Gotu kola (Centella Asiatica) is a small, perennial plant native to Asia. The leaves and stems of this herb are used medicinally.
Gotu kola has a long history of use in traditional medicine practices, including promoting wound healing, improving circulation, enhancing mental clarity, and boosting energy levels. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The mechanisms that Gotu kola produces its beneficial effects are not fully understood. However, it is thought that the herb’s active constituents, including asiaticoside, brahmoside, and madecassoside, may play a role.
These compounds are believed to promote wound healing by increasing the production of collagen and other proteins that are essential for healing.
Additionally, they may help improve circulation by strengthening the walls of blood vessels. The antioxidants in Gotu kola may also help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Top 16 Benefits Of Gotu Kola: What You Need To Know
There are many benefits to be derived from consuming Gotu kola. Some of the most notable benefits include:
Wound healing
Gotu kola has been shown to promote wound healing, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it can help speed up the healing process and prevent infection.
Many health experts believe that Gotu kola’s healing property is because it helps increase the production of collagen, a protein that is essential for wound healing.
Improved circulation
The active compounds in Gotu kola help improve blood circulation, which can help reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. It also helps improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs, boosting energy levels and overall health.
There are a few reasons why Gotu kola can produce such effects. For one, it helps to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow. Additionally, Gotu kola is believed to promote the formation of new blood vessels, which can help improve circulation.
Mental Clarity
Gotu kola is often called “the mental herb” because it has been traditionally used to enhance cognitive function and memory.
Some studies have shown that Gotu kola can help improve working memory and intelligence. Additionally, this herb is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety levels, promoting better focus and concentration.
Boosts Energy Levels
Gotu kola is a natural energizer because it helps improve blood circulation and oxygenation of tissues. This can help reduce fatigue and promote overall vitality.
This provides the cells with more oxygen and energy needed to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s energy currency. Then, the body can use this energy for all its needs, including physical activity and mental tasks.
Antioxidant Properties
Gotu kola is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the body from harmful free radicals. These radicals can damage cells and tissues, leading to various diseases.
The antioxidants in Gotu kola can help scavenge these free radicals and prevent them from causing damage. Additionally, Gotu kola is believed to stimulate glutathione production, one of the body’s most important antioxidants.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Gotu kola has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve swelling and pain associated with arthritis and joint pain.
The anti-inflammatory effects of Gotu kola are due to the presence of compounds called triterpenes. These compounds help reduce inflammation by blocking the action of inflammatory enzymes and proteins.
Improve digestion
Gotu kola is a natural laxative that can help improve digestion and relieve constipation. It does this by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and promoting peristalsis, the movement of food through the digestive tract.
Many medical experts agree that Gotu kola’s laxative effects are due to its ability to increase bile production, a fluid that helps break down fats.
Boosts Immunity
Gotu kola is an immunostimulant, meaning it helps stimulate the immune system. It does this by increasing the production of white blood cells and antibodies, which help fight infection.
Additionally, Gotu kola is believed to possess antimicrobial properties that can help protect the body from harmful bacteria and viruses.
Skin Health
Gotu kola is often used as a natural remedy for various skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. This is thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Gotu kola can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, two major contributing factors to many skin diseases.
Additionally, Gotu kola is believed to promote collagen production, which is essential for healthy skin.
May Help Prevent Cancer
Some evidence suggests that Gotu kola may have anticancer properties. This is due to the presence of compounds called saponins, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Further research is needed to determine whether Gotu kola can prevent or treat cancer. However, the potential anticancer effects of this herb are certainly worth investigating.
Helps insomnia
Many people find that Gotu kola helps improve sleep quality and duration. This is likely due to the herb’s ability to reduce stress and anxiety levels, promoting relaxation and a better night’s sleep.
Research is needed to confirm these sleep-promoting effects, but if they are authentic, Gotu kola can be a helpful natural remedy for sleep disorders.
May improve mental health
Gotu kola has long been used as a natural treatment for various mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
This is likely due to the herb’s ability to boost cognitive function and promote relaxation. Additionally, Gotu kola is rich in antioxidants that can help protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals. However, more research is needed to confirm these mental health benefits. Still, there is potential for Gotu kola to be used as a natural treatment for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
Stretch marks remedy
Gotu kola is also said to help fade stretch marks. But, again, the reasoning here is that Gotu kola helps improve collagen production, which can help keep skin elastic and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Once again, more research is needed to confirm these effects, but Gotu kola could be a natural remedy for stretch marks if true.
May have anti-aging effects
Gotu kola is also said to have anti-aging effects. This is likely due to compounds like antioxidants and collagen, which help keep the skin looking young and healthy. Additionally, Gotu kola’s ability to improve circulation may also help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging.
May improve fertility
Gotu kola is also said to improve fertility. This is likely due to the herb’s ability to increase blood flow and circulation. Additionally, Gotu kola’s stress-reducing effects may also help improve fertility by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
May lower blood sugar levels
Gotu kola is also said to lower blood sugar levels. This is likely due to the herb’s ability to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Additionally, Gotu kola may help regulate blood sugar by increasing insulin release from the pancreas.
Side Effects
The side effects of Gotu kola are not well known. However, there are some potential risks associated with this herb.
May cause allergic reactions
Some people may experience an allergic reaction to Gotu kola. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, or swelling. If you experience these symptoms, stop taking Gotu kola and see a doctor immediately.
May interact with certain medications
Gotu kola may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and blood pressure medications. If you take any medication, it is essential to speak to a doctor before taking Gotu kola.
It may not be safe for pregnant women
It is unknown whether getting kola is safe for pregnant women. Therefore, it is best to avoid taking this herb if pregnant.
It may not be safe for breastfeeding women
It is also unknown whether or not Gotu kola is safe for breastfeeding women. Therefore, it is best to avoid taking this herb if breastfeeding.
May cause side effects in some people
Some people may experience side effects when taking Gotu kola. These side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or headache. If you experience these side effects, stop taking Gotu kola and see a doctor immediately.
May not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions
Gotu kola may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or high blood pressure. If you have a medical condition, you must speak to a doctor before taking Gotu kola.
May interact with other herbs and supplements
Gotukola may interact with other herbs and supplements. Therefore, it is essential to speak to a doctor before taking Gotu kola.
May not be suitable for children
Gotu kola is not recommended for children. Therefore, it is best to avoid giving this herb to children.
May is not suitable for older adults.
Gotu kola is also not recommended for older adults. This is because the herb may increase the risk of falls in older adults.
May interact with certain foods
Gotu kola may interact with certain foods, such as caffeine. Therefore, it is best to avoid taking Gotu kola if you consume caffeine.
Conclusion
So, what’s the verdict? Is Gotu kola worth taking as a supplement? The answer is yes—provided you take it in moderation and don’t have any pre-existing conditions that would preclude you from using it.
Gotu kola has some great benefits, but like with anything else, it’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects before adding it to your supplement routine. Have you tried Gotu kola yet? Let us know how you feel about it in the comments below!