Gotu Kola

Gotu kola, Latin Centella asiatica, is a climbing plant from the plant family Apiaceae. It grows to a height of two meters and is especially noticeable with its large leaves, which resemble heart in shape.

We can find it in tropical climates, especially in India, China, but also Indonesia, Sri Lanka, or Africa. The plant likes very humid areas – it’s growing mainly around swamps, wetlands and rivers.

It has been and still is an indispensable part of (not only) Indian Ayurveda and Chinese medicine. Due to its complex effects on the human body, it is referred to as the elixir of youth and longevity.

HISTORY

The healing properties of the plant have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Thanks to its unique content of active ingredients, it served as a reliable means of promoting vitality and longevity. After all, many original legends say that Gotu Kola helped keep many people and animals healthy. Rumors from the Chinese provinces tell of herbalists who, thanks to the regular use of the decoction of Gotu Kola, have been able to live for over 200 years.

It is said that even injured wild animals searched for fallen leaves of Gotu Kola, in which they subsequently rolled out – their injuries thus came into contact with the plant, which supported the regeneration of damaged tissues.

Due to its unique effect on the mind, Gotu Kola is also nicknamed the herb of enlightenment – it supports cognitive functions, clarifies thinking and improves the overall functioning of the brain. Thanks to these abilities, the plant was an important part of the spiritual practices of Indian yogis.

CHEMISTRY

Gotu Kola is rich in saponins, which are substances that have revitalizing effects on our body – they optimize blood circulation and support the production of collagen, thereby improving the properties of hair, skin and nails.

The plant also contains high amounts of vitamins (A, B2, C, E and K), minerals (iron, potassium, calcium, sodium, zinc and others) and saturated fatty acids.

EFFECTS

The main effects of Gotu Kola are the ones that affect brain functions – it serves as an effective nootropic, improves cognitive functions, clarifies thinking, promotes good memory and concentration. It is therefore a popular supplement for students and managers who need to increase their cognitive performance.

According to the latest research, the plant supports the synthesis of the BDNF protein, which is responsible for neurogenesis – the growth of new brain cells. It can therefore serve as an adjunct in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

Gotu Kola also has relaxing effects, promotes relaxation and relieves excess stress and tension, and also improves sleep quality.

Thanks to its complex effects on the whole organism, it supports harmonization on many levels – it has an anti-inflammatory effect, accelerates the regeneration of damaged tissues, improves blood circulation, permeates blood vessels, reduces swelling and blood clots. It supports the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, which has a positive effect on skin hydration and overall health. It also helps in the treatment of acne. With its strong antioxidant effects, it supports the overall vitality of the body.

Gotu Kola is traditionally used externally – leaves or leaf powder was for its anti-inflammatory effects applied to diseased skin – to heal various burns, ulcers, swelling, etc. It also helps to treat aphthae, varicose veins, and eczema.

DOSAGE

Tulsi Gotu Kola Blend

Pour boiling water over one teaspoon of the mixture (2-4 g) and let it infuse for 5-10 minutes. To achieve maximum health benefits, we recommend using 2 – 3 times per day.

Ultrasonic tincture

For health support, it is recommended to take an ultrasonic tincture of Gotu Kola at a dose of 1 ml twice a day.

COMBINATION

Tulsi Gotu Kola – Traditional combination with holy basil

The mixture of two popular herbs of Ayurvedic medicine will not only create a unique taste experience, but the effects of both plants also complement each other and thus create an even more effective means of vitality, longevity and mental balance.

Gotu Kola + Ashwagandha

The interaction of both plants will even more effectively support cognitive functions and brain function. There is also a synergistic effect in terms of relaxation of the body and release of excess tension and stress.