Gotu kola – properties, dosage, opinions. Side effects of gotu kola

Proven content

Gotu kola is a plant popularly known as Asiatic Pennywort, as well as Centella or Asiatic Honeysuckle. In its natural state, it grows in southern Asia and southern and central regions of Africa, America and Australia. It is valued for having a positive effect on the body, especially the brain. What are the health properties of gotu kola? How can it be used? Is it safe? You will find all the information below.

Gotu kola – what is it?

Gotu kola, also known by its scientific name as C.Asian entella or colloquially as a pennywort. In antiquity, Gotu kola was known primarily for its health properties (it improves brain function, relieves anxiety, heals infections and is valued, among others, as a longevity herb).

Today, gotu kola is one of the most common ingredients in skin care products, thanks to a powerful combination of amino acids, beta-carotene, fatty acids, and phytochemicals – everything skin needs to fight the signs of aging and protect itself from environmental stressors.

Gotu kola is rich in triternen saponins – a compound that helps keep the skin toned and plump – and is also an excellent source of phytonutrients called flavonoids that act as antioxidants and fight free radicals. It supports the formation of collagen and skin tissue, which is crucial for maintaining the elasticity and youthful glow of the skin.

Another benefit that gotu kola is best known for is its ability to improve blood circulation. It accelerates the healing process of the skin and is effective in the treatment of varicose veins, broken capillaries and cellulite. Gotu kola is included in, among others Anti Cellulite – Panaseus dietary supplement, which you can buy at an attractive price on Medonet Market.

In the past, gotu kola was also used to treat syphilis, hepatitis, stomach ulcers, mental fatigue, epilepsy, diarrhea, fever, and asthma. Currently in the United States and Europe gotu kola is most often used in the treatment of varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, the condition where blood pooling in the legs. It is also used in ointments to treat psoriasis and help heal minor wounds.

According to a review published in International Food Research Journal, 100 grams of fresh gotu kola provides the following nutrients and meets the following recommended nutritional requirements (RDI):

1. calcium: 171 milligrams (17% of the RDI)
2. iron: 5,6 milligrams (31% of the RDI)
3. Potassium: 391 milligrams (11% of the RDI)
4. vitamin A: 442 micrograms (49% of the RDI),
5. vitamin C: 48,5 milligrams (81% of the RDI),
6. vitamin B2: 0,19 milligrams (9% of the RDI),

Gotu kola is also a good source of dietary fiber, providing 8% of the RDI for women and 5% of the RDI for men.

Also read: Antioxidants – what is their role in the body?

Gotu kola on the nervous system

Gotu kola activates the release of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) – it is a protein that stimulates the formation of new brain cells. In addition, it contributes to the development of dendrites.

These are parts of the neuron that carry signals received from other neurons through synapses to the cell body. Therefore, it improves communication between brain cells, and hence – the overall plasticity of the brain. Research has shown that gotu kola has a stimulating effect on NGF – nerve growth factor – and protects the brain against neurotoxins and free radicals.

In addition, Asian pennywort extracts affect the central nervous system, having a calming, antidepressant, anticonvulsant and analgesic effect. Research shows that gotu kola also has a selective toxic effect on cancer cells.

Read also: Dirty air harms nerve cells

Gotu kola and Alzheimer’s disease

Gotu kola affects the ability to improve memory and nervous function, which gives it the potential to treat Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, one study in mice found that got kola extract had a positive effect on behavioral disturbance in mice with Alzheimer’s disease.

In laboratory and animal studies, it has also been shown that the qua cola extract has little effect on protecting brain cells from toxicity.

On the other hand, in preclinical models of Alzheimer’s disease, extracts of cola lowered beta-amyloid levels and oxidative stress, prevented the contraction of neuronal processes, and protected against beta-amyloid toxicity and behavioral disturbances. Treatment in models of cognitive decline Centella asiatica significantly improved memory performance, lowered markers of cell death, increased antioxidant defense, and reversed mitochondrial deficits.

