Gotu Kola

• Cognitive enhancement
• Neuroprotection
• Wound healing
• Vascular health

• Anxiety reduction
• Stress management
• Skin health
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant support
• Collagen production

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) exerts its diverse therapeutic effects through multiple mechanisms, primarily attributed to its bioactive compounds, especially the triterpenoid saponins (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid) and other constituents including flavonoids, phytosterols, and phenolic compounds. In the central nervous system, Gotu Kola demonstrates neuroprotective properties by modulating several pathways. It enhances antioxidant defense mechanisms by increasing the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, thereby reducing oxidative stress and preventing neuronal damage. Research indicates that Gotu Kola’s triterpenoids can cross the blood-brain barrier and protect neurons from beta-amyloid toxicity, a key factor in Alzheimer’s disease pathology.

Additionally, it promotes neurogenesis and synaptogenesis by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, which supports the growth and differentiation of neurons and enhances synaptic plasticity. Gotu Kola also modulates neurotransmitter systems, particularly by influencing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activity, which contributes to its anxiolytic and stress-reducing effects. For vascular health, Gotu Kola strengthens blood vessel walls by stimulating the production of type I collagen in the vascular wall and improving microcirculation. It enhances venous tone and decreases capillary permeability, which explains its efficacy in treating venous insufficiency and reducing edema.

The herb also inhibits platelet aggregation and improves blood flow through its mild vasodilatory effects. In wound healing and skin health, Gotu Kola’s triterpenoids stimulate fibroblast proliferation and increase collagen synthesis, particularly type I collagen, which is essential for wound repair and tissue regeneration. It enhances the tensile strength of newly formed skin and accelerates epithelialization. The herb also exhibits significant anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, and by suppressing the activity of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS).

This anti-inflammatory action is complemented by its ability to modulate the NF-κB signaling pathway, a key regulator of inflammatory responses. Gotu Kola’s antioxidant effects extend beyond the nervous system, as it scavenges free radicals throughout the body and reduces lipid peroxidation in various tissues. It also enhances cellular antioxidant capacity by increasing the levels of endogenous antioxidants like glutathione. At the molecular level, Gotu Kola influences several signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival.

It modulates the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which regulates cellular responses to various stimuli, and affects the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathway, which plays a crucial role in cell survival and metabolism. Recent research suggests that Gotu Kola may also influence epigenetic mechanisms by modulating DNA methylation patterns and histone modifications, potentially explaining its long-term effects on gene expression and cellular function. Additionally, it has been shown to enhance mitochondrial function and biogenesis, improving cellular energy production and reducing oxidative stress generated by mitochondrial dysfunction. In the immune system, Gotu Kola exhibits immunomodulatory effects by balancing pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses, enhancing macrophage phagocytic activity, and modulating T-cell function.

This balanced approach to immune regulation contributes to its therapeutic potential in various inflammatory and immune-related conditions.

Dosage of Gotu Kola varies based on the form used and the condition being treated. For standardized extracts (typically standardized to contain 40% asiaticoside, 29-30% asiatic acid, 29-30% madecassic acid, and 1-2% madecassoside), the typical dosage range is 60-180 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses. For crude herb or dried leaf preparations, 500-1000 mg three times daily is commonly recommended.

For optimal absorption and effectiveness, Gotu Kola is best taken with meals to minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort. When used for cognitive enhancement, morning and early afternoon dosing is recommended to potentially enhance daytime cognitive function without interfering with sleep. For anxiety and stress management, doses can be timed to coincide with periods of anticipated stress or taken regularly throughout the day for general anxiety reduction.

While there is no strong evidence suggesting tolerance development with Gotu Kola, some practitioners recommend cycling the herb (e.g., 8-12 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off) for long-term use to potentially enhance effectiveness and minimize any unforeseen adverse effects from continuous use. However, for conditions like venous insufficiency or wound healing, continuous use may be more appropriate until the desired therapeutic outcome is achieved.

