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Gotu Kola Whole Herb Extract

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

Overview

Gotu kola, scientifically known as *Centella asiatica*, is a plant in the parsley family traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese medicine. The above-ground parts of the plant are utilized for their medicinal properties. It is commonly used to address various conditions, including cognitive function, wound healing, venous insufficiency, and skin conditions like acne and psoriasis. The primary components of Gotu kola include triterpenes such as asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties. Research on Gotu kola is ongoing, with systematic reviews and meta-analyses available, but more studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety. The quality of available evidence varies, with some studies showing promising results, but overall, the quality is moderate due to the limited number of high-quality RCTs and the need for more robust evidence.

Benefits

Gotu kola has several evidence-based benefits. A meta-analysis suggests it may improve working memory, though evidence for overall cognitive function is insufficient. It can improve blood circulation and reduce swelling in people with poor blood circulation in the legs when taken for 4-8 weeks. Applying Gotu kola to second-degree burns can decrease healing time. Additionally, a systematic review indicates that Gotu kola may be effective in treating acne vulgaris, though more research is needed. There is limited evidence suggesting cognitive benefits in older adults, particularly when combined with other interventions. Effect sizes for cognitive improvements are generally small to medium, with benefits observed over 4-12 weeks.

How it works

Gotu kola's active components, such as triterpenes, act through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic mechanisms. These compounds may decrease inflammation, reduce blood pressure in veins, and increase collagen production, which is beneficial for wound healing. It interacts with the cardiovascular system by improving blood circulation and reducing swelling. It also affects the nervous system by potentially enhancing cognitive function and neuroprotection. The triterpenes in Gotu kola target various molecular pathways involved in inflammation and oxidative stress. Formulating Gotu kola extracts into phytosomes can enhance their absorption and bioavailability, particularly for polar phytochemical components.

Side effects

Gotu kola is generally considered safe when used for up to 12 months orally and up to 10 weeks topically, though long-term safety data is limited. Common side effects include nausea and stomach pain when taken orally. Uncommon side effects include itchiness and redness when applied topically. Rare side effects include potential liver damage, especially in individuals with pre-existing liver disease. It may cause excessive sleepiness when combined with medications used during and after surgery. It should be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient reliable information. Individuals with liver disease should also avoid it. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using Gotu kola due to lack of safety data. Individuals with liver disease should avoid Gotu kola to prevent exacerbation of liver problems.

Dosage

Typical oral doses of Gotu kola range from 60-450 mg per day for 4-12 months. For venous insufficiency, 4-8 weeks of treatment with Gotu kola or Centellase extract is recommended. There is no established maximum safe dose, but long-term use beyond 12 months is not well studied. No specific timing recommendations are available, but it is generally taken once or twice daily. Phytosome formulations may enhance bioavailability and absorption. Formulation into phytosomes can improve absorption, especially for polar compounds. No specific cofactors are required for the efficacy of Gotu kola.

FAQs

Is Gotu kola safe?

Gotu kola is generally safe for short-term use but should be avoided in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and in individuals with liver disease due to potential risks and lack of safety data.

When should I take Gotu kola?

There are no specific timing recommendations, but it is typically taken once or twice daily. Consistency is key to observing potential benefits over a period of several weeks.

What results can I expect from taking Gotu kola?

Improvements in working memory, venous insufficiency, and wound healing can be expected within 4-12 weeks of consistent use, based on available research.

Does Gotu kola significantly improve overall cognitive function?

Gotu kola is not proven to improve overall cognitive function significantly when used alone, contrary to some claims. Its primary cognitive benefit appears to be in working memory.

Research Sources

https://www.e-jer.org/journal/view.php?number=2013600960 – A meta-analysis and systematic review published in the *European Journal of Exercise Science and Technology* found that Gotu kola may improve working memory. However, the review also noted that there is insufficient evidence to support its benefits in overall cognitive function, highlighting the need for more comprehensive studies.
https://biomedres.us/pdfs/BJSTR.MS.ID.009114.pdf – A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the *Biomedical Research Journal* evaluated the efficacy of *Centella asiatica* in treating acne vulgaris. The study found promising results, suggesting that Gotu kola may be an effective treatment for acne, but the authors emphasized the need for further research to confirm these findings.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-753/gotu-kola – A review on WebMD, based on various studies, indicates that Gotu kola can improve blood circulation and reduce swelling in people with poor blood circulation in the legs. Additionally, it notes that Gotu kola can decrease the healing time for second-degree burns, citing evidence from clinical studies.
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3628010 – This paper discusses the use of phytosomes to enhance the absorption and bioavailability of Gotu kola extracts, particularly for polar phytochemical components. It highlights how this formulation can improve the delivery and effectiveness of Gotu kola's active compounds.
https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/gotu_kola.htm – This review provides an overview of Gotu kola, including its uses for venous insufficiency and wound healing. It also mentions the importance of using Gotu kola or a specific extract (Centellase) for 4-8 weeks to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling in people with poor blood circulation in the legs.