BRAHMI / GOTU KOLA - the pharmacy herb
- Priya Raghavan
- Jun 20
- 11 min read
Botanical Name: Centella Asiatica
Other names : Tiger herb, Indian pennywort, Asiatic pennywort, Spadeleaf,
Mandukaparni , Vallarai , Bengsag, Khanda brahmi, Muttil
Parts Used: leaves, branches, roots
Energetics (Dravyaguna):
Taste/Rasa - (Tikta)Bitter, (Kashaya)Astringent
Qualities/Guna- Laghu (light) , Sharp, subtle
Potency/Virya - Sheeta (cold)
Post digestive function/Vipaka - Madhura (sweet)
Dosha Compatibility: Balances all three doshas, but primarily Pitta and Kapha.
Can increase Vata if used in excess.
Tissues : Works on all tissues but primarily , blood (rakta), and marrow (majja)
The Plant:
Gotu Kola is a herbaceous, perennial plant in the flowering plant family Apiaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and islands in the western Pacific Ocean. It is consumed as a culinary vegetable and is used in traditional medicine. Centella asiatica is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent (including Sri Lanka), Southeast Asia, parts of Australia, and wetland regions of the Southeastern US.
The plant is aquatic but has a creeping, ground-hugging growth habit.
It can be cultivated in drier soils, including sandy loam, as long as they are watered regularly enough (such as in a home garden arrangement). The plant is characterized by its small, fan-shaped, green leaves, often compared to miniature waterlily pads. These leaves are smooth with rounded or kidney-shaped contours and are borne on long stalks. It continually re-roots itself at nodes (leaf intersections) creating an ever increasing mat of ground cover. The plant also produces small, white or pinkish flowers, followed by oval-shaped fruits. It is difficult to start from seed as the seeds can remain dormant for decades until conditions are conducive to germination.
While in traditional Asian medicine Centella Asiatica has been known since ancient times-thanks mainly to its properties-since the 19th century the plant has also been included in the official English, Chinese, Dutch, German, French, Italian and other pharmacopoeias. Gotu Kola has been called "a pharmacy in one herb" in ancient India. It is popular as one of the Brahmi herbs for its brain enhancing,anti-aging, longevity-producing properties. Brahmi has the meaning “bearer of the wisdom of Brahman,” a name that emphasizes Centella Asiatica’s neuroprotective and learning-facilitating properties.
It is also known as the elixir of life. In addition to a reputation as a brain and nerve tonic, Gotu Kola is also used for chronic and degenerative diseases and to treat numerous ailments such as tuberculosis, arthritis, leprosy and other skin conditions.
Gotu kola is nicknamed "tiger herb" or "tiger grass" because of the belief that tigers in Asia ( India, China , Korea, Laos and other parts) roll in the plant to soothe their wounds and aid in healing. This practice is said to be the origin of the name, highlighting the herb's purported wound-healing properties. It is a key ingredient in a healing ointment found in nearly every Korean household that is used to treat everything from minor paper cuts to deep scrapes.
Another story tells us people in Sri lanka saw wild elephants eat the plant and decided to try it too, thus discovering the plants benefits for an elephants memory
Food:
Gotu Kola has been used for culinary purposes for a long time. It contains essential oils, flavonoids, and tannins. The leaves are nutritious, containing a variety of amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
In regional India, during the hot season, it is often consumed in the form of a chutney , a preparation called tambuli, with lentils or other cooked forms just as they would use any other green.
In Burmese cuisine, raw pennywort is used as the main constituent in a salad mixed with onions, crushed peanuts, bean powder and seasoned with lime juice and fish sauce.
Centella is used as a leafy green in Sri Lankan cuisine. It is most often prepared as malluma, a traditional accompaniment to rice and vegetarian dishes.A variation of porridge known as kola kanda is also made with gotu kola in Sri Lanka. In addition it is commonly used in kanji , porridges , herbal teas or stir fried or used in a dhal as in India.
In Indonesia, the leaves are used for sambai oi peuga-ga, an Aceh type of salad, and is also mixed into asinan in Bogor.
In Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand, this leaf is used for preparing a drink or can be eaten in raw form in salads or cold rolls.
In Bangkok, vendors in the Chatuchak Weekend Market sell it alongside coconut, roselle, chrysanthemum, orange and other health drinks.
In Malay cuisine it is known as pegaga, and the leaves of this plant are used for ulam, a type of vegetable salad.
In some of these recipes you could substitute Brahmi powder for the fresh leaves.
Gotu kola has been used both orally and topically with various benefits through the centuries.
Here are some of the more specific benefits for the
Mind :
Gotu Kola is an adaptogen that helps our nervous system to withstand emotional stress and improves our capacity to focus, learn and remember. Ancient scriptures in Ayurveda speak of its potential ability to revitalize the nerves and brain cells - it has a general “building” or brahmana quality. In both Traditional Chinese Medicine as well as in Ayurveda, Gotu Kola has been used as an effective cognitiion enhancer with its benefits as a neuroprotector that strengthens memory, intellect, focus and concentration.
