Gotu Kola: Benefits, Uses & Dosage

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a powerful nervine and rejuvenative herb with a bitter taste, cooling energy, and sweet post-digestive effect. It balances all three doshas (VPK=) and works on all tissue-elements except the reproductive tissue, primarily affecting blood, marrow, and nerve. Its main systems of action are the nervous, circulatory, and digestive systems.

Gotu Kola is a close relative of Brahmi (Hydrocotyle asiatica) and is often used in the West as a substitute, functioning quite well in this role though with better diuretic and slightly less strong nervine properties. The herb increases intelligence, longevity, and memory. Its key actions include nervine, rejuvenative, alterative, febrifuge, and diuretic properties.

Key indications include nervous disorders, epilepsy, senility, premature aging, hair loss, and chronic and obstinate skin conditions. It may aggravate itching, and in large doses may cause headaches or temporary loss of consciousness. Preparations include infusion (hot or cold), decoction, milk decoction, powder at 250 to 500 mg, medicated ghee, and medicated oil.

• Alterative
• diuretic
• febrifuge
• nervine
• rejuvenative

Forms: Infusion, decoction, powder, ghee , oil Note: Similar use as Bacopa Monniera

• Large doses may cause headaches, spaciness, or itching

The leaf of the gotu kola herb looks like the two hemispheres of the brain. Gotu kola acts upon the brain tissue. It is a very effective aid for developing memory and intelligence. It stimulates the brain tissues, thereby expanding understanding and comprehension.

Gotu kola relieves stress and calms the mind. In Sanskrit, it is called brahmi (Brahma means Cosmic Consciousness). This herb will help the flow of energy in the brain between the right and left hemispheres.

Gotu kola also is a decongestant and is used to alleviate sinus problems. To cleanse mucus, use the powder form: take one-fourth teaspoonful with honey, morning and evening.

Gotu kola's essential action is upon the mind and higher consciousness. One also may take it in the form of a tea, one cup at bedtime, to promote sound sleep and peaceful, alert awakening.