Gotu kola also known as Centella Asiatica or Brahmi in Ayurvedic medicine is a herb that is native to south east Asia. The name Brahmi meaning ‘greatest of the great’ and is one of the most powerful of the rejuvenating herbs in ancient medicine. It comes from the same family as parsley it has years of history in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine.

I first discovered it during a slightly strange herbal bathing experience that followed an Ayurvedic treatment I’d had in India. It involved me sitting awkwardly naked while a kind woman poured buckets of hot water and herbs over me!! A surprisingly nurturing experience. When I enquired about what was in this herbal concoction I was introduced to Gotu kola.

 

This herb Gotu kola has been used in Ayurveda for centuries to treat a number of skin conditions such as acne and dermatitis, scars and even aging. It is widely used in tradition Chinese medicines to treat colds and viruses. In Sri Lanka its referred to as the herb as longevity as it is a favourite snack for elephants which are known for the long life span.

The reason Gotu kola is so affective is down to its many potent compounds. Asiatic acid, Madecassic acid and Asiaticoside. The most potent being pentacyclic triterpenes.

 

They have potent antioxidant properties, help reduce swelling, can help the production of connective tissue and even assist with the formation of new blood vessels. As the herb increases blood supply to connective tissue and increases protein growth in the skin it can actual promote the growth of new skin and even repair damaged skin. Several studies have shown impressive results while using Gotu kola for various skin care and healing applications. It is proven to significantly increase the percentage of collagen and cell layer fibronectin. Therefore has been renamed Botox in a bottle in the skin care world!

 

Gotu kola is a perennial herb that grows in tropical climates. The leaves are used to make teas and extracts, which are said to offer a range of health benefits. According to traditional medicine, Gotu kola can help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing. It is also said to boost cognitive function and memory. Research on the potential health benefits of Gotu kola is limited, but some studies suggest that it may indeed offer some benefit for circulation and cognitive function. More research is needed to confirm these effects.

 

Some research suggests that Gotu kola may help improve wound healing, reduce inflammation, and stimulate collagen production. These effects may help to improve the appearance of scars and other skin blemishes. In addition, Gotu kola is often used as a natural treatment for skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. While there is no scientific evidence to support these uses, some people find that Gotu kola helps to soothe and heal their skin.

If you're interested in trying Gotu kola for your skin, it's important to choose a product that is high quality and from a reputable source.