Gotu Kola extract
Also known as: Gotu Kola, Indian pennywort, Bua-bok, Gotu Kola Extract, Centella asiatica
Overview
Gotu Kola Extract is derived from the leaves of *Centella asiatica*, a medicinal plant with a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. It is primarily recognized for its potential in cognitive enhancement, wound healing, and skin health, with emerging research exploring its role in mood and stress management. The extract's therapeutic effects are attributed to its bioactive triterpenes, particularly asiaticoside and madecassoside. Research on Gotu Kola is moderately mature, encompassing several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, though the strength of clinical evidence can vary depending on the specific indication. It is commonly available as a herbal supplement and botanical extract.
Benefits
Gotu Kola offers several evidence-based benefits. A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that supplementation may improve working memory and functional mobility in elderly populations, showing significant improvements in timed up and go tests and walking speed (p < 0.01). This suggests a clinically relevant functional benefit for cognitive and physical performance in this demographic. Another 2022 systematic review concluded that *Centella asiatica* enhances wound healing, likely by increasing angiogenesis and collagen synthesis, with clinical trials supporting its efficacy in diabetic and burn wounds. Preclinical evidence from a 2024 study in rats demonstrated that standardized Gotu Kola extract reduced stress-induced suicidal behavior and cortisol levels, suggesting potential anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, though human trials are needed to confirm these effects. Clinical data also support its use for improving skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and collagen-promoting effects, although high-quality RCTs in this area are still limited.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Gotu Kola involves its bioactive triterpenes, such as asiaticoside and madecassoside. These compounds stimulate collagen type I synthesis and fibroblast proliferation, which are crucial processes for tissue repair, wound healing, and maintaining skin integrity. They also promote angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, further aiding in tissue regeneration. Neuroprotective effects are thought to stem from antioxidant activity and the modulation of neurotransmitters involved in memory and mood regulation. Additionally, Gotu Kola appears to reduce plasma cortisol levels, indicating an influence on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which plays a central role in the body's stress response. This HPA axis modulation may contribute to its potential anxiolytic and antidepressant effects.
Side effects
Gotu Kola extract is generally considered safe with a low incidence of adverse effects in clinical trials. The most commonly reported side effects, though rare (less than 5%), include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea or stomach upset, and occasional allergic reactions, which may manifest as skin rash or itching. There have been no consistently reported significant drug interactions or contraindications in controlled studies. However, due to limited research, safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been well established, and its use in these populations is generally not recommended without medical supervision. Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Apiaceae family (e.g., carrots, celery) should exercise caution. While generally well-tolerated, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.
Dosage
Effective dosages of standardized Gotu Kola extract in clinical studies typically range from 750 mg to 1000 mg daily. For cognitive and mobility benefits, research suggests that supplementation within this range, particularly when combined with physical exercise, can lead to enhanced effects. For topical applications related to wound healing, formulations are standardized based on their triterpene content, and specific dosage guidelines vary by product. Gotu Kola can be taken with or without food, and its absorption may be enhanced by formulations that include bioavailability enhancers, though no specific cofactors are strictly required for efficacy. It is important to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations or a healthcare professional's guidance, as individual needs and product concentrations can vary. There are no widely established upper limits for Gotu Kola, but exceeding recommended doses is not advised.
FAQs
Is Gotu Kola effective for memory?
Evidence supports modest improvements in working memory and functional mobility in elderly adults after Gotu Kola supplementation, particularly when combined with exercise.
Can it help with stress or mood?
Preclinical animal studies suggest potential anxiolytic and antidepressant benefits by reducing stress-induced behaviors and cortisol levels, but human randomized controlled trials are needed for confirmation.
Is Gotu Kola safe for long-term use?
Available data indicate a good safety profile with low incidence of side effects. However, comprehensive long-term studies on continuous use are still limited.
What are the main benefits of Gotu Kola?
The primary benefits include cognitive enhancement (especially working memory), improved wound healing, and potential benefits for skin health and mood/stress management.
Are there any significant drug interactions?
No significant drug interactions have been consistently reported in controlled studies, but it's always advisable to consult a healthcare professional if taking other medications.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9650315/ – This 2022 meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving elderly subjects found that Gotu Kola supplementation significantly improved working memory and functional mobility, as measured by timed up and go tests and walking speed (p < 0.01). The study highlighted clinically relevant functional improvements, though it noted limitations such as small sample sizes and relatively short study durations (around 8 weeks).
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8956065/ – This 2022 systematic review analyzed clinical trials on wound healing, concluding that *Centella asiatica* effectively enhances angiogenesis and collagen synthesis. The review found consistent evidence supporting improved healing outcomes in various wound types, including diabetic and burn wounds, despite some heterogeneity among the included studies.
- https://biomedpharmajournal.org/vol17no2/standardized-extract-from-the-gotu-kola-leaves-improves-suicidal-behavior-in-stressed-rats-subjected-to-social-isolation/ – This 2024 preclinical study demonstrated that a standardized Gotu Kola extract reduced stress-induced suicidal behavior and lowered cortisol levels in rats subjected to social isolation. The findings suggest potential neuropsychological benefits, including anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, though these results require confirmation through human clinical trials.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.568032/full – This 2020 review summarized the pharmacological effects of Gotu Kola's triterpenes, providing a comprehensive overview of their anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and wound-healing mechanisms. It also referenced clinical evidence supporting effective daily doses ranging from 750 mg to 1000 mg for various applications.
Supplements Containing Gotu Kola extract
Recommended Articles
Herbal Boosters & COVID-19 Antivirals: Safe Mix?
Herbal supplements may interact with COVID-19 antivirals, requiring careful consideration and further research.
Top Immune Support Ingredients: What Works?
Vitamin D, zinc, and echinacea are key ingredients in immune support supplements, backed by scientific evidence.
Top Anti-Inflammatory Supplement Ingredients
Curcumin, omega-3 fatty acids, CBD, and Vitamin D are proven to effectively reduce chronic inflammation.
Best Supplements for Cortisol Reduction: A Scientific Guide
Adaptogens like Ashwagandha and Rhodiola, along with Phosphatidylserine, are effective in reducing cortisol levels, supported by scientific studies.