Health benefits of eating this natural plant (Gotu kola)
Gotu kola (Centella asiatica, Apiaceae) has been a legendary herb in most parts of the world for over two thousand years, where it’s considered to be one of the best herbs for promoting clarity, focus, and a peaceful, calm nature.......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>
Daily ingestion of gotu kola keeps the mind fresh and promotes longevity and vitality. In most parts of the country gotu kola has long been credited as the source of elephants’ long life spans and exceptional memories.
In addition to its effects on the brain, contemporary herbalists use gotu kola as a wound healer, diuretic, antioxidant, nerve tonic, and antibacterial remedy.
Benefits of Gotu Kola
It Promotes Relaxation and Alertness
Natural healers and researchers debate whether gotu kola is a true adaptogen (a tonic herb that helps balance the body by supporting its ability to deal with physical and emotional stress). Tonic herbs are traditionally taken on a daily basis over a long period of time, as opposed to herbs that are only used on an as-needed basis.
In any case, gotu kola has a long tradition of use as a tonic herb for promoting longevity, vitality, and equanimity. I find it to be one of the most useful herbs to help people feel energized, alert, and relaxed. Gotu kola is one of the safest remedies for easing stress and anxiety. See the accompanying tea recipe for inspiration on combining gotu kola with similar tonic herbs.
A Traditional Remedy for Wounds and Injuries
Gotu kola has long been used to heal wounds, both internally and topically. Once famous for its use in treating leprosy, gotu kola is used today by herbalists to treat burns, minimize scarring, heal wounds, and promote tissue repair after injury or surgery. It appears to promote wound healing through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial qualities, in addition to stimulating keratinization (an integral process of nail and h hair growth) and epidermal repair (the epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin).
One in vitro study which used an isolated constituent, asiaticoside, demonstrated the proliferation of fibroblasts, which are specialized cells responsible for producing and maintaining the structure of connective tissue. Fibroblasts are integral to wound healing.
Along with gotu kola’s wound-healing properties, it’s also applied topically to mollify a variety of skin conditions, including insect bites, seborrheic dermatitis, cold sores, eczema, psoriasis, and dry, irritated skin. I like to infuse the dry herb into sesame or coconut oil, which can be rubbed into the scalp to calm the mind, deepen sleep, and promote hair growth.
