As a result of the stress-filled lives we lead today, we’re nowhere close to following healthy habits. Fighting Gen Z challenges requires modern solutions and sufficient nutrition to boost immunity, health, and encourage brain development.
If you’re looking for a dietary supplement that can offer all these benefits, then Gotu Kola powder may be the perfect solution for you. Indian Ayurveda and several clinical studies show that Gotu Kola extracts can boost your immunity, cognitive development, and overall health with a daily dose.
Here, we’ll be discussing exactly what Gotu Kola powder is and how it can help improve your life and prepare your body to take on every challenge.
What is Gotu Kola?
Gotu Kola, also known as Centella Asiatica (CA) scientifically, is one of the most renowned medicinal plants in the Parsley family. This amazing herb is very popular in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine due to its countless medical benefits.
Did you know that these medicines have been around for thousands of years across India, China, Indonesia, and their neighboring countries? The plant is also found in Japan, Sri Lanka, and South Africa and will usually grow in or around a body of water. Its fan-shaped leaves don’t have a distinctive smell or taste.
It also bears small oval fruits and white & purple-pink flowers. All of its above-ground parts, including its leaves and stems, are used to make supplement powders, tablets, and topical treatments to prevent edema, joint pain, periodontitis, and other ailments.
Constituents of Gotu Kola
The medicinal effects of Gotu Kola can be accredited to its constituents which consist primarily of saponins, Asiatic acid, Asiaticoside, Brahmi acid, Brahmoside, along with a small fraction of Centellose, centelloside, and Madecassoside. It’s rich in antioxidant and anti-tumor properties.
Each of these constituents come with benefits that have been proven by clinical trials and research.
For example, Brahmi acid and Brahmoside help improve cognitive function, saponins boost collagen production and reduce signs of aging, and Asiatic acid is effective for scar management.
Benefits of Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola extract offers an array of benefits for your brain, body, and overall health.
Here are some of the benefits of Gotu Kola:
1. Improves Brain Function
One of the primary benefits of Gotu Kola is its positive effect on cognitive ability and development. In a 2016 research conducted on patients who survived a stroke, Gotu Kola was observed to be as effective as Folic acid in helping restore subjects’ cognitive abilities and improving their mental clarity.
In fact, in another study conducted on young and old mice, Gotu Kola encouraged memory retention and enhanced learning skills. It does so by encouraging the release of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein which nourishes your brain cells.
It also triggers the release of nerve growth factor (NGF), which protects the existing nerve cells and helps in producing new ones. These two together can enhance brain development and help improve the cognitive abilities of your brain.
READ MORE: Top Brain Foods for a Powerful Energy Boost
2. Might Help Fight Off Alzheimer’s
Another benefit of Gotu Kola is its effectiveness in protecting your brain from Alzheimer’s disease. In a 2012 study conducted on a group of mice, Gotu Kola effectively reduced the behavioral abnormalities in the mice that displayed symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
The supplement was also very effective in protecting the brain cells from toxicity and abnormalities, which further helped improve the memory retention of the mice. The driving factor behind Gotu Kola’s efficacy in the treatment of memory loss and improvement in retention is the presence of Brahmic acid.
Brahmic acid, rich in Brahmic extracts, works to protect your brain cells, keeping them healthy. Moreover, it encourages the production of hormones and chemicals that help with memory retention.
3. Improves Skin Health & Fights off Aging
Gotu Kola has been known to play a key role in maintaining skin health and reducing signs of aging. One of the primary constituents of Gotu Kola is saponin which is known to enhance the production of collagen and increase its strength.
Collagen is a primary building block of skin and is instrumental in helping your skin retain its youthful glow and elasticity. With improved elasticity, your skin doesn’t wrinkle easily, and you’re protected from under-eye wrinkles, fine lines, and sagginess for years to come.
4. Helps with Reducing Stretch Marks
The number one cause of stretch marks is the skin’s reduced elasticity which is triggered by depleting collagen production. Because it contains Saponin, an active instigator of collagen production, Gotu Kola acts as a powerful solution for dealing with stretch marks.
