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Gotu Kola: A Revered Herb for Mind and Body

Centella asiatica, commonly known as gotu kola, is a low-growing perennial herb native to the wetlands of Asia. Recognized by its vibrant, cup-shaped leaves, gotu kola has been treasured for thousands of years in both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda. It is renowned for its ability to support cognitive health and is often used to enhance memory and focus.

The leaves of gotu kola are typically brewed into herbal teas, incorporated into blends, or tinctured. It is also widely consumed as a culinary vegetable in many Asian countries, where it is often eaten raw, made into fresh juices, or included in dishes like salads with lime juice, chili, shallots, and coconut flakes.

Historical and Cultural Significance
Gotu kola holds a storied place in the wellness traditions of Asia. In Ayurveda, it is known as “mandukaparni,” or “frog-leafed,” for its preference for swampy areas. This herb is considered tri-doshic, meaning it balances all three Ayurvedic doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha. In TCM, it is referred to as “ji xue cao” and has been recorded in ancient Chinese texts as a “fountain of life,” with legends claiming that a gotu kola-eating herbalist lived for over 200 years.

The herb is not to be confused with kola nut (Cola nitida), a caffeine-containing stimulant, or bacopa (Bacopa monnieri), another Ayurvedic herb sometimes called “brahmi” or “mandukaparni.” Unlike kola nut, gotu kola is not a stimulant, and while it shares some similar uses with bacopa, it is an entirely different plant species.

Description and Habitat
Gotu kola thrives in the warm, moist climates of South and Southeast Asia, growing near slow-moving water. It produces small, round, bright green leaves, delicate white to light purple flowers, and oval-shaped fruits. A member of the carrot family (Apiaceae), it shares botanical kinship with parsley, fennel, cilantro, and angelica.

The name “gotu kola” translates to “cup-shaped leaf” in the Sri Lankan Sinhala language. In Sri Lanka, elephants, admired for their longevity and memory, are said to graze on the plant, inspiring locals to consume a few leaves daily.

Energetics and Uses
In Ayurveda, gotu kola is described as sweet, bitter, and astringent in taste, with a cooling energetic profile. Its calming properties make it a popular choice for soothing mental turbulence and promoting relaxation.

Throughout Asia, gotu kola is considered a nourishing and versatile herb. It is enjoyed as a salad green, blended into refreshing juices, or cooked in traditional dishes.

Precautions
Gotu kola is generally regarded as safe. However, we recommend consulting a qualified healthcare practitioner before use, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.