Gotu kola has been a part of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Gotu kola contains no caffeine, but it is an excellent source of vitamin K.
Gotu kola contains triterpenoids, which are known to be the active compounds. Gotu Kola is known to have a beneficial effect on circulation, a calming effect and can help support the central nervous system. It can also boost peripheral and brain circulation. Some believe that it can increase memory power. It is known to help relax the central nervous system and at the same time stimulate the brain, resulting in an increase in focus.
Gotu kola can benefit peripheral circulation. The result is a decrease in varicose veins, poor blood circulation in the legs, leg cramps and legs dwellings. It can also limit vein hardening and help to boost the flow of blood in a study completed in the 1980s. It is also known for its ability to heal wounds.
The Gotu Kola is an herb which has been mainly used by mostly Indians and Chinese to treat several illnesses and disorders. It has been effective in treating many skin disorders such as psoriasis, leprosy and also for healing wounds. Mental clarity is believed to be improved on consuming this herb. “The fountain of life” gets its nickname as a result of a belief that the ancient Chinese used this herb and lived up to 200 years. Syphilis, Gonorrhoea, stomach ulcers, hepatitis, diarrhoea, asthma and fever are some of the other ailments that Gotu Kola is effective against.
The plant is a native of India and some parts of Indonesia and China and thrives around watery areas. Belonging to the family of Parsleys, the green leaves are fan shaped and have no odour or taste. The stem as well as the root of the plant can be used for medicinal purposes. Gotu Kola is being increasingly used in the treatment of vein related disorders such as varicose veins and venous insufficiency. In venous insufficiency, when the blood accumulates in the cells and spills out due to improper circulation, the leg swells. Gotu Kola may be helpful in reducing the swelling and improving blood circulation thus relieving the patient of pain. Leakage is also considerably reduced on consumption of Gotu Kola herb in patients suffering from varicose veins. These results have been confirmed by Ultrasound tests. For those suffering from stiff limbs, Gotu Kola tablets or capsules reduces the stiffness and to some extent improves the mobility of the limbs.
Triterpenoids present in Gotu Kola help in healing wounds and burns besides strengthening the skin and boost the amount of antioxidants in the wounds accelerating the healing process. They also prevent the formation of stretch marks and are used in the post surgery periods. Most of the topical solutions for healing wounds contain a large proportion of Gotu Kola as their main ingredient. Gotu Kola may also be used for treating insomnia as it acts as a mild sedative. This treatment however has not been supported by any medical literature.
Gotu Kola herb is usually dried first before administering. Tinctures and syrups of the herb may also be available and the dosage is not advised for those below the age of eighteen. The amount of dosage will vary with the form in which the herb is taken. Gotu Kola is also available in the market as marsh pennywort, Brahmi and centella asiatica.
