Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola): Benefits, Uses, and Health Effects
Centella Asiatica, also known as Gotu Kola, is a medicinal plant with a long history in traditional Asian medicine. Modern studies have highlighted its therapeutic potential, particularly concerning skin regeneration, stimulating collagen synthesis, calming inflammation, and combating signs of skin aging. Besides dermatological use, Centella Asiatica is also appreciated for its positive effects on peripheral circulation, memory, and overall body balance.
Thanks to these properties, the plant is frequently included in cosmetic products, dietary supplements, and phytotherapeutic formulas. How to correctly use Centella Asiatica and in what forms it can be integrated into your daily routine – whether for skin or general health – discover in this material.
What is Centella Asiatica and where does it come from?
Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) is a perennial plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. It originates from the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia – particularly India, China, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. It grows naturally in marshy and humid areas and is widely cultivated today for both medicinal and cosmetic use.
This plant has an impressive medicinal tradition, having been used for over 3000 years in the traditional Ayurvedic, Chinese, and African medicine systems. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is known as Brahmi, considered a tonic for the brain and nervous system. In Chinese medicine, it is called the “elixir of life” or the “plant of longevity,” and in Asian popular culture, it is also known as “tiger grass” – legend has it that injured tigers roll in this plant to speed up their healing.
The chemical composition of Centella Asiatica is complex and explains its varied uses. The plant is rich in triterpenoids (such as asiaticosides, madecassosides), flavonoids, phenolic acids, and saponins – bioactive compounds that confer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cicatrizing, and neuroprotective properties. Through these mechanisms, Centella Asiatica contributes to tissue regeneration. It supports the skin’s barrier function, accelerates the healing of skin lesions, and improves microcirculation.
Traditional Therapy
In traditional therapeutic practice, the plant has been used to treat eczema, superficial wounds, scars, ulcers, edema, and minor burns. In addition to skin benefits, Centella Asiatica based preparations are also used as adjuvants in chronic venous insufficiency, rheumatic conditions, states of anxiety, memory and concentration disorders, as well as in reducing symptoms related to chronic stress.
The importance of this plant has also been recognized over time by the modern medical community. Centella Asiatica extracts have been included in numerous official pharmacopoeias, such as the Indian, British, Chinese, French, and European Pharmacopoeias. They are standardized for use in supplements, dermatocosmetic products, and clinical phytotherapy.
Centella Asiatica is a versatile plant: it can be used in the form of liquid extracts, capsules, tinctures, ointments, or gels, but also as an edible plant in soups, salads, and teas in traditional cuisines of South and Southeast Asia. Due to its safe profile and clinically proven effects, this plant species remains a key ingredient in both complementary medicine and the modern cosmetic industry.
Benefits of Gotu Kola for health
Gotu Kola offers a range of health benefits, thanks to its concentration of bioactive compounds:
Stimulates memory and supports cognitive functions
Gotu Kola is known for its beneficial effects on brain health, being traditionally used as a nerve tonic in Ayurvedic medicine. Extracts from this plant contain triterpenoids and flavonoids that support brain function by improving cerebral blood flow, protecting neurons from oxidative stress, and regulating neurotransmitter activity. Experimental and clinical studies indicate that Gotu Kola administration can improve short-term and long-term memory. It enhances concentration capacity and supports overall cognitive performance, especially in contexts of mental fatigue or neurological aging.
Reduces stress and manifestations of anxiety
In addition to its effects on cognitive functions, Gotu Kola has an anxiolytic and adaptogenic action, being useful in states of nervous agitation, irritability, and sleep disorders associated with chronic stress. Preclinical studies have shown that the plant acts on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, reducing cortisol levels and inducing a calming effect. By reducing psychological tension, the extract can help restore emotional balance and increase the body’s resistance to external stressors.
Improves circulation and strengthens blood vessel walls
Centella asiatica is frequently used in conditions of the venous system due to its tonic properties on blood vessels. The plant’s active compounds contribute to increased collagen synthesis and strengthening of the vascular wall structure, leading to reduced capillary permeability and improved venous elasticity. Due to this mechanism, Gotu Kola is effective in alleviating symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, such as heavy legs, peripheral swelling, or discomfort caused by varicose veins. At the same time, it has draining effects on the lymphatic system and contributes to combating water retention in tissues.
Supports skin health and accelerates healing
By stimulating collagen production and regenerating connective tissues, Gotu Kola plays an important role in the skin’s healing process. Its extracts are used in the treatment of minor wounds, burns, and post-operative scars, and due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, it contributes to restoring skin balance and reducing irritation. Furthermore, Centella asiatica based preparations are frequently included in dermo-cosmetic products due to their moisturizing, restructuring, and calming effects.
Effects of Centella Asiatica on the skin
Centella asiatica is one of the most frequently used botanical ingredients in cosmetic products due to its beneficial effects on the skin. The plant contributes to skin tissue regeneration by stimulating collagen synthesis and accelerating the natural healing process. The major active compounds – asiatoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid – act synergistically. It reduces inflammation, protects the skin against oxidative stress, and supports the restoration of the skin barrier.
Applied topically, Centella asiatica soothes irritation, redness, and dryness, making it suitable for sensitive, damaged skin or skin exposed to external aggressors (wind, sun, pollution). Due to its calming and anti-inflammatory effect, Centella extract is also effective in dermatitis, eczema, or other inflammatory skin conditions. Additionally, it contributes to restoring skin elasticity and firmness, making it a key ingredient in anti-aging products.