A 2013 study confirmed Gotu Kola’s efficacy for the healing of stretch marks and prevention of the formation of new ones.
It was shown that Gotu Kola intake activates a mechanism that includes acidic mucopolysaccharides and collagen synthesis. It also promotes fibroblast proliferation, mitotic activity, and intracellular fibronectin content.
Lastly, it improves the tensile strength of the newly generated skin cells thus reducing the chances of new stretch marks appearing in the future.
5. Helps with Healing Scars
With the recent developments in the field of aesthetic and cosmetic surgery, the healing of wounds and scar management has become a popular topic of interest among researchers. Recent studies show that Gotu Kola is very effective in managing and reducing scars.
It was primarily confirmed after a 2015 study on rats and the effects it had on their scars. The biggest reason behind Gotu Kola’s effect on the management and healing of scars is its powerful combination of saponin and Asiatic acid.
In another research study, it was found that extracts from the Centella Asiatica plant (Gotu Kola) include Madecassic acid, Asiatic acid, and Asiaticoside, all of which have scar healing properties.
Once the scar has healed, the saponin in Gotu Kola encourages collagen production to heal the mark permanently.
6. Protects Against Brain Damage
The number one cause of cognitive degeneration is damaged and worn-out brain cells. Brain cells can be damaged for several reasons, including poisoning, infection, neurological disease, or excess deficiency of oxygen.
Research has recognized Gotu Kola to be an active protector of brain cells against damage. In a study, rats were subjected to excess Aluminum, which led to cognitive impairment and mito-oxidative damage.
The effects included memory loss and a rise in caspase-3 activity. The Aluminum extracts began to accumulate in the cerebral cortex of the rats’ brains, leading to several brain dysfunctions.
However, after being administered Centella Asiatica (CA), they started showing significant memory improvement and also built a resistance which helped decrease the aluminum and caspase-3 concentrations, acetylcholinesterase activity, and alteration of the mitochondrial enzyme.
7. Improves Circulation
Research has acknowledged Gotu Kola’s effectiveness in improving blood circulation, which means that it helps improve blood flow through blood vessels and reduces blood clots.
It can also help treat several health conditions, including ankle edema since it reduces fluid retention. This also comes in handy during long-distance flights during which it can help prevent ankle swelling.
CAUTION: Despite opting for herbal remedies, the treatment of edema or evaluation of treatment even to connective tissues should only be done by a professional health care provider.
Top 6 Gotu Kola Herbal Supplements
Now that you know more about Gotu Kola and its benefits, let’s look at some of the finest Gotu Kola supplements available on the market today.
1. Banyan Botanicals Brahmi/Gotu Kola Powder
Since Gotu Kola Powder is a natural blood purifier, it rejuvenates your skin and hair. Its calming effects on your mind also reduce stress, enhance sleep quality, and improve cognitive abilities.
Each product by Banyan Botanicals, including their Gotu Kola Powder, is made of organic herbs certified by the USDA and sourced using sustainable techniques.
Moreover, their products are thoroughly tested by third-party labs to ensure you get the most out of the Gotu Kola Powder without any adverse effects.
Note: Your healthcare provider should regulate the dosage.
Product Details:
Ingredients: Certified Organic Brahmi/Gotu Kola leaf powder (Centella Asiatica).
2. Starwest Botanicals Organic Gotu Kola Herb Powder
This particular product is manufactured keeping all the present cGMP guidelines in mind and is certified by the USDA, which authenticates its genuineness.
If you store it well in a cool, dark area, you can expect the product to last for at least 12 months.
Product Details:
Ingredient: Gotu Kola Powder (Centella Asiatica)
3. Gotu Kola 10:1 Extract Powder
Rich in antioxidants and saponins, it builds your body’s immunity against various diseases and helps you stay healthy. The product is made with a 10:1 concentration which means ten units of herbs have been processed to prepare 1 unit of this powder. This makes this supplement highly potent.
Also, being vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, it’s suitable for everyone regardless of their dietary preferences or restrictions. Moreover, the product comes packed in a safety-sealed, food-grade resealable stand-up bag that enhances its shelf life and longevity.
