Nutri Herb

Health and Wellness Library:  Gotu Kola

a historical look at the traditional use of Gotu Kola throughout the world

Botanical Name

Centella Asiatica

About Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola is known as a longevity herb and is used widely in India as part of their traditional medicine, Ayurveda. This red flowered plant grows naturally in swampy areas of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, South Africa, Australia, China and the southern United States. Its roots and leaves are used for medicinal purposes and provide important health benefits related to healthy veins and blood vessels, to treat skin disorders, help with better memory and improve brain function.

Nutritional Role of Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola contains chemicals called triterpines (saponins) like asiaticoside, madecassoside and madasiatic acid, which enhance the formulation of collagen in bones, cartilage and connective tissue. These substances work to promote healthy blood vessels by strengthening their walls and improving blood flow. Gotu Kola encourages production of chemical messengers called neurotransmitters to help with brain function.

Traditional Uses of Gotu Kola

• For memory and cognitive function


• For circulation


• For blood vessels and capillaries


• For skin disorders


• For varicose veins


• For nervous system


• For pain and inflammation


• For upper respiratory congestion

Research on the Historical Usage Guidelines of Gotu Kola

This herb should not be used by pregnant or lactating women, or those who are trying to conceive. No known toxicity. People could experience occasional nausea when used in high doses.

Gotu Kola Facts for Informational Purposes Only

Readers should not use this information for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, but should always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any major dietary changes. This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice.