Gotu Kola
Centella asiatica
also known as centella
Moderate
A small wetland herb used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Modern research is most consistent for wound healing, vein support, and skin repair — making it more of a connective-tissue herb than the brain tonic some marketing suggests.
- Supports wound healing through its effect on collagen and connective tissue
- Eases symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency — heavy, swollen legs and varicose veins
- Topical preparations may improve the appearance of scars, including stretch marks
- Mild calming effect in traditional use
- Some evidence for supporting cognitive function, though research is small
- Long traditional use as a tonic for connective tissue, including skin, joints, and blood vessels
Rare reports of liver injury — stop and seek medical attention if jaundice or right-side abdominal pain develop
Use caution with sedative medications
May raise blood sugar in some people, lower it in others — monitor with diabetes medication
May increase cholesterol slightly with long-term high doses
Skip during pregnancy and nursing — limited safety data
Limit continuous use to about six weeks at a time
Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs · EMA Herbal Medicinal Product Monographs · American Botanical Council HerbMedPro
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