Moreover, formulas that include Centella asiatica extracts are often enriched with other antioxidants, such as vitamin C. This amplifies the collagen-boosting effect and contributes to evening out skin texture. It is consistently used in the form of serums, creams, or masks. Centella asiatica helps maintain hydrated, smooth, and visibly brighter skin.
Last but not least, to support skin repair effects from within, it can be combined with collagen supplements, such as Premium Collagen 10,000 mg, which acts complementarily for the health of skin, hair, and nails. Thus, Centella asiatica proves to be a valuable ally in the cosmetic routine, with clinically proven benefits for the skin.
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Ways to use Centella Asiatica for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes
Centella asiatica is a plant recognized for its therapeutic and cosmetic potential. It has multiple applications supported by clinical evidence and its traditional use. In medical practice, standardized extracts of this plant – particularly those rich in madecassoside and asiatoside – are frequently used to treat peripheral circulatory conditions. For instance, in chronic venous insufficiency, supplements with Centella asiatica extract can help reduce edema. Also, the sensation of heaviness in the lower limbs, by strengthening blood vessel walls and improving venous blood flow. Clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing symptoms associated with varicose veins. Some pharmaceutical preparations are commonly prescribed in this context.
Other Uses
Additionally, the plant is also useful in the treatment of varicose ulcers, where the extract applied topically helps accelerate the epithelialization process and regenerate damaged tissues. In this regard, Centella asiatica is frequently included in medicinal gels or creams for skin care with chronic wounds, bedsores, or superficial burns. It is known for its ability to stimulate collagen synthesis and modulate the local inflammatory response.
In the cosmetic field, Centella asiatica is an omnipresent active ingredient in skincare products for sensitive, mature, or skin affected by aggressive external factors (wind, sun, pollution). For example, in moisturizing creams for dry or reactive skin, the extract has a soothing role, reducing redness, stinging, or peeling. In anti-aging products, Centella asiatica is used to support the dermis structure. And to prevent the degradation of collagen and elastin fibers, thus slowing down the appearance of fine lines.
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A concrete example is its inclusion in serums for skin barrier repair, alongside ingredients like niacinamide or ceramides. Due to its antioxidant properties, Centella asiatica protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation and oxidative stress, being useful in preventing photoaging. Furthermore, in masks for irritated skin, the plant acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. It helps soothe the complexion and reduce post-acne or post-cosmetic procedure inflammation.
Centella extracts are also found in body care products, such as body lotions for cellulite or gels for stretch marks. As they improve microcirculation and stimulate skin structure repair in areas with loss of elasticity.
Through all these applications, Centella asiatica has earned a stable place in both vascular phytotherapy and the modern dermatological cosmetic industry. It is considered a multifunctional, safe, and effective ingredient.
Precautions and possible adverse reactions
Centella asiatica is generally well-tolerated by the body when used at recommended doses. However, as with any plant extract with pharmacological action, some side effects may occur, especially in cases of incorrect or long-term administration. Although the plant is not considered toxic, isolated cases of effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, drowsiness, dizziness, or cutaneous allergic reactions have been reported, particularly among individuals with increased sensitivity to natural compounds.
The use of Centella asiatica for therapeutic purposes, especially in the form of concentrated supplements or standardized extracts, should be done with caution, particularly for individuals undergoing drug treatments, suffering from chronic liver conditions, or having hormonal disorders. In these situations, a prior medical evaluation is recommended to avoid potential interactions or unwanted effects.
Regarding topical use, adverse reactions are rare, but cannot be entirely excluded. In individuals with reactive skin, local irritation, a burning sensation, or erythema at the application site may occur. For this reason, a tolerance test on a small area of skin is recommended before the first use, especially when the product contains high concentrations of extracts or is combined with other active agents.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Additionally, there is insufficient data regarding the safety of use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As a precautionary measure, avoidance of administration during these stages is recommended, unless otherwise indicated by a doctor.
To safely benefit from the properties of Centella asiatica, it is essential to adhere to recommended dosages, choose certified products, and, in the case of supplements or therapeutic applications, ensure adequate medical supervision. Only in this way can the plant be successfully integrated into a care or treatment regimen. Risks are minimal and potential benefits significant.
In conclusion, Centella Asiatica is a remarkable plant with multiple benefits for health and beauty. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and collagen-boosting properties make it a valuable ingredient in cosmetic products and a useful supplement in treating certain conditions. To fully enjoy these benefits, inform yourself correctly and use Centella Asiatica with caution. Explore products that contain this plant. Discover how it can help you achieve healthier skin and a revitalized body!
References:
- Gohil, K. J., Patel, J. A., & Gajjar, A. K. (2010). Centella asiatica in cosmetology. International journal of cosmetic science, 32(1), 1–11;
- Poonam, S., & Mishra, D. (2013). Centella asiatica: phytochemistry and mechanisms of action of the major secondary metabolites. International journal of biomedical science : IJBS, 9(4), 174–188;
- Gray, N. E., & Sands, J. M. (2016). Centella asiatica (L.) Urban: From Traditional Medicine to Modern Medicine with Neuroprotective Potential. Diseases, 4(3), 28.