Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Gotu Kola Herb Extract

Also known as: Gotu kola, Indian pennywort, Asiatic pennywort, *Centella asiatica* (L.) Urban

Overview

Gotu kola is a herbaceous perennial plant native to Asia and Africa, specifically utilized in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. The plant is known for its rich content of triterpenoids, including asiaticoside and madecassoside, which are primarily attributed to its health benefits. Commonly used for enhancing cognitive function, promoting wound healing, and improving skin health, Gotu kola possesses significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. The current research maturity level of Gotu kola is moderate, with some promising clinical trials, although robust systematic reviews and meta-analyses are limited. The quality of available evidence remains variable, necessitating further studies to fully validate its efficacy and safety.

Benefits

Gotu kola has been associated with several evidence-based benefits. Primary effects include potential improvements in working memory and cognitive function, particularly among elderly individuals, with some studies demonstrating cognitive enhancements median dosages of 750 mg/day. It also plays a notable role in wound healing, supported by clinical evidence that highlights its impact on collagen synthesis and reduced inflammation. Additionally, Gotu kola may present secondary benefits for conditions like venous insufficiency. While some benefits might be observed within a few months of consistent use, more research is required to quantify the effect sizes and clarify population-specific outcomes.

How it works

The medicinal properties of Gotu kola are largely attributed to its triterpenoid compounds, which exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These compounds interact with various biological pathways, influencing signaling mechanisms associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. By enhancing circulation and modulating the nervous system, Gotu kola may improve cognitive functions such as working memory, as well as promote skin health through accelerated wound healing processes.

Side effects

Gotu kola is generally considered safe for short-term use; however, long-term safety data is limited. Common side effects include nausea and stomach pain when taken orally, while topical applications may result in itchiness and redness. Rarely, hepatotoxicity has been reported in a few cases, prompting caution for individuals with pre-existing liver conditions. Possible drug interactions include sedatives and medications with hepatotoxic potential, and it is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Special populations, including those with liver disease or those scheduled for surgery, should exercise caution when considering Gotu kola supplementation.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for Gotu kola typically ranges from 60 to 450 mg per day to achieve cognitive benefits, with an optimal dosage of around 750 mg/day noted in some studies on cognitive function. A maximum safe dose has not been firmly established, but caution is advised for doses beyond 450 mg/day. There are no specific timing recommendations for ingestion, and the supplement comes in various forms, such as extracts, creams, and gels—usage should be tailored based on the intended effects. Data on absorption factors remain limited, and no cofactors have been identified as necessary for its efficacy.

FAQs

Can Gotu kola be taken during pregnancy?

Gotu kola is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.

Is Gotu kola safe to use with other medications?

While generally safe, Gotu kola may interact with sedatives and hepatotoxic medications; consult a healthcare provider.

How long does it take to notice benefits from Gotu kola?

Cognitive benefits may take a few months to manifest, while wound healing effects can vary.

Should I take Gotu kola at a specific time of day?

There are no specific timing recommendations; follow the product instructions.

Is Gotu kola a cure for cognitive disorders?

No, Gotu kola should not be considered a cure for serious cognitive disorders; more research is needed to confirm its benefits.

Research Sources

https://www.e-jer.org/journal/view.php?number=2013600960 – A meta-analysis focusing on cognitive function found some evidence for improved working memory, yet highlighted insufficient overall cognitive enhancement.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26602573/ – This double-blind randomized controlled trial demonstrated cognitive improvements in working memory and event-related potentials in elderly participants taking Gotu kola extract for two months.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.568032/full – The study discussed Gotu kola's effectiveness in wound healing through enhanced collagen synthesis and reduced inflammation, supporting its traditional use in herbal medicine.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-753/gotu-kola – WebMD provides a comprehensive overview of Gotu kola's uses, benefits, and potential side effects, underscoring its applications in cognitive and skin health.
https://www.alzdiscovery.org/uploads/cognitive_vitality_media/Centella-asiatica-Cognitive-Vitality-For-Researchers.pdf – This resource outlines various studies related to Centella asiatica, emphasizing the need for further research while noting its potential cognitive benefits.