Gotu kola, (scientific name centella asiatica), is also known as Indian pennywort, Asiatic pennywort, spadeleaf and coinwort. It is a small green herb that grows in warm regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and the western Pacific islands. Gotu kola is both a food and a medicine. Let us discover the powerful Gotu kola benefits for our body and mind.
In Ayurveda, Gotu Kola (Mandukaparni) is considered a powerful medhya rasayana (brain tonic). Various Ayurvedic texts mention that it improves memory, focus and mental clarity. Moreover, as per Ayurveda, it is a tridoshic herb. It means it balances Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas when used correctly.
Top Gotu Kola benefits for Health
1. Gotu Kola Benefits: For Brain and Memory
This wonder herb Gotu Kola supports brain health and may improve memory and thinking. Gotu kola benefits us by improving our mental function. Studies show that compounds in Gotu kola, such as triterpenes and CQAs, can help brain cells grow new connections. This herb is important for learning and memory.
The research from Oregon Health & Science University found that Gotu kola improved nerve growth in mouse brain cells and helped older fruit flies move better. This suggests that Gotu kola may protect the brain as we age.
2. Gotu kola Benefits: For Blood Circulation
Gotu kola is good for blood vessel. It makes the walls of veins stronger. Thereby, it helps in improving blood flow. Its active compounds are triterpenoids. Research suggests that Gotu kola may help reduce fluid retention and swelling in the lower limbs. In addition, Gotu kola also helps in preventing travel-related swelling, particularly in the legs and ankles during long flights. Besides, this herb improves microcirculation and reduces leakage from capillaries. This can prevent heaviness or discomfort in the legs.
3.Gotu kola Benefits: For Gut Health
Most importantly, this amazing herb also supports digestive health. It contains a small amount of protein and also vitamin C and vitamin B complex and minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium, and some antioxidant properties. Thereby, these nutrients support the digestive system. It is a support in gut lining repair and is used for treating ulcers and digestive discomfort. Furthermore, it can also enhance mucous secretions in the intestine and effectively heal stomach aches.
4. Gotu Kola Benefits: For Skin and Wound Healing
Additionally, Gotu Kola has wound healing and skin repairing properties. Many scientific studies support this fact. In the year 2013, a study revealed that madecassoside, a bioactive compound found in Gotu Kola, significantly improves collagen formation. It makes the skin stronger. Triterpenoids, available in Centella asiatica, strengthens the skin, boosts antioxidants in wounds, and increases blood supply to the area.
Another study in 2013 found that asiaticoside, another compound in Gotu kola, help wounds heal faster. It helps to reduce redness, irritation, and itching.
5. Gotu kola Benefits: For Liver Health
Gotu kola may protect and heal the liver. A 2017 study showed that Gotu Kola extracts, restores liver enzymes. It balances and reduces inflammation in the tissue. Antioxidant properties in Gotu kola help to reduce oxidative stress and free radicals in the body.
Another 2020 study found that Gotu kola helps the liver in the process of detoxification. As a result, it helps in the regeneration of liver cells and also helps to repair the liver after damage caused by alcohol and fatty liver disease.
6. Gotu Kola for Reducing Anxiety & Promoting Relaxation:
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, Gotu Kola can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone. It can also regulate brain neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin, which promote relaxation.
As a result, Gotu kola is useful for managing stress, improving alertness and calming the mind.
A research study (2000) expressed that Gotu Kola extract significantly reduced anxiety in participants compared to a placebo.
7. Gotu Kola for better Kidney Function and Detoxification:
Besides helping the brain and nerve, Gotu kola may support healthy kidney function. It also improves blood flow, which helps the kidney work better. In addition to this, the herb may also help the body to get rid of toxins, heavy metals and excess fluids.
Because of this, Gotu kola can act as a natural detox aid..
8. Gotu Kola for Vision Health:
Interestingly, Gotu kola benefits may extend to vision health. It protects your eyes. It boosts blood flow to the retina and optic nerve, which are important for clear vision. Furthermore, it has antioxidants like asiaticoside, which protect the eyes from damage caused by aging.
A 2020 study found that Gotu kola helped the eyes in making more rhodopsin, a protein in the retina that helps you to see in low light. Therefore, this may help in preventing age related vision problems.
How to Use Gotu kola
All parts of Gotu kola plant- leaves, roots , stems and flowers- are useful. it can be taken in many forms, like:
- Salad or green juices
- Herbal teas
- Powder or tablets
Common Dosages:
- 30 to 50 ml of leaf juice extract
- 3-5 grams of dried leaf powder (for adults)
Important Note: Always consult a doctor or an Ayurvedic expert before using Gotu kola, especially for regular or long-term use.
Conclusion: Why You Should Explore Gotu Kola Benefits
To sum up, this wonderful herb is a gift of Mother Nature. It supports brain, skin, liver and digestion. Whether in your diet or as a supplement, this herb can boost your health in many ways. Its long history in traditional medicine and growing support from modern science makes it a powerful natural remedy.
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