Standardized extracts are generally preferred for therapeutic applications due to their consistent potency and better research support. The triterpenoid content (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid) is considered the primary marker for potency and efficacy.

When selecting a supplement, look for products standardized to contain at least 40% total triterpenes or 10% asiaticoside. For enhanced absorption, taking Gotu Kola with a small amount of healthy fat may be beneficial, as some of its active compounds are fat-soluble.

The bioavailability of Gotu Kola’s active compounds varies significantly based on the specific triterpenoids and the formulation used. In general, the triterpene glycosides (asiaticoside and madecassoside) have relatively poor oral bioavailability (estimated at 20-30%) due to their large molecular size and hydrophilic nature, which limits passive diffusion across intestinal membranes. The free triterpene acids (asiatic acid and madecassic acid) show somewhat better absorption profiles (30-50% bioavailability) due to their more lipophilic nature.

Absorption: Absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine. The triterpene glycosides may undergo partial hydrolysis by intestinal beta-glucosidases to release their aglycones (asiatic acid and madecassic acid), which are then absorbed. Some absorption may also occur through active transport mechanisms.

Distribution: Once absorbed, the triterpenoids are distributed throughout the body, with evidence suggesting they can cross the blood-brain barrier, particularly the more lipophilic asiatic acid and madecassic acid. This explains their neurological and cognitive effects.

Metabolism: The triterpenoids undergo hepatic metabolism, primarily through phase I (oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis) and phase II (conjugation) reactions. Asiaticoside is metabolized to asiatic acid in the liver and intestine, while both asiatic acid and madecassic acid undergo glucuronidation and sulfation.

Elimination: The metabolites are primarily excreted through the kidneys in urine, with a smaller portion eliminated via biliary excretion in feces. The elimination half-life of the major triterpenoids ranges from 2.2-6.6 hours.

Onset Of Action: Acute effects may be noticed within 1-3 hours after ingestion, though many of the therapeutic benefits require consistent use over weeks to months.

Peak Plasma Concentration: Typically reached within 1.5-2.5 hours after oral administration for the free triterpene acids, and 2-4 hours for the glycosides.

For optimal absorption, Gotu Kola supplements are best taken with meals, particularly those containing some healthy fats. Dividing the daily dose into 2-3 administrations throughout the day may help maintain more consistent blood levels of the active compounds, given their relatively short half-lives. For cognitive enhancement, morning and early afternoon dosing is often recommended to align with daily cognitive demands.

Despite its long history of use, detailed pharmacokinetic studies of Gotu Kola in humans are limited. More research is needed to fully characterize the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion profiles of its various bioactive compounds, particularly in different populations and

when used in combination with other supplements or medications.

Additionally , the potential role of the gut microbiome in modulating the bioavailability of Gotu Kola’s active compounds warrants further investigation.

Gotu Kola has a generally favorable safety profile when used at recommended dosages for short to medium-term periods (up to 6 months). It has been used traditionally for centuries with few reported serious adverse effects. Most clinical trials report good tolerability with mild, transient side effects. However, long-term safety data beyond 6-12 months is limited, and certain populations should exercise caution or avoid use.

Common:

Uncommon:

Rare:

Most clinical studies have used doses up to 600 mg of standardized extract daily without significant adverse effects. Doses exceeding 1000 mg of standardized extract daily have not been well-studied and may increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefits. For crude herb preparations, doses above 3000 mg daily are not recommended.

Safety data for continuous use beyond 6-12 months is limited. While no specific cumulative toxicity has been identified, periodic breaks from supplementation (e.g., 1-2 weeks off after every 3-4 months of use) may be prudent for those using Gotu Kola long-term. Regular monitoring of liver function is advisable for extended use.

Elderly: Generally well-tolerated, but start with lower doses (50-75% of standard adult dose) and monitor for increased sensitivity to sedative effects or interactions with medications commonly used in this population

Liver Impairment: Use with caution; start with reduced doses (50% of standard dose) and monitor liver function; avoid in severe liver disease

Kidney Impairment: Limited data; use with caution in moderate to severe renal impairment; consider reduced dosing

Autoimmune Conditions: Theoretical concern due to immunomodulatory effects; insufficient evidence to establish safety; use with caution and medical supervision

Gotu Kola belongs to the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family, which includes carrots, celery, and parsley. Individuals with known allergies to plants in this family may have an increased risk of allergic reactions to Gotu Kola and should exercise caution.

