Gotu Kola Benefits

Gotu kola is the common name of a small herbaceous plant, known as Centella asiatica. It is a member of the family, Mackinlayaceae, and is also known by the names of Indian pennywort, pennywort and Indian ginseng. Gotu kola or Indian pennywort can be widely found in India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Northern Australia and several other parts of Asia. It has a long history of being used as a medicinal plant in both Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese medicine.

Gotu Kola Health Benefits
The main active compounds found in gotu kola or Indian pennywort are, saponins and triterpenoids. It is mainly regarded as a tonic for the nervous system, and is known to possess antibacterial, anti-viral, diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known for its adaptogenic properties.

• It is known to be a mild adaptogen, as it can enhance the body's resistance to stress, anxiety and fatigue.
• Indian pennywort can improve the functioning of the nervous system. It can help to improve memory and concentration. It can provide relief in mood disorders and certain nervous disorders like, epilepsy.
• In the past, it was mainly popular as a remedy for conditions like, scleroderma, psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, which are associated with swelling of the connective tissues.
• It can accelerate wound healing. This benefit can be attributed to the presence of 'triterpenoids' in this herb. These compounds are found to be effective in increasing blood supply to affected area to promote faster healing.
• It can prove beneficial in several skin conditions like, psoriasis, scars and stretch marks.
• It can also help to reduce fever, as well as congestion associated with upper respiratory tract infections or cold.
• It can have a positive effect on blood circulation, which is why it can help to reduce swelling caused by venous insufficiency. People having varicose veins can also benefit from the use of this herb.
• It can reduce the appearance of cellulite by toning the blood vessels, improving blood circulation and by strengthening the connective tissues.
• Apart from these, it is renowned as a herbal remedy for insomnia, muscle pain, joint stiffness, depression, asthma, tonsillitis, edema or fluid retention, diarrhea, stomach ache, stomach ulcer, indigestion, eczema, high blood pressure, blood diseases and urinary tract infections.

Side Effects of Gotu Kola
Like other herbs and herbal supplements, gotu kola and its extracts can cause a few side effects, if not used with caution. Excessive and prolonged use of this herb can affect the liver and therefore, people with liver disease should not use this herb. Serious side effects of this herb are rare. Nevertheless, its excessive use can cause upset stomach, nausea, headaches, drowsiness and dizziness. One of the compounds found in it, known as 'asiaticoside' has been found to be associated with tumor growth in mice. Therefore, people having precancerous or cancerous skin lesions are usually advised to avoid this herbal medicine. In addition to these, it can interact with certain medications such as, diabetes medications, cholesterol lowering drugs, sedatives and diuretics. So, individuals using these medications should not take it without consulting their health care provider.

As far as the side effects of this herbal medicine are concerned, these can be avoided by using it with caution and in moderation. The best way to avoid the side effects associated with this herb is to take it only in the appropriate dosage, and under the supervision of a physician or health care provider.