• Origin: India
• Scientific Name: Centella Asiatica
• Other name: Pennywort, Indian Pennywort, Indian Ginseng, Horse-hoof
• Grass, Gotu Cola, Gota kola
• Part used: Leaves
• Properties: Nervine, tonic, alternative, antipyretic, diuretic,
• Organ it affects: Brain, nerves, kidneys, bladder, heart, and circulation

Gotu kola is a perennial herbaceous creeper that grows to a height of twenty inches, with fan-shaped leaves. It is a very common medicinal plant throughout India and the tropical countries. Gotu kola has remarkable rejuvenating properties similar to those of fo-ti and ginseng. It is one of the best herbs for the nerves and brain.

Active component: The active component of Gotu kola is triterpenes. These substances are believed to enhance the production of the tough, fibrous protein known as collagen, which is found in cartilage, bones, and connective tissues. Triterpenes also help to keep blood vessels strong and assist in producing essential neurotransmitters, the brain's chemical messengers.

Preparation and Dosage:

• Infusion: Steep 5-15 minutes. Take 3 oz. 3 times daily.
• Tincture: take 15-30 drops 3 times daily.
• Fluid extract: Take ½ -1 tsp. 3 times daily

Medicinal Benefits:

• Gotu kola is popular as a nerve tonic to promote relaxation, energy and to enhance memory. These qualities make Gotu kola an excellent herb for children with A.D.D. because it has a stimulating effect on the brain that increases one's ability to focus while having a soothing and relaxing effect on an overactive nervous system. It is also often used after mental breakdowns, and used regularly, can prevent nervous breakdown.

• Gotu kola's calming properties is suited for overcoming insomnia.
• Gotu kola neutralizes blood acids and cools the blood, thus making it beneficial for fever.
• Gotu kola is good for the heart and liver function.
• Gotu kola is used topically for wound healing, burns, post operative scarring because it affects various stages of tissue development, including keratinization (the process of replacing skin after sores or ulcers), the synthesis of collagen (the first step in tissue repair), the stimulation of hair and nail growth, and support for the repair of cartilage.
• Gotu kola is an excellent vasodilator and tones the blood vessels allowing more circulation to problem cellulite areas. Cellulite occurs when connective tissues under the skin that hold deep-level fat cells break down and are no longer able to hold fat. Gotu kola contains compounds that increase glycosaminoglycan production in such a way that fat cells are not further displaced.
• Gotu kola has been used successfully to treat phlebitis (inflammation of the veins), varicose veins, as well as leg cramps, swelling of the legs, and "heaviness" or tingling in the legs.
• Gotu kola has been used orally for muscle pain and joint stiffness.
• Gotu kola is used as an aphrodisiac.