Acute Toxicity: Animal studies show low acute toxicity with LD50 values >2000 mg/kg body weight for extracts

Subchronic Toxicity: 90-day studies in rodents show no significant adverse effects at doses equivalent to 5-10 times the human therapeutic dose

Genotoxicity: Standard genotoxicity assays (Ames test, chromosomal aberration) have generally been negative at therapeutic concentrations

Carcinogenicity: Limited long-term studies; no evidence of carcinogenic potential in available research, but comprehensive carcinogenicity testing is lacking

Reproductive Toxicity: Some animal studies suggest potential effects on fetal development; avoid during pregnancy until more safety data is available

Limited reports of significant overdose exist. Theoretical symptoms might include severe gastrointestinal distress, excessive sedation, dizziness, confusion, and potentially liver stress. Treatment would be supportive, including gastric decontamination if recently ingested, and monitoring of liver function. No specific antidote is known.

For long-term use (>3 months), periodic monitoring of liver function (every 3-6 months) is advisable. Those with pre-existing medical conditions or taking multiple medications should consult healthcare providers before use and undergo appropriate monitoring based on individual risk factors.

Classification: Dietary Supplement

Approval Status: Not FDA-approved as a drug

Regulatory Framework: Regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994

Marketing Restrictions: Cannot be marketed with claims to treat, cure, or prevent any disease

Gras Status: Not generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in conventional foods

Safety Notifications: No significant FDA safety alerts or mandatory recalls specifically for Gotu Kola as of 2024

Notes: While available as a supplement, manufacturers are responsible for ensuring safety before marketing; FDA can take action against unsafe products after they reach the market

Personal Use: Generally permitted for personal use in most countries in limited quantities (typically 1-3 months supply)

Commercial Import: Subject to dietary supplement or herbal medicine import regulations depending on the country

Customs Considerations: May be subject to inspection; documentation of identity and purity may be required for larger quantities

Wada Status: Not on the World Anti-Doping Agency Prohibited List

Testing: Not typically included in standard anti-doping screening protocols

Sports Organization Policies: No major sports organizations specifically prohibit Gotu Kola use

Notes: Athletes should exercise caution with all supplements due to potential contamination risks

Potential Changes: Increasing standardization of quality requirements globally; potential for more specific health claims in some jurisdictions based on growing clinical evidence

Research Impact: Ongoing clinical research may support expanded approved indications in countries with traditional herbal medicine registration pathways

Harmonization Efforts: International initiatives to harmonize herbal medicine regulations may affect Gotu Kola’s regulatory status across borders

Usa: Must be labeled as dietary supplement; cannot make disease claims; structure/function claims must be accompanied by FDA disclaimer

Eu: When sold as food supplement, must comply with Food Supplements Directive labeling requirements; as THMP, requires approved product information

Canada: Must display Natural Product Number (NPN), medicinal and non-medicinal ingredients, recommended use, cautions, and warnings

Common Warnings: Pregnancy/breastfeeding warning; potential medication interaction warning; discontinue before surgery warning

Low to Medium

Daily Cost Range: $0.10 – $1.50 for typical effective dose (300-600 mg standardized extract or 500-1000 mg dried herb)

Monthly Cost Range: $3 – $45 for continuous use

Annual Cost Range: $36 – $540 for continuous use

Notes: Costs vary significantly based on form, standardization level, brand reputation, and purchase volume. Bulk herbs and non-standardized preparations are typically at the lower end of the range, while highly standardized extracts and premium brands are at the higher end.

