as part of conventional Indian medicine as a treatment for conditions such as fatigue, hepatitis, and memory enhancement, among others.

It is interesting to note that, in these cultures, it is thought to extend one's life span, although there is little evidence that it can.


It Is Useful for Circulatory Disorders

Although Gotu Kola has many ingredients, its primary components are asiaticode, brahmoside, and madecassic acid.

First of all, these three chemicals are thought to delay, perhaps even prevent, a circulatory problem known as chronic venous insufficiency.

Moreover, with this condition, the veins in the extremities become damaged, resulting in blood pooling in these areas.

Consequently, this translates to an increased likelihood of developing blood clots, spider veins, or varicose veins.

The two above-mentioned chemicals are thought to play an important role in strengthening the circulatory system, thus preventing any circulatory disorders from developing.

In fact, in one study of 94 individuals with venous insufficiency, those taking Gotu Kola saw a significant reduction in symptoms, compared to those taking a placebo.


It Can Also Help Keep Your Mind Sharp

In any event, the chemicals mentioned earlier are part of a class of chemicals known as triterpenoids.

Doubtless, in laboratory mice, these chemicals helped to keep anxiety levels down, with improvements seen in their mental functioning.

Additionally, in another animal study, mice that were given Gotu Kola, demonstrated 3 to 60 times greater retention, of learned behaviors, than rats not given this herb.

Furthermore, it may help to minimize symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Next, in a 1999 study, conducted by the University of Washington, laboratory mice that were given a mixture of Cat's Claw with Gotu Kola, developed fewer areas of plaque in their brains.

Apparently, these two herbs interfere with plaque formation in individuals with Alzheimer's.


It Can Also Reduce Anxiety Levels

Indeed, the triterpenoids found in this herb, can help to reduce anxiety levels, in individuals that are stressed.

Basically, it works its anxiety-relieving magic, because it affects both the brain and the central nervous system.

All in all, in one 1999 study, it was found to be as effective, as prescription medications, in relieving anxiety levels.

Also, in another study, mice that were given this herb, saw a decrease in their anxiety levels, comparable to the effect of the anti-anxiety medicine Diazepam.

In final analysis, Gotu Kola relaxes the nervous system, while stimulating the brain, resulting in improved concentration.


It Also Speeds Wound Healing

In animals, the research indicates that the triterpenoids help to strengthen the skin, while increasing antioxidant levels in open wounds.

As a result, Gotu Kola has seen external use as a treatment for burns, psoriasis, and preventing scars from forming, following surgery.

Accordingly, in research on mice, it was discovered that this herb caused increased production, of several compounds that are needed for wound healing, collagen and hydroxyproline.

Evidently, in this study, mice that were given this herb twice daily, saw improvements in the antioxidant levels of tissue, with improvements ranging from 35% to 75%.

Accordingly, damage by free radicals was decreased almost 75%.


Other Uses

Here are some other ways that Goto Kola may be used:

  • It has proven effective in reducing fevers.
  • It can help those with varicose veins.
  • It has been used as a treatment for liver conditions such as hepatitis.
  • It can help to reduce high blood pressure levels.
  • With Scleroderma, it can help minimize joint pain, hardening of the skin, while improving finger mobility.
  • It is a useful treatment for depression, and can help to stabilize emotions.
  • It functions as a diuretic, eliminating excess fluids from your body.

Side Effects and Contraindications

Some side effects include irritation of the skin, sterility, and sensitivity to light. This herb should be used carefully by individuals that are Diabetic.

Pregnant women should not take this herb, as it may cause an unexpected miscarriage.

Last, one of its components, asiaticoside, has been found to promote the growth of tumors in laboratory mice. Therefore, those individuals with a history of cancerous or precancerous skin lesions, should not take this herb.

Additional research is needed in this area.


In conclusion, Goto Kola has seen use as a part of traditional Indian medicine for thousands of years.

Legend has it that an ancient Chinese herbalist lived for more than 200 years, as a result of taking this herb. It has been called the "miracle elixir of life," as a consequence.

To sum up, we can't promise you will live 200 years, but we certainly hope that your quality of life will be improved from taking this herb.






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