Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola), commonly known as Indian pennywort, is a medicinal plant with a widespread use in several traditional medicinal systems. Centella asiatica contains an important bioactive compound known as Asiaticoside that is thoroughly researched in the West due to its extensive beneficial actions.
Gotu Kola Benefits and Uses
Centella asiatica is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows in wet and swampy regions of South East Asia and India. Centella asiatica is known for its therapeutic properties in traditional practices such as Ayurveda and TCM which date back to thousands of years. It is also a popular ingredient in dishes native to Sri Lanka, India, Thailand and Vietnam.
Gotu Kola is commercialized as a dietary supplement because of its numerous health benefits. The active chemical compounds in Centella asiatica are triterpene saponins (madecassoside and asiaticoside), centellosides, and centellose.
The saponin Asiaticoside in particular holds numerous pharmacological activities. Anecdotal evidence suggests Asiaticoside may have vascular-protective and wound healing effects. One study suggested a Gotu Kola extract (topical) increased the rate of healing in wounds because of its ability to stimulate cellular proliferation and collagen synthesis.
Furthermore, promising studies are showing Gotu Kola may improve cognitive functions, namely memory and mood. Other Gotu Kola benefits include healthier circulation and antioxidant effects.
Gotu Kola supplements are also known by a few different names, including:
- Centella asiatica
- Asiatic Pennywort
- Centellase
- Asiaticoside
- Pegagan
- Ji Xue Cao
- Indian Pennywort
- Brahma-Manduki
- Centella coriacea
Scientific Consensus
Asiaticoside supplements are considered safe when taken orally in recommended doses for a duration of up to 2 months. While side effects are rare, in high doses, some may experience nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, digestive upset and skin allergies (with topical use). Asiaticoside has caused liver problems in isolated cases.
Please avoid use in the case of a preexisting liver condition. Consult your health care provider before taking this product.
WARNING: Gotu Kola has been shown to cause spontaneous abortions in excessive amounts. Pregnant women should avoid using this product.LiftMode offers a variety of unit sizes of HPLC-tested Gotu Kola Extract Powder, including a a 2g unit, a 5g unit, a 10g unit and a 20g unit. Our Gotu Kola Extract Powder is of the highest quality.