Nevertheless, more research is needed to determine exactly how got kola can be used to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

Also check: What should the diet for Alzheimer’s disease look like?

Gotu kola – anti-depressant properties

The authors of a 2016 study found that gotu kola has an anxiolytic effect in male mice deprived of sleep for 72 hours. Prolonged sleep deprivation can cause anxiety, oxidative damage, and inflammation in the nervous system.

Mice given gotu kola for five consecutive days prior to sleep deprivation experienced significantly less anxiety behavior. In addition, they showed better locomotor activity and less oxidative damage.

The positive effect of gotu kola on the work of the brain can also make it an effective antidepressant drug. A review of research conducted in 2016 confirms these findings, partly because of a study of 33 people with generalized anxiety disorder.

Participants were asked to take gotu kola instead of antidepressants for 60 days. They have independently reported a reduction in stress, anxiety and depression as a result of using gotu kola.

Another study discussed in the review looked at the effects of goo-kola in severely depressed rats. The herbal preparation had a positive effect on some components of behavioral depression, including body weight, body temperature, and heart rate.

Given the ability of gotu kola to relieve anxiety, stress and depression, this herb can also be used to treat the insomnia that sometimes accompanies the above conditions. Some people consider this herbal remedy a safe alternative to prescription medications used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders.

Gotu cola is included in the Hanoju brand dietary supplement. The preparation, thanks to natural active ingredients, supports the nervous system and has a calming effect. You can buy the Gotu Cola 400 mg dietary supplement at medonetmarket.pl.

Gotu kola and healing of wounds and skin lesions

Gotu kola contains substances called triterpenoids. In animal studies and in the laboratory, these compounds appear to be helpful in healing wounds. Moreover, some studies suggest that triterpenoids strengthen the skin and increase the blood supply to the wound area.

Based on these findings, gotu kola is either applied to the skin or applied topically for minor burns, psoriasis, prevention of postoperative scarring, and the prevention or reduction of stretch marks. Gotu kola can be found in many wound healing creams.

See also: Why are beer drinkers more prone to psoriasis?

Gotu kola – application

Gotu kola has anti-inflammatory properties that may be useful in treating arthritis. One study in arthritis in rats found that oral administration of goto kola reduced joint inflammation, erosion of cartilage and bone. Its antioxidant effect also had a positive effect on the immune system.

According to one 2017 study, gotu kola can be used to suppress the toxic side effects of the antibiotic isoniazid. Isoniazid is used to treat and prevent tuberculosis. Rats were given 100 mg of gotu kola for 30 days before being given an antibiotic. These rats experienced less toxicity overall. In addition, rats that experienced liver and kidney toxicity recovered to near-normal levels after administration of the cola.

Gotu kola can also reduce the appearance of stretch marks. The terpenoids in got kola are believed to increase the production of collagen in the body. This can help prevent new stretch marks from forming as well as help heal existing ones. Thanks to the properties strengthening the scalp and accelerating hair growth, gotu kola has also been used in hair cosmetics such as strengthening Orientana conditioner for hair with ginger and lemongrass, or Orientana conditioner facilitating detangling with jasmine and almond, as well as Ayurvedic therapy for hair loss Orientana.

Also check: Tuberculosis has outsmarted scientists again

Gotu kola – dosage

The daily dose of gotu kola depends mainly on 2 factors: the type of gotu kola supplements you take (some forms are more potent than others) and the state you are taking.

Below is a list of the different types of gotu kola supplements and their recommended dosages:

1. dried leaves of gotu kola

Dried gotu kola leaves are usually soaked and prepared as tea. To make a cup of gotu kola tea, add 1-2 teaspoons (5 to 10 grams) to 2/3 cup of boiling water and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. The suggested consumption is 1 to 3 cups (750 ml) per day,

1. tincture (liquid drops)

Tinctures have very different strengths. Therefore, it is important to strictly follow the dosage instructions on the tincture label. Usually, about 20-40 drops of the tincture are used several times a day. Liquid extracts often contain alcohol, but some are also non-alcoholic (based on vegetable glycerin).