Cost Effectiveness Rating: 4 out of 5

Cost Vs Benefit Assessment: Gotu Kola offers good to excellent value for its cognitive enhancement, wound healing, and vascular health benefits. The relatively low cost, especially for basic forms, combined with its well-established safety profile and moderate to strong evidence for several applications, makes it one of the more cost-effective herbal supplements available. For cognitive enhancement, the cost-to-benefit ratio is particularly favorable compared to many synthetic nootropics or premium herbal formulations.

Comparison To Alternatives: For Venous Insufficiency: Significantly less expensive than prescription medications like pentoxifylline or micronized purified flavonoid fraction, with comparable efficacy for mild to moderate cases, For Cognitive Enhancement: Much less expensive than prescription cognitive enhancers, though direct comparative efficacy studies are limited, For Wound Healing: Comparable or lower cost than many advanced wound care products, particularly for minor wounds and prevention of excessive scarring, Vs Ginkgo Biloba: Similar or slightly lower cost for cognitive enhancement, with complementary but different mechanisms of action, Vs Bacopa Monnieri: Comparable cost for cognitive enhancement; Bacopa has more human clinical trials for memory specifically, while Gotu Kola has broader applications, Vs Horse Chestnut: Similar cost range for venous conditions; often used complementarily

Cost Saving Strategies: Purchasing bulk dried herb for tea preparation offers the lowest cost per dose, though standardization and convenience are sacrificed, Buying larger quantities of standardized extracts (e.g., 120-count bottles vs. 60-count) typically reduces cost per dose by 15-30%, Subscription services through online retailers often provide 10-15% discounts for regular purchases, Growing your own Gotu Kola is possible in suitable climates (USDA zones 9-11) and can significantly reduce costs for long-term users

Price Stability: Relatively stable pricing over the past decade with modest inflation-related increases; occasional fluctuations due to harvest conditions in major producing regions

Availability Trends: Increasing availability in Western markets as interest in traditional Ayurvedic and TCM herbs grows

Market Competition: Growing number of manufacturers has helped maintain competitive pricing, particularly for basic forms

Premium Segment Growth: Emerging market for enhanced delivery systems (liposomal, water-soluble) commanding premium prices, targeting the cognitive enhancement and anti-aging markets

Conventional Insurance: Generally not covered by conventional health insurance in most countries

Flexible Spending Accounts: May be eligible for FSA/HSA reimbursement in the US if prescribed by a healthcare provider for a specific medical condition

Integrative Medicine Plans: Some specialized integrative medicine insurance plans or health sharing programs may provide partial coverage

Exceptions: In Germany and some European countries, physician-prescribed herbal medicines may receive partial reimbursement for approved indications

Triterpenoid Content: When comparing products, cost per mg of total triterpenoids or specific markers (asiaticoside, madecassoside) provides a more accurate value assessment than simply cost per gram of product

Standardized Extract Value: A 300 mg capsule of extract standardized to 40% triterpenoids provides 120 mg of active compounds, while a 500 mg capsule of raw herb at 2% natural triterpenoid content provides only 10 mg

Calculation Example: For a product costing $20 for 60 capsules of 300 mg standardized to 40% triterpenoids: Cost per mg of triterpenoids = $20 ÷ (60 × 300 mg × 0.40) = $0.0028 per mg of triterpenoids

Preventive Value: Potential cost savings from preventive use for cognitive maintenance and vascular health, though difficult to quantify precisely

Sustainability Concerns: Growing commercial demand has raised concerns about wild harvesting sustainability, which may impact future pricing if cultivation doesn’t keep pace

Research Impact: Ongoing clinical research may increase demand and potentially affect pricing, particularly if new applications receive stronger scientific validation

Dried Herb: 1-2 years when properly stored in airtight containers away from light, heat, and moisture

Powdered Herb: 6-12 months; more susceptible to oxidation and degradation due to increased surface area

Standardized Extracts: 2-3 years for capsules and tablets; stability enhanced by standardization process and protective packaging

Tinctures: 3-5 years; alcohol content provides preservative effect and extends shelf life

Topical Preparations: 1-2 years unopened; 6-12 months after opening, depending on preservative system and packaging

Temperature: Store between 15-25°C (59-77°F). Avoid temperature extremes; high temperatures accelerate degradation of triterpenoids, while freezing may affect physical stability of liquid preparations.

