Mode of Action
Because Gotu Kola is a rejuvenative nervine, it is often recommended for balancing the nervous system. Gotu Kola leaf & root contain key constituents that help the body to maintain healthy neurotransmitter function, while also promoting normal levels of mental alertness and a sound memory. Gotu kola also supports the body’s inherent ability to acclimate to temporary stress. Gotu Kola leaf & root have long been used to support the health of skin, hair, and nails in Asia, India and in other native cultures. Numerous clinical trials have shown that Gotu Kola indeed has beneficial dermatologic effects by helping to help support the connective tissue that line many of the external surfaces of the body including the scalp and skin. These supportive actions include supporting normal integrity of skin tissue and connective tissue maintenance, healthy formation of connective tissue structural components, and healthy keratization of the skin. Because Gotu kola supports healthy connective tissue, it also supports blood vessel strength and integrity as well as normal circulation of blood.

Helpful Associations
Aswagandha extract (available at Blissdorf)
Reishi extract (available at Blissdorf)
Chaga extract (available at Blissdorf)

Ethnobotany
Whether taken in herbal tea or cosmetic products, centella is favoured for its potent skin care benefits and ability to promote youthfulness through its anti-aging, brightening, firming and tightening properties.
In India, centella is used in Ayurvedic medicine to heal skin ailments, like eczema, and to help soothe inflammation. In fact, centella is often referred to as Tiger Grass or Tiger Herb as ancient Laotian legend has it that tigers would rub their wounds on the leaves for faster healing. In Malaysia and Indonesia, the leaves are used in herbal tonic drinks to promote inner as well as outer beauty, while maintaining health. It is thought to improve mental focus, clarity and increase memory retention.
Centella is considered a ‘balancing’ tonic that relaxes the body, creating a calming effect to help encourage sleep or meditation. Carrying these associations with mental clarity and calmness, ingredients like centella are sought-after solutions to the worldwide issue of anxiety.
A favorite in traditional remedies, centella is now gaining global attention as beauty brands promote its many benefits for skin – further fueled by consumers eager to discover ancient cures, the next ‘super ingredient’ or natural beauty remedy. As the creation of many beauty products continues to be informed by concepts around wellness and holistic approaches, such ingredients become more important in a brand’s claim.

History
One of the first mentions of Gotu Kola can be found in the Chinese “Shennong Herbal ” dating to 200 to 100 BC, where it is noted as the “Fountain of Life.” In fact, a Chinese herbalist named Li Ching Yun was believed to have lived to 256 years old thanks to drinking an elixir with Gotu Kola. The herb is considered sacred in India, and is known as a Brahmi herb in Ayurveda for its ability to awaken spiritual perception. In the 1800s, it became widely used in India as a way to protect and nurture the skin. Around the same time, the French began using it for its cognitive benefits. 

Contra-Indications
Studies have found that gotu kola makes it harder to become pregnant. Do not use gotu kola if you have any health conditions, especially liver disease. Stop using gotu kola for at least 2 weeks before surgery.

Interactions
Although there is limited research on gotu kola’s effect on other medications, it’s possible that it can interfere with prescription or over-the-counter medications. It could interact with medicines metabolized by the liver. Gotu kola could amplify the effects of alcohol and sedative medications.
Always consult your doctor before using gotu kola.