A leafy herb from the parsley family, used in Ayurvedic and Chinese tradition.
Why it’s used: Traditionally used to support mental clarity and circulation.
Gotu kola, Centella asiatica, is a low-growing herb with small fan-shaped leaves that thrives in damp, shady places across India, Sri Lanka, South-East Asia and southern Africa. It belongs to the same broad plant family as parsley and carrots, and in South-East Asia the fresh leaves are eaten in salads and blended into drinks.
It has a long history in both Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese practice, where it is traditionally used to support mental clarity and circulation. Its compounds of interest are triterpenes, including asiaticoside, madecassoside and asiatic acid. Researchers have studied these compounds, including in skincare, but human evidence for oral supplements is limited and it has no authorised health claim.
On labels you will see gotu kola, Centella asiatica leaf or herb extract, or extracts standardised to triterpenes. In parts of India it is also called brahmi, which can cause confusion with Bacopa monnieri, so the Latin name is the safest guide.
3 findings behind this ingredient. Hover a card for the detail and the source.
Systematic review of 8 randomised controlled trials of Centella asiatica in chronic venous insufficiency. Pooled data showed better microcirculation and less ankle swelling, though many studies were poorly reported.
Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial in 28 healthy older adults taking 250, 500 or 750 mg Centella asiatica extract once daily for 2 months. The highest dose enhanced working memory, and mood ratings improved.
Randomised placebo-controlled trial in 40 people with severe venous hypertension taking 60 mg total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica twice daily for 8 weeks. Rate of ankle swelling and resting flux fell, with improved signs and symptoms and no side effects.
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No, they are different plants, although both are sometimes called brahmi in India. Gotu kola is Centella asiatica and bacopa is Bacopa monnieri. They have different compounds and different research, so check the Latin name on the label.
Rarely. The NIH LiverTox database describes a small number of liver injury cases, usually starting three to eight weeks after beginning the herb and improving after stopping. Avoid it if you have liver problems, and seek advice if you notice jaundice or dark urine.
Yes. In Sri Lanka, Thailand and other parts of South-East Asia the fresh leaves are a common salad green and are blended into drinks. Supplements concentrate the leaf into powders or extracts, which is different from eating it as a vegetable.
Information only, not medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist first.
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