Humidity: Maintain low humidity environment (<60% relative humidity). Gotu Kola and its extracts can absorb moisture, leading to degradation of active compounds and potential microbial growth.

Light Exposure: Protect from light, especially UV light, which can catalyze oxidation of active compounds. Store in opaque or amber containers.

Air Exposure: Minimize exposure to oxygen, which can oxidize triterpenoids and other active compounds. Use airtight containers and consider oxygen absorbers for bulk storage.

Container Recommendations: Glass or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers are preferred for long-term storage. Avoid polyvinyl chloride (PVC) containers, which may interact with plant compounds.

Primary Degradation Compounds: Oxidation products of asiatic acid and madecassic acid; hydrolysis products of asiaticoside and madecassoside

Safety Implications: Most degradation products have not been associated with significant toxicity, but may result in reduced efficacy

Detection Methods: HPLC with UV or mass spectrometric detection can identify and quantify both parent compounds and degradation products

Excipients: Certain excipients can enhance stability, particularly antioxidants (e.g., vitamin E, rosemary extract) for protection against oxidation

Processing Techniques: Microencapsulation, coating, or liposomal formulation can enhance stability by protecting active compounds from environmental factors

Packaging Considerations: Blister packs provide better protection than bottles for solid dosage forms; airless pumps better than jars for creams and gels

Asiaticoside And Madecassoside: Generally more stable to oxidation than their aglycones but more susceptible to hydrolysis

Asiatic Acid And Madecassic Acid: More susceptible to oxidation but resistant to hydrolysis; often the first compounds to show degradation in stability testing

Flavonoids And Phenolics: Secondary compounds that contribute to antioxidant activity; generally less stable than triterpenoids and may degrade more rapidly

Dried Extracts: If moisture has caused caking, gentle breaking apart in a dry environment may restore usability; significant clumping or color changes may indicate degradation

Liquid Preparations: If separation occurs, gentle shaking may restore homogeneity; precipitation or significant color changes may indicate degradation and the product should not be used

For travel, consider transferring only the needed amount to a small, airtight container rather than exposing the entire supply to variable conditions. Solid dosage forms (tablets, capsules) maintain better stability during travel than liquids or powders. Avoid leaving supplements in hot vehicles or checked luggage that may experience temperature extremes.

Natural Sources

Cultivation Methods

Processing Methods

Quality Considerations

Commercial Forms

Reputable Suppliers

Storage Recommendations

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) has a rich and extensive history of traditional use spanning thousands of years across multiple medical systems, particularly in Asia. In Ayurvedic medicine, where it is known as ‘Brahmi’ or ‘Mandukaparni,’ Gotu Kola has been used for at least 3,000 years and is mentioned in ancient texts including the Sushruta Samhita (circa 6th century BCE). Ayurvedic practitioners classified it as a ‘medhya rasayana,’ an herb that enhances memory and longevity, and used it to treat a wide range of conditions including skin disorders, nervous system ailments, and to promote mental clarity and spiritual development. It was considered one of the primary herbs for balancing the pitta dosha (fire element) and was believed to enhance all three doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha).

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is known as ‘Ji Xue Cao’ (literally ‘gathering blood herb’), Gotu Kola has been used for over 2,000 years. Chinese physicians primarily employed it to clear heat, promote diuresis, detoxify the body, and heal wounds. It was particularly valued for treating fevers, urinary tract infections, and skin conditions including leprosy. TCM practitioners also recognized its cooling properties and used it to balance excess heat in the liver and to promote longevity.

In traditional Indonesian medicine, Gotu Kola (known locally as ‘Pegagan’) has been used for centuries to enhance memory, treat fever, improve circulation, and heal wounds. Indonesian mothers traditionally gave Gotu Kola to children to enhance their intelligence and mental development. In Sri Lankan traditional medicine (Sinhala medicine), the herb (known as ‘Gotukola’) has been a staple in the diet and medical system for generations, used both as a medicinal herb and a common leafy vegetable. Sri Lankan practitioners used it to purify blood, promote wound healing, and improve mental function.

