Gotu
Kola
Centella
asiatica
This diminutive
ground cover is a member of the Parsley family, the Apiaceae. It
originally came to us from the Indian subcontinent, where it grows
widespread in sunny, wet places like drainage and irrigation ditches.
Here, it can be grown as an annual or, in a heated greenhouse or
at warmer latitudes, as a perennial. It is harvested for its leaf,
which resembles a little green seashell with scalloped edges.
Elemental associations:
Air
Phytochemistry: Organic acids, phytosterols, flavonoids, volatile
oil, tannin
Actions: Vascular tonic, collagen production stimulant, mild anti-inflammatory
and relaxant, antiulcer, GABA-minetic
Specific systems: Circulatory, connective tissue, digestive, nervous
This plant should be used fresh, either as the fresh leaf of as
a fresh-plant extract as its organic acids, partly responsible for
its effects, can degrade significantly during drying. Beware also
of non-organic sources, as the harvesting environment may be questionable
and quite polluted.
Gotu Kola is chiefly a remedy of the circulation, improving venous
and capillary integrity and thus helping to contain chronic inflammation
and aiding in circulatory imbalances, such as cold hands and feet
or decreased mental function due to deficient circulation. Additionally,
it has a mild sedative and anti-anxiety effect that can also help
improve focus and mental performance.
It also speeds the recovery of soft-tissue injuries where collagen
production is required (tendonitis, strains and sprains) while helping
to contain inflammation.
Finally, it seems to have a direct ulcer-healing effect, though
more research is required for this particular use.
Indications:
Circulatory deficiency, soft tissue injuries (esp. if chronic),
ulcers
Contraindications: Avoid during pregnancy and lactation, and use
caution combining it with other sedating / anti-anxiety / antidepressant
herbs or drugs.
Preparation/Dosage: Best eaten fresh, 1-2 leaves per day as a tonic
and 3-5 leaves per day for injuries. Fresh tincture, prepared at
40% and 1:5, can be taken in doses of 30-60 drops (1-2ml) 1-3 times
a day depending on the condition. Except for the conditions listed
under contraindications, it is a generally safe herb to use and
overdoses have not been reported.
