
Gotu Kola (lat. Centella asiatica) is so powerful that it has been named "the fountain of youth" in Chinese medicine.
Gotu Kola prolongs life. This was confirmed by the life of a famous herbalist Li Ching Yun who lived to see 256 birthdays.
Gotu Kola grows mostly in the Himalayans. Yogis use it as food during their meditation because it activates the crown chakra and helps in balancing the left and right brain hemisphere.
Apart from China, Gotu Kola is known in India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Middle and South Africa.
One of the Most Important Ayurvedic Plant
Gotu Kola is one of the most important Ayurvedic plants.
It acts as rejuvenator for pitta, prevents the growth of vatta (it eases the nerves) and calms kapha dosha.
It can be used for balancing all three doshas, but it is especially useful for treating Pitta disorders.
Gotu Kola’s leaves are used the most and it can be prepared in various ways.
It can be used as tonic, cream, lotion or as tablets. Gotu Kola cools the body because of its sour, hot and sweet taste.
The Brain Food
First of all, Gotu Kola is the best plant for brain cells and the entire nervous system. It nourishes them and rejuvenates.
It fastens the blood flow while supplying the tissue and organs with oxygen.
Enhanced blood circulation in the brain increases mental energy, clarity, concentration and memory.
Gotu Kola contains triterpenoid compounds, called asiaticosides which are engaged in transmitting nerve impulses within brain cortex.
It harmonizes neurotransmitters in the brain which enhances circulation of nerve (electrochemical) impulses.
Gotu Kola balances and coordinates mind functions, improving learning abilities and giving better memory.
It is used in Ayurveda for treating anxiety and epilepsy.
Traditional Application and Modern Researches
Gotu Kola is known as powerful aphrodisiac and important remedy for strengthening the spirit.
Traditionally it has been used for blood purification.
Combined with Gingko which improves circulation (especially in the brain), it has been used to prevent all forms of dementia (including old age senility and forgetfulness).
30 years ago, scientific research conducted in the West on children suffering from brain damages, showed that children who used Gotu Kola for 12 weeks were more attentive and focused.
Clinically it has been proven that it helps people with ADHD (attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder) and memory loss.
Contemporary research confirms that this plant can be a natural remedy for students and disciples in exam preparation and learning because it increases concentration, ability to solve issues and memory.
Many see Gotu Kola as hope for patients with Alzheimer disease, because it gives the possibility of gaining back certain parts of lost memory.
Anti-Stress Remedy
Gotu Kola is a chemically complex plant, also known as adaptogen because it improves the functioning of immunity system, strengthens adrenal glands and helps reducing stress.
Its calming effect is linked with reduced production of cortisols and other stress hormones. It reduces emotional and mental tension, nervousness, fear and anxiety.
As Gotu Kola strengthens adrenal glands, it also enhances endurance and energy levels in persons who consume it.
Solution for Skin Problems
Gotu Kola has a strong potential in healing almost all skin problems. This plant has an antibiotic effect and quickly heals wounds and scarves.
Active ingredients present in the plant accelerate and increase the production of collagen in bones, cartilage and connective tissue. They are responsible for quicker and better wound healing process.
Because of the effect on collagen synthesis, this plant affects skin elasticity, firmness and prevents wrinkles.
It improves face complexion because it stimulates liver and kidneys to extract poison.
Gotu Kola is beneficial for connective tissues, has a strong anti-inflammatory effect and stimulates normal skin function.
It helps with burns, keloids, (overgrowth of granulation tissue) and wounds, including surgical incisions and skin ulcers.
It strengthens the cells that help in building blood vessel walls and improves blood circulation, which can be helpful in treating varicose veins.
Other Beneficial Effects
Gotu Kola is considered as one of the most powerful antioxidants that successfully prevents tumors and other degenerative diseases.
It helps in removing bad habits and all kinds of addictions (alcoholism, drug, smoking and sugar addiction).
It helps with chronic fatigue especially when combined with Ashwaganda.
Gotu Kola slows down aging process, prolongs lifespan and gives strength in old age.
Healing Benefits of Gotu Kola:
- Stimulates tissue circulation and oxygen supply
- Improves concentration, learning and memory
- Helps with old age dementia and forgetfulness
- Strengthens immunity
- Prevents stress, insomnia and depression
- Fastens wound healing and stimulates skin regeneration
- A natural aphrodisiac
- Helps with alcoholism, drug and smoking addictions
- Rejuvenates and prolongs lifespan
Note
In Ayurveda, Gotu Kola and Brahmi are often used as synonyms. Even though they are two different plants, they have a similar effect on the body.
You can distinguish them by the Latin name written of the product’s label. Latin name for Gotu Kola is Centella Asiatica and for Brahmi is Bacopa Monnieri.
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