Although it has been in existence for centuries, Gotu kola, or gota as it is commonly referred to, is an herbal remedy that has just recently gained notice in western culture. Its therapeutic benefits are many and it’s known as a preferred alternative medicine for a variety of ailments.
The Origins of Gota
Gotu kola (centella asiatica) is found as a native herb in both Sir Lanka and India. This aquatic plant similar to watercress grows best in very wet conditions such as found in the low lying wetlands of these countries. It has long been a part of Sri Lankan, Indonesian, Malaysian, and Vietnamese cuisine and touted for its nutritional benefits and it’s often called “The Fountain of Life.”
The ancient Ayurvedics used Gota as an aid in improving memory, among other applications. Myth states that it is this herb responsible for an elephant’s long life. Perhaps even more fantastic is Gota’s reputation for allowing Li Ching Yun, a Tai Chi Chuan master, to live a purported 250+ years. Yet another legend from Sri Lanka claims that a 10th century king ingested Gota tea to give him the stamina and energy to keep up with the 50 women in his harem.
Modern Medicinal Use of Gota
Alternative medical practitioners are increasingly prescribing Gotu kola as a naturopathic treatment for many ailments. Clinical studies dating back to 1973, along with several more modern studies, have proven its benefits for improving mental clarity and providing an energy boost in research subjects.
Gotu kola has been shown to improve the following conditions:
• Burns and wounds – Gota’s properties help heal minor abrasions and burns
• Memory, mental clarity, and overall brain function
• Arthritis and other inflammatory diseases – Gota is a natural anti-inflammatory agent
• Psoriasis, Eczema, and other skin conditions – Gota’s anti-inflammatory properties can even be used to treat bad cases of acne
• Hemorrhoids – the herb strengthens blood vessels and improves circulation
• Varicose veins – By strengthening the blood vessels and improving circulation, Gotu kola is effective in preventing spider veins and other such disorders.
• Menstruation – those suffering from water retention can use Gota as a mild diuretic
• Hypertension – drunk as a tea from the leaves of the plant
• Scars and stretch marks – rubbing Gotu kola on scar tissue improves its appearance. Applied while a wound is healing, it will lessen the degree of scarring.
Methods of application vary. In cuisine, the leaves are eaten raw or cooked. In traditional medicinal applications, the leaves were steeped into a tea or ground into a paste mixed with cornstarch or oil. This poultice was particularly effective for wounds, burns, open sores, and general irritations of the skin. When Gota is emulsified with oil, it creates a soothing massage oil.
For general health purposes, it is perhaps easiest to take Gotu kola as a dietary supplement. It is contraindicated for anyone with diabetes as Gota tends to raise the level of blood sugars. Because it increases blood circulation, pregnant women are advised to refrain from taking the herb as well. With the many applications for its healing benefits, Gota is a naturopathic remedy
Studies Concerning Gota
In a study done in 1992 at the Kasturba Medical College, it was found that Gota can actually improve memory. A group of rats were treated for a period of 14 days for this study. At the conclusion of the study, it was found that the rats that were given the regimen of Gota had a memory 60 times greater for learned behavior than those that were not given Gota.
A clinical trial that began in 1989 is still in progress, according to Herb Wisdom. This study concerns the use of Gota with mentally retarded children. It has been found, so far, that the use of Gota increases or improves these children’s intelligence. Sloan Kettering suggests that large scale studies are needed to determine the true efficacy of Gotu Kola, but they do report that many studies show that the use of this wonderful herb has shown success in improving the cognitive function and mood of elderly people, in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, and that there is also a reduction in lower extremity edema as well.
The American Cancer Society mentions a study that was done in India, where Gotu Kola extract was used in mice who had cancerous tumors. The report is that the herb slowed the growth of those tumors. To date, few studies have been conducted on Gotu Kola with human subjects, but this is expected to change in the near future.
Sources: www.umm.edu, www.herbwisdom.com, www.mskcc.org, www.cancer.org, www.1001herbs.com
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