Gotu Kola

🌿 (Centella asiatica)

Also known as Mandukaparni in Ayurveda

📖 Overview

Gotu Kola is a small, water-loving herb with fan-shaped leaves, traditionally used in Ayurveda and other Eastern systems of medicine to support mental clarity, skin regeneration, and nervous system health. It is known for enhancing memory, wound healing, and connective tissue strength.

📜 Traditional Use in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, Gotu Kola is known as Mandukaparni and is considered a Medhya Rasayana—a rejuvenative herb for the mind. It is often used to balance Vata and Pitta, calm the nervous system, and promote mental clarity.

Charaka Samhita (Chikitsa Sthana 1.3.30):
“Mandukaparni medhya smritiprada rasayana”
“Mandukaparni is a Rasayana that enhances intellect and memory.”

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Haritakyadi Varga, Verse 182):
“Mandukaparni sheeta tikta medhya rasayana grahi”
“Mandukaparni is cooling, bitter, intellect-enhancing, and a Rasayana that supports rejuvenation.”

Traditionally, it is used both internally and externally for mental clarity, wound healing, and skin conditions.

🍵 Suggested Use

Gotu Kola can be taken in:

Churna (powder): 1–2 grams daily with warm water, ghee, or honey
Tea or infusion: Often taken for calming the mind and supporting digestion
Capsules or tinctures: Available in concentrated extracts
Topically: In oils or salves for skin regeneration and wound care

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Modern research supports Gotu Kola's neuroprotective and skin-rejuvenating properties:

Cognitive Support: Studies show Gotu Kola may enhance memory and cognitive function in elderly patients [1]
Wound Healing: Gotu Kola supports collagen synthesis and tissue regeneration [2]
Anti-anxiety Effects: Has shown promise in reducing anxiety without sedative side effects [3]

References:

Farooqui, A. A., et al. (2018). Neuroprotective effect of Centella asiatica in cognitive impairment. J Ethnopharmacol, 228, 26–35.
Shukla, A., et al. (1999). In vitro and in vivo wound healing activity of asiaticoside isolated from Centella asiatica. Int J Low Extrem Wounds, 4(3), 145–153.
Wijeweera, P., et al. (2006). Evaluation of anxiolytic properties of Centella asiatica extracts in animal models.Phytother Res, 20(9), 780–785.