Gotu Kola: A Herb That May Boost Brain Health

Introduction

This review looks at the herb Centella asiatica, also known as gotu kola. It has been used traditionally to improve memory and reduce anxiety. Scientists wanted to understand how it might affect the brain.

What the study did

This is a review of many studies, mostly in rodents and cells, with a few in humans. The researchers examined the chemicals in gotu kola and how they affect the brain. They looked at effects on memory, anxiety, seizures, and brain cell protection.

What it found

• Gotu kola may improve memory and reduce anxiety, based on animal studies and a few human studies.
• It may protect brain cells from damage caused by beta-amyloid, a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease.
• It may help brain cells grow new connections (dendrites and synapses), which is important for learning.
• Key active compounds include asiatic acid, asiaticoside, and madecassoside, as well as caffeoylquinic acids.
• These compounds or their breakdown products have been found in the brain after taking gotu kola.

How much to trust it

Trust tier: Moderate. This is a review of many studies, but most are in animals or cells, not humans. The human studies are limited, so we cannot be sure the same effects happen in people. More research is needed.

Your action plan

• If you are curious about gotu kola, talk to a doctor or herbalist about its potential benefits and risks.
• Do not take gotu kola supplements without professional guidance, as doses and safety are not well established.
• For general brain health, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, and stay physically active.

This summary is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to a qualified professional before changing anything about your health.

Source

Centella asiatica - Phytochemistry and mechanisms of neuroprotection and cognitive enhancement.. Phytochemistry reviews : proceedings of the Phytochemical Society of Europe. 2018 PubMed