Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

Overview

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is an ancient Ayurvedic plant known as the herb of longevity.
It promotes tissue regeneration, enhances circulation, and acts as a natural nervous system calmer.
Its active compounds — asiaticosides — support collagen synthesis and neuronal protection.

What the Evidence Shows

Domain	Evidence Level	Observed Effects
Cognition & anxiety	Moderate	Reduces stress, improves focus and mental calm.
Skin & wound healing	High	Accelerates regeneration and collagen synthesis.
Venous circulation	Moderate to high	Strengthens capillaries and improves venous return.

Overall level: moderate to high for skin health and microcirculation.

Mechanism of Action

Asiaticosides stimulate fibroblasts → increased collagen and elastin production.
Neuroprotective effect via modulation of oxidative stress and dopamine.
Improves vascular permeability and reduces capillary inflammation.
Calming action on the prefrontal cortex, promoting mental relaxation.

💊 Dosage & Forms

Form	Typical Dose	Concentration	Timing
Standardized extract	250–500 mg/day	10–40% asiaticosides	Morning or midday
Raw powder	1–2 g/day	—	With meals
Tea / infusion	1–2 cups/day	—	Gentle relaxation

💡 Natural synergy: Ginkgo biloba + Gotu Kola → enhanced circulation and regeneration.

Useful Synergies

Combination	Main Effect
Gotu Kola + Ginkgo	Memory stimulation and microcirculation.
Gotu Kola + Bacopa	Cognitive and adaptogenic stress support.
Gotu Kola + Collagen	Accelerated skin regeneration.
Gotu Kola + Magnesium	Enhanced nervous relaxation.

🟢 Proven Benefits

Regenerates tissues and promotes faster healing.
Enhances mental clarity and reduces stress.
Improves venous circulation and skin elasticity.
Protects neurons from oxidative stress.

🟡 Still Under Study

Limited human data on neuronal longevity.
Effects depend on asiaticoside concentration.
Precise mechanisms for memory enhancement still being studied.

⚠️ Risks & Interactions

Consult a healthcare professional if you have liver issues, are pregnant, or breastfeeding.
May cause mild drowsiness or digestive discomfort.
Avoid combining with sedatives or anxiolytics without medical supervision.
May enhance the effects of medications that improve circulation.

✅ Quality Tips

Choose standardized extract ≥20% asiaticosides.
Avoid low-quality powders or untraceable blends.
Combine with an antioxidant-rich lifestyle for long-term results.

Sources

https://ods.od.nih.gov/
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada.html
https://examine.com/supplements/gotu-kola/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30589677/
PubMed (30589677) — Neuroprotection and wound healing
Examine.com — Gotu Kola Overview
NIH/ODS — Centella asiatica
Health Canada — Herbal Product Safety