Gotu Kola (Pennywort or Centella asiatica) is claimed to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Evidence suggests it helps heal burns and improves blood flow. Does it have any other health benefits and side effects? Read on to see what the science says.<\/p>\n
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Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) is one of the alleged longevity herbs used in the Tai-Chi tradition. This herb is also used in Ayurvedic and Chinese Traditional Medicine.<\/p>\n
The plant itself may soak up heavy metals from the soil. As such, ensuring the source you are consuming is organic, or at least doesn’t contain dangerous heavy metals, is important. Copper accumulates in its roots; manganese and lead accumulate in the leaves [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n Gotu kola supplements have not been approved by the FDA for medical use. Supplements generally lack solid clinical research. Regulations set manufacturing standards for them but don’t guarantee that they’re safe or effective. Speak with your doctor before supplementing.<\/p>\n Gotu Kola contains [R<\/a>, R<\/a>, R<\/a>]:<\/p>\n According to some evidence, applying gotu kola to second-degree burns may decrease the time that it takes for burns to heal [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n Asiaticasoide, found in Gotu Kola, increased skin strength and skin collagen to better heal wounds in pigs and rats [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n It also increased SOD, catalase<\/a>, glutathione, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C in skin damage in rats [R<\/a>, R<\/a>].<\/p>\n Asiatic acid, also in Gotu Kola, increased collagen production, further benefiting the healing of wounds [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n Similar results have been found for Gotu Kola in regards to improving the healing of burns [R<\/a>, R<\/a>].<\/p>\n Further, Gotu Kola has been traditionally used for stretch marks, raised scars, inflammation (phlebitis and cellulite), and leprosy. Evidence does not back up this practice [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n Oral gotu kola supplements and extracts (Centellase) may improve blood flow and reduce swelling in people with poor blood circulation in the legs (venous insufficiency) after 4-8 weeks, according to a recent systematic review of eight clinical studies [R<\/a>].<\/p>\n The terpenes in Gotu Kola may increase collagen production, which might lower blood pressure and help with swelling (edema) [R<\/a>].<\/p>\nConstituents<\/span><\/h3>\n
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Alleged Health Benefits of Gotu Kola<\/span><\/h2>\n
Possibly Effective For:<\/span><\/h3>\n
1) Burns<\/span><\/h3>\n
2) Poor Circulation & Vein Problems<\/span><\/h3>\n