Throughout Southeast Asia, Gotu Kola gained a reputation as a longevity herb, with legends of ancient sages living for extraordinary lengths of time by consuming it regularly. This led to its nickname ‘the herb of longevity’ or ‘fountain of youth.’ The herb’s association with the elephant’s memory and longevity (elephants are known to eat the plant in the wild) further cemented its reputation for enhancing cognitive function and extending lifespan. In folk medicine across various cultures, Gotu Kola was commonly applied topically as a poultice for wounds, burns, and skin conditions. It was also prepared as teas, decoctions, and fresh juices for internal use.

Traditional preparation methods varied by region but often involved either consuming the fresh leaves, creating dried powders, or extracting the herb in water, milk, ghee (clarified butter), or alcohol. The introduction of Gotu Kola to Western medicine began in the early 20th century when European researchers began investigating its wound-healing properties. French scientists in the 1930s and 1940s conducted some of the first modern research on the herb, particularly for treating leprosy and skin conditions. By the mid-20th century, standardized extracts of Centella asiatica, particularly the total triterpenoid fraction (TTFCA), began to be used in European clinical settings for wound healing and vascular conditions.

The herb gained significant attention in Western herbal medicine during the 1960s and 1970s as interest in traditional medical systems increased. Modern scientific research began to validate many of its traditional uses, particularly for wound healing, venous insufficiency, and cognitive enhancement. Today, Gotu Kola continues to be used in its traditional contexts while also being incorporated into modern integrative medicine practices worldwide. It has transitioned from primarily traditional use to becoming a well-researched herbal medicine with applications supported by both centuries of empirical observation and modern scientific investigation.

The herb represents a fascinating example of traditional wisdom that has withstood the test of time and continues to find relevance in contemporary healthcare approaches.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) has a moderate to strong body of scientific evidence supporting several of its traditional uses, particularly for wound healing, venous insufficiency, and cognitive function. The research includes numerous in vitro and animal studies, as well as a growing number of human clinical trials, though many are of moderate quality or have methodological limitations. The strongest evidence exists for its wound healing and venous applications, with emerging but promising evidence for its cognitive and neuroprotective effects.

The active triterpenoid compounds have been well-characterized, and their mechanisms of action are increasingly understood at the molecular level.

Long-term safety and efficacy studies (>12 months) are lacking, Limited research on potential interactions with commonly prescribed medications, Insufficient standardization across studies regarding extract composition and dosing, Need for larger, well-designed clinical trials in diverse populations, Limited research on comparative efficacy versus conventional treatments for specific conditions, Incomplete understanding of the relative contributions of individual compounds to the overall therapeutic effects

There is growing consensus among researchers and clinicians that Gotu Kola has legitimate therapeutic potential, particularly for cognitive enhancement, wound healing, and venous conditions. The herb is generally recognized as safe

when used appropriately, though experts emphasize the importance of using standardized extracts for therapeutic purposes.

While traditional uses span a wide range of conditions, experts typically focus on the applications with stronger scientific support.

There is particular interest in its potential as a neuroprotective agent for age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions, though most experts agree that larger clinical trials are needed before making definitive recommendations for

these applications.

Research on Gotu Kola has evolved significantly over the past several decades. Early studies (1970s-1990s) focused primarily on its wound healing and dermatological applications, with particular attention to its effects on collagen synthesis and fibroblast proliferation. The late 1990s and early 2000s saw increased interest in its vascular effects, particularly for chronic venous insufficiency and microangiopathy. Since the 2010s, there has been a notable shift toward investigating its neurological and cognitive effects, reflecting growing interest in natural approaches to cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection.

Recent research has increasingly focused on elucidating molecular mechanisms and identifying specific active compounds responsible for various therapeutic effects, with particular attention to the triterpenoid constituents.