Gotu Kola, Benefits and Uses

The gotu kola plant is native to the warm regions of India, Eastern Europe, Madagascar, Sri Lanka and South Africa. It is typically found in swampy tropical areas. Gotu kola has several benefits, but it should not be taken by pregnant women or women who are nursing.

The gotu kola plant is a small creeping vine with green leaves and red flowers. Topical ointments, teas, extracts, poultices and supplemental pills are all derived from its leaves. The gotu kola plant has been used in herbal pharmacology for hundreds of years.

Traditionally gotu kola has been a large part of Asian medicine. People of Sri Lanka have used gotu kola to treat skin diseases, promote mental activity, and to treat high blood pressure, arthritis, fever and nervous disorders. Indian medical practitioners, called Ayurveda doctors, have also used gotu kola to treat bronchitis, water retention and coughs with little to no side effects.

Saponins are the active constituents in gotu kola. In essence they are the active ingredient of the herb which are responsible for its medicinal properties. Saponins are known to prevent large scar formation on wounds, as well as promote wound healing. These saponins are not generally the cause of any gotu kola side effects.

Dr. Alan R. Gaby, author of the Natural Pharmacy states that there have been several trials showing that gotu kola extract improved the healing of infected wounds that have not reached the bone. He goes on to say that French studies have also concluded that gotu kola, when applied topically, can help with the healing of burns and wounds. Gotu kola extract may also help patients with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition where blood circulation is poor between the feet, legs and heart.

Gotu kola may be made into a tea by adding 1 to 2 teaspoons (5 to 10 grams) into about 2/3 cup (150 ml) of boiling water. The tea should steep for at least 10 minutes. This tea can be taken daily. Extract from the gotu kola plant may also be taken. It is usually taken in the amount of ½ to 1 teaspoons (3-5ml) daily. Supplemental pill dosage is typically 60 mg one to two times a day. While gotu kola side effects are rare, it is important to consult a physician before taking any supplemental medicine.

References:

That Natural Pharmacy, Dr. Alan R. Gaby and the Healthnotes Team; 2006

Natural Medicinal Herbs; Gotu Kola