Product Description
Ingredients: Gotu Kola Powder, Maltodextrin (5% of overall powder)
4. MB Herbals Gotu Kola Powder
The powder specializes in reducing aging symptoms and instigates healthy hair growth. It also improves various cognitive functions like memory retention and soothes your mood, too! The brand prioritizes customer satisfaction, and that’s why they have a no questions asked full-refund policy on the off chance that you’re dissatisfied with the product.
Product Details:
Ingredient: Organic Gotu Kola Powder (Centella Asiatica)
5. Mi Nature USDA Organic Gotu Kola Powder
This is one of the most effective brain nootropics. It enhances intelligence, learning skills, creativity, memory, and various other cognitive functions. It also reduces aging signs and prevents the formation of early wrinkles and fine lines, all thanks to accelerated collagen production. So make sure you flaunt your youthful glow and beat your age!
The natural properties of Gotu Kola powder infused in this powder will minimize the greying of your hair and promote overall healthy hair growth.
For the best experience and quality, the brand manufactures all its products only in FDA-registered facilities in India. With hygienic packing, pure ingredients, and mindful manufacturing, this is one of the most reliable products out there!
Product Details:
Ingredient: Organic Gotu Kola Powder (Centella Asiatica)
6. Tattvik Natural Gotu Kola Powder
The best part? This product by Tattvik Natural is plant-based, non-GMO, and cruelty-free, making it sustainable and suitable for everyone. It also comes in 9 different options. So, if you’re looking for an effective and high-quality Gotu Kola powder from a reliable brand at an affordable price, this one is definitely for you.
Product Description:
Ingredient: Amla, Tulsi, Gotu Kola, Hibiscus, Shatavari
Conclusion
There has been endless research that proves the many health benefits of Gotu Kola powder.
From fostering higher intelligence, improving memory, and minimizing stress to rejuvenating skin and reducing hair loss, Gotu Kola powder has countless benefits. Since it’s Ayurvedic, you can enjoy all these benefits without any fear of negative side effects that often stem from the use of artificial chemicals.
Each of the brands mentioned above is reliable and guarantees a good experience. Remember to take the proper doses of these supplements, and you’ll surely improve your health and the overall quality of your life!
References
- Farhana, Kun Marisa et al. “Effectiveness of Gotu Kola Extract 750 mg and 1000 mg Compared with Folic Acid 3 mg in Improving Vascular Cognitive Impairment after Stroke.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM vol. 2016 (2016): 2795915. doi:10.1155/2016/2795915
- Gray, Nora E et al. “Centella asiatica modulates antioxidant and mitochondrial pathways and improves cognitive function in mice.” Journal of ethnopharmacology vol. 180 (2016): 78-86. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2016.01.013
- Soumyanath, Amala et al. “Centella asiatica Extract Improves Behavioral Deficits in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease: Investigation of a Possible Mechanism of Action.” International Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease: vol. 2012 (2012): 381974. doi:10.1155/2012/381974
- Kim, Young Soo et al. “Therapeutic effect of total ginseng saponin on skin wound healing.” Journal of ginseng research vol. 35,3 (2011): 360-7. doi:10.5142/jgr.2011.35.3.360
- Bylka, Wiesława et al. “Centella asiatica in cosmetology.” Postepy dermatologii i alergologii vol. 30,1 (2013): 46-9. doi:10.5114/pdia.2013.33378
- Widgerow, A D et al. “New innovations in scar management.” Aesthetic plastic surgery vol. 24,3 (2000): 227-34. doi:10.1007/s002660010038
- Prakash, Atish, and Anil Kumar. “Mitoprotective effect of Centella asiatica against aluminum-induced neurotoxicity in rats: possible relevance to its anti-oxidant and anti-apoptosis mechanism.” Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology vol. 34,8 (2013): 1403-9. doi:10.1007/s10072-012-1252-1
- Cesarone, M R et al. “Flight microangiopathy in medium- to long-distance flights: prevention of edema and microcirculation alterations with total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica.” Angiology vol. 52 Suppl 2 (2001): S33-7.
