Centella asiatica

Centella asiatica, commonly known as Gotu Kola, has a long history of use across diverse cultures. In Ayurvedic practice in India, the dried leaves are boiled to produce a decoction that is drunk to support memory and calm the nervous system; the same leaves are also macerated in alcohol to create a tincture used for skin conditions such as eczema and for promoting wound healing (Sharma et al., 2019). Traditional Chinese Medicine records the use of fresh leaves and stems in a mild tea to treat chronic ulcers and to improve circulation; the decoction is also applied as a poultice on skin lesions to accelerate healing (Li & Wang, 2017). In West African communities, particularly among the Yoruba of Nigeria, the root bark is ground and mixed with water to make a decoction that is taken orally for fever and as a topical poultice for cuts and bruises (Adeyemi & Olatunji, 2020). These three traditions illustrate the plant’s versatility in both internal and external preparations.

A simple, safe recipe for a Gotu Kola tea is as follows: take 5 g of dried leaves, place them in a pot with 250 ml of boiling water, cover, and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink once daily. For a tincture, combine 30 g of dried leaves with 150 ml of 70 % ethanol, seal the jar, and let it steep for four weeks, shaking daily. After the period, strain the liquid and store in a dark glass bottle. Use the tincture sparingly—no more than 1 ml twice a day—and avoid use during pregnancy or if you have a history of liver disease, as the high alcohol content may pose risks.

The therapeutic effects of Centella asiatica are largely attributed to its triterpenoid saponins, notably asiaticoside and madecassoside, which have been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis and reduce inflammation. Flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol also contribute to antioxidant activity, while the presence of polysaccharides supports immune modulation. These constituents provide a biochemical basis for the plant’s traditional use in wound healing, skin repair, and cognitive support.

Modern research continues to validate these uses. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of asiaticoside in accelerating scar remodeling, and studies in neurobiology suggest potential benefits for memory enhancement. Commercially, standardized extracts of Centella asiatica are available as capsules, teas, and topical creams, ensuring that this ancient remedy remains accessible to contemporary users.

Food and beverages (non‑medicinal):
Centella asiatica leaves are consumed as a leafy vegetable in certain regional cuisines of South and Southeast Asia. In Indian cuisine, the leaves are boiled or stir‑fried and incorporated into vegetable curries or served as a side dish. Thai and Filipino preparations sometimes include the herb in soups or stews, where it is added during the final stages of cooking to preserve its texture. The plant is also used as a garnish in some traditional dishes, providing a mild, slightly peppery flavor. No commercial processing of the plant into oils, starches, or other food products is documented in the literature.

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