Gotu Kola
- Centella asiatica L.
- Hydrocotyle asiatica L.
- Umbelliferae
- Umbel family
Common Names
 Brahmi
(Sanskrit name)
Man-t'ien-hsing
(Chinese name)
Parts Usually Used
Seeds, aerial parts
Description of Plant(s) and Culture
A low creeping vine, not much description given on this herb.
Where Found
Cultivated in the United States. Native to Asia. Commonly grows in
the Himalayas.
Medicinal Properties
Alterative, antipyretic, diuretic, febrifuge, antispasmodic, nervine,
sedative, tonic
Biochemical Information
Catachol, espicatechol, magnesium, theobromine, and vitamin K
Legends, Myths and Stories
Gotu Kola was probably first used in India, where it is part of the
Ayurveda, the traditional herbal medicine. It was also mentioned in
the Shennong Herbal compiled in China about 2,000 years ago. In recent
years it has become popular in the West.
Probably the most important rejuvenative herb in Ayurvedic medicine.
It is said to increase intelligence, longevity, memory; it decreases
senility and aging. It fortifies the immune system, both cleansing
and feeding it.
Gotu Kola is used by yogis as food for meditation. A cup of the herbal
tea can be taken with honey before meditation.
Uses
A mildly bitter herb that stimulates the central nervous system,
aids in the elimination of excess fluids, shrinks tissues, decreases
fatigue and depression.
Used for rheumatism, neuralgia,
blood diseases, congestive heart failure, sore
throat, tonsillitis,
colds, coughs, swelling due to
phlebitis, hay
fever, leg cramps,
swelling of the legs, hepatitis, epilepsy, premature aging, senility,
leprosy, syphilis, eczema,
psoriasis, malaria,
a blood purifier, urinary
tract infections, venereal
disease, measles, insomnia,
nervous and distressed emotions, and stress.
Acts as a diuretic. May neutralize blood acids and lower
body temperature. Good for liver and heart function. May promote
hair growth when combined with eclipta.
Gotu Kola is known as the "memory herb". It stimulates circulation
to the brain. Given for forgetfulness or confusion. Considered to
be one of the best nerve tonics and many people use Gotu Kola to increase
learning ability. It promotes mental calm and clarity and assists
in the practice of yoga and meditation.
Formulas or Dosages
Capsules: take 1 capsule up to 3 times daily.
Extract: mix 5 to 10 drops in liquid. Take 3 times per day.
Warning
Do not use during pregnancy. One manufacturer cautions to avoid this
herb if an over-active thyroid is diagnosed.
High doses can cause headaches or aggravate itching, and even temporary
loss of consciousness.
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