1. capsules with dried powder of gotu kola

Gotu kola capsules contain dried powder from gotu kola leaves (and sometimes also stems). The typical amount of ready kola in 1 capsule is from 300 to 500 mg, and the general recommended use is 2 capsules a day,

1. capsules with a standardized extract

These capsules contain gotu kola powder standardized to the percentage of the active ingredient (such as asiatitides and madecassosides). Doses for standardized gotu kola extract range from 50 mg to 250 mg taken 2 to 3 times a day,

1. topical application (ointment or gel)

You can buy an already prepared cream or gotu kola gel, which, apart from gotu kola, usually contains other active ingredients.

If you prefer ointment containing only gotu kola, you can prepare it yourself. To do this, mix the leaves of gotu kola in boiling water (1: 1 ratio – 1 cup of herb in 1 cup of boiling water). Allow the mixture to infuse for 10 to 15 minutes.

Then strain the mixture and add the cornstarch to make a thick paste. Gently apply the ointment to the affected area of ​​skin and let it dry. Leave it on for about 10 minutes and then rinse it off with clean water.

To prepare the essential oil, the leaves of gotu kola are usually boiled in water (1: 4 ratio – 1 cup of herb to 4 cups of water) until the water volume is halved. Separate the leaves from the mixture before adding vegetable oil such as coconut, olive, jojoba, or sesame oil. Simmer slowly until all the water has evaporated. This way you will get what is known as herbal oil.

This oil can then be used to treat itchy and irritated skin, as an anti-aging oil, or to improve the appearance of cellulite.

Gotu kola – reviews

Gotu kola has very positive feedback from users. On various internet forums you can read opinions that the use of gotu kola for a longer period of time improves energy and concentration. Users also appreciate the preparation due to the improvement of mental fitness.

An additional advantage of gotu koli is that the price of the product is not excessive and adequate to the quality.

See also: Attract positive energy

Gotu kola – side effects

Gotu kola has extremely rarely any side effects. If they do, they are usually mild. These include drowsiness, nausea, headaches, as well as skin irritation and dizziness. In the event of any of the above-mentioned symptoms, it is best to stop taking goto kola and consult a doctor.

Gotu kola – contraindications

Gotu kola, when applied to the skin, is possibly safe in pregnant women. It is not recommended to use gotu koli orally by pregnant and breastfeeding women.

People over 65 years of age should consult a doctor before using the preparation. In addition, people with liver disease or scheduled surgery should not take goto kola. Gotu kola is also not recommended for children and adolescents.

Gotu kola – drug interactions

Gotu kola may interact with the following medications:

1. drugs that affect the work of the liver: gotu kola contains ingredients that can damage the liver, and taking it with other drugs that can also damage the liver can seriously damage the liver,
2. Cholesterol-lowering drugs (including statins): in animal studies, gotu kola raised cholesterol. It can also raise cholesterol in humans, although no studies have been done.
3. Antidiabetic medications: in animal studies, gotu kola appears to increase blood sugar levels. People with diabetes should not take gotu kola without first consulting a doctor,
4. diuretics: gotu kola appears to act as a diuretic, which means it helps the body get rid of excess fluid. Taking diuretics and getting kola can cause you to lose too much fluid, upsetting your electrolyte balance. The same goes for taking gotu kola with diuretic herbs such as green tea, astragalus and ginkgo.
5. sedatives: because gotu kola acts as a sedative, it can make some medications stronger for anxiety or insomnia. The same goes for herbs taken for anxiety or insomnia, such as valerian.

Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health. Do you need a medical consultation or an e-prescription? Go to halodoctor.pl, where you will get online help – quickly, safely and without leaving your home.