Benefits of Gotu Kola

The Herb Gotu Kola

(For the benefits of gotu kola, scroll down)

Gotu kola is a thin, creeping plant that grows in swampy areas of Indi and Sri Lanka. Its fan-shaped leaves are the size of an old British penny.

You may know it by one of its more common names:

Indian pennywort
marsh penny
water pennywort

In India, people believe gotu kola to be one of the most rejuvenating herbs. In the traditional Indian medicine practice, Ayurveda, gotu kola herb is used heavily for revitalizing nerve and brain cells.

Many herbalists and holistic practitioners refer to gotu kola as “food for the brain”. It has the power to clear and calm the mind.

Even children with A.D.D. (attention deficit disorder) can enjoy these benefits---an increased ability to focus and a relaxed nervous system.

Gotu Kola Facts

But gotu kola is unrelated to the kola nut. It contains no caffeine. The active ingredient in gotu kola is called asiaticoside.

In addition to its help with brain functioning, asiaticosides can also heal scarred and neglected skin, varicose veins, and promote the formation of healthy skin.

Benefits of Gotu Kola

Here’s a quick review of common uses:

• prevents mental fatigue

• enhances concentration

• improves memory

• decreases depression

• increases sex drive

• aids circulation in the legs (combats varicose veins)

Gotu Kola Warnings

There are no side effects of gotu kola if you take it properly and in moderation. Pregnant and nursing women should consult their doctor.

Precaution: If you apply gotu kola topically (directly to your skin), you might get a rash.

Gotu Kola in a Supplement

The standardized extract form provides the strongest benefits. It contains the highest concentration of the active ingredient asiaticosides.

Gotu kola extract should be standardized to contain 10 percent asiaticosides; look for this on the label.

It's best to get gotu kola extract in a multi-nutrient supplement. Many vitamins, minerals, and herbs work together synergistically---they make each other more effective. For example, gotu kola works with olive leaf and aloe vera to treat skin conditions.

For gotu kola...

Dietary Supplements Guide recommends Total Balance (best value)