Gotu Kola (Mandukaparni)
Gotu Kola is a creeping, herbaceous, perennial plant that grows in marshy areas in tropical and subtropical regions. It has small, fan-shaped leaves with scalloped edges and small, pink or white flowers. The plant is known for its medicinal properties, particularly in Ayurvedic medicine.
Botanical name: Centella asiatica. Also known as: Gotu Kola, Indian Pennywort, Brahmi, Mandukaparni, Manduki, Tvashtri, Divya, Mahaushadhi), Asiatic Pennywort, Spadeleaf, Coinwort, Brahma Manduki, Kodangal, Karivana, Saraswati Aku, Vauari, Darduracchada, Manimuni, Jholkhuri, Thalkuri, Thankuni, Khadbhrammi, Ondelaga, Brahmi Soppu, Vallarai, Marsh Penny, Marshpenny.
Properties
Rejuvenating, nervine tonic, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, adaptogenic.
Dosage
Typically 1-2 grams of dried herb or 5-10 ml of tincture per day.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Bitter, Astringent
- Virya: Cooling
- Vipaka: Pungent
Benefits
- Enhances cognitive function and memory
- Promotes wound healing and skin regeneration
- Reduces anxiety and stress
- Improves circulation
- Supports nervous system health
Traditional uses
- Cognitive enhancement
- Wound healing and dermatological conditions
- Anxiety and stress management
- Circulatory disorders
- Nervous system disorders
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (due to lack of sufficient data)
- Individuals with very low blood pressure
Side effects
- Mild gastrointestinal upset
- Drowsiness
- Headache
Interactions
- May interact with sedative medications, potentially increasing drowsiness.
- May interact with blood-thinning medications.
Clinical evidence
Gotu Kola has shown promising results in improving cognitive function, promoting wound healing, and reducing anxiety in clinical studies. However, more large-scale, high-quality trials are needed to confirm these benefits.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Medhya (intellect promoter)
- Rasayana (rejuvenator)
- Varnya (improves complexion)
- Vranashodhana (wound cleanser)
- Vranaropana (wound healer)
- Stambhana (astringent)
- Medohara (reduces fat)
Classical clinical indications
- Memory loss
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Skin disorders (eczema, psoriasis)
- Wounds and ulcers
- Rheumatism
- Urinary tract infections
Frequently asked questions
What is Gotu Kola?
Gotu Kola is a creeping, herbaceous, perennial plant that grows in marshy areas in tropical and subtropical regions. It has small, fan-shaped leaves with scalloped edges and small, pink or white flowers. The plant is known for its medicinal properties, particularly in Ayurvedic medicine.
What are the benefits of Gotu Kola?
Enhances cognitive function and memory. Promotes wound healing and skin regeneration. Reduces anxiety and stress
How is Gotu Kola used in Ayurveda?
Cognitive enhancement