Gotu kola is a small herb native to parts of Asia, Australia, and Africa that grows in swampy areas. It is considered a spiritual herb in some cultures. Medicinally, it has mild adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcerogenic, and circulatory stimulating properties. It can benefit memory, treat skin issues, reduce blood pressure, and help the body remove toxins. Gotu kola should be used cautiously by pregnant/breastfeeding women and those with liver disease or diabetes. It can be consumed as a tea or applied topically as a balm or oil.

1. Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

4. Medicinal effects

6. Benefits

8. Precaution

10. How to use Gotu Kola leaves

11. As a tea: Steep one teaspoon of dried gotu kola leaves in a cup of boiling water and sweeten with honey as desired. Sipping a cup of gotu kola tea before bed will help induce a deep, restful sleep. It’s also useful in relieving headaches and indigestion.

12. As a balm : Combine ¼ cup dried gotu kola leaves with ¼ cup dried chamomile leaves and steep in ½ cup of boiling water for ten minutes. Strain and blend the remaining mixture with cornstarch to make a thick paste. Apply to skin and once it has dried, rinse with room-temperature water.

13. As an oil : Boil ½ cup dried gotu kola leaves in two cups of water until the volume is reduced by half. Remove the leaves and add one cup of almond or sesame oil, then let the mixture simmer until all the water evaporates and you are left with the herbalized oil. This is also a wonderful oil to use for your daily self massage.