The active compounds in gotu kola, particularly triterpenoids, have demonstrated antioxidant properties, which may help manage oxidative stress in the brain. Oxidative stress is a factor in the development and progression of neurodegenerative conditions. Additionally, research suggests that gotu kola extract may support brain health by protecting against glutamate-induced excitotoxicity and enhancing neural connectivity.
So Gotu Kola has the ability to enhance nearly every aspect of mental functioning. Typically herbs or substances that can achieve such feats are highly stimulating; however, Gotu Kola is centering, which makes it ideal for anyone looking for a cognitive boost without any of the unwanted and imbalancing side effects of stimulants - also why it is a great herb for children.
Also why, Gotu Kola today features prominantly as one herb that is used for children and adults with ADHD.
In one study, children who took a half a gram of Gotu Kola extract powder every day for one year demonstrated significant improvement of their intellectual level. After six months, there was a substantial improvement in intelligence, cognitive function and concentration.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, Gotu Kola or mandukparni is used for balancing Kapha, Pitta, and Vata dosha, making it a Tridoshic herb.
Ayurvedic scriptures suggest that Gotu Kola benefits mental and emotional well-being by helping balance Vata and Pitta dosha. It can additionally help reduce excess Kapha in the body. Ayurveda also mentions that Gotu Kola can help balance Pitta’s sub-doshas, including sadhaka pitta (related to intellect, conscious thinking, understanding, and emotions) and bhrajaka pitta (related to skin, complexion, color, and skin temperature).
A herb for all ages,this neuroprotective herbs is a go to to keep good cognitive health as we get older and to support creativity, focus, grasping power as well as retention when we are younger.
Body:
Ayurveda classifies Gotu Kola as a rasayana, or rejuvenative herb, due to its ability to restore functioning, balance and health to many parts of the mind and body. Triterpenoid saponins, including asiatic acid, madecassic acid, and madecassoside, are thought to be the primary bioactive constituents. It is an extremely healing herb for the nervous system and has been shown to repair and restore axons which are used to transmit nerve impulses throughout the brain and body. As such, it has been used as an anti-anxiety, anti-stress and anti-insomnia medicine throughout its long history of human use.
Some significant properties mentioned in Ayurvedic scriptures, Charak Samhita, and Sushruta Samhita include antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, blood-purifying, and anti-aging properties. It is known to work on the brain through its effect on the gut microbiology.
Recent studies suggest that brahmi supports healthy skin, lymph, and circulatory functions.
A botanical used to nourish all the tissues in different ways, Gotu Kola is said to benefit the
Nervous system – Improve intellect and memory power
Digestive system – Because of its bitter taste it improves digestive fire, indicated in low digestive fire, malabsorption syndrome etc.
Circulatory System – Indicated in bleeding disorders, relieve edema, good for heart
Respiratory System – As it is bitter in Taste it helps to eliminate accumulated Kapha and also good to improve voice. Indicated in cough, breathing difficulty etc.
Urinary system – Indicated for diabetic patients
Reproductive System – Because of its cold potency and sweet taste it helps to increase breast milk production, also it purifies breast milk as it is bitter in taste.
Skin – As it improves blood circulation it helps to cure skin diseases, also promote wound healing. Indicated in the second stage of Syphilis, lymphadenitis and Filariasis.
Body temperature – Because of its bitter taste it is effective in fever and is Ama pachana
It helps to improve body strength, and promote longevity. Stimulating body organs thus improves overall body strength and immunity. rejuvenative. Traditional remedies and the latest research studies mention that the herb can help heal wounds like cuts, burns, tears caused by trauma, etc
Research from 2001Trusted Source found that gotu kola can reduce problems with fluid retention, ankle swelling, and circulation tied to taking flights that last longer than three hours.Research has shown that gotu kola's triterpenoids may support blood vessel health and reduce capillary permeability helps with reducing any water retention.
Gotu Kola is also used as an ingredient for Udvartana, also known as ubtan / powder massage. Powder massage with this is useful in treating obesity, to improve local blood circulation and to improve muscle tone and complexion. The anti-inflammatory properties of gotu kola may help support joint and muscle comfort.
Beauty:
Skin :One of the unique benefits of gotu kola for skin is its potential as a moisture regulator. This means that the herb may act as an astringent and moisturizer simultaneously, making it ideal for people struggling with oily or combination skin. People with Pitta imbalance generally struggle with oily skin. Pitta skin, being delicate and warm, can get oily and inflamed. Therefore, when a person uses Gotu Kola, its relaxing properties can help calm Pitta-aggravated skin and reduce excess oil production (predominantly in the T-zone).
In addition, the herb’s cleansing properties may help get rid of excess oil and impurities. Herbal practitioners emphasize that, unlike over-the-counter chemical-based products restricted to specific times of the day, gotu kola for skin can be used at any time. Additionally, the amino acids it contains are exceptional for soothing even the most irritated, acne-prone skin.
Among the bigger benefits of centella asiatica, is also its ability to increase collagen production and the formation of new skin due to the presence of triterpene saponins have made it a leading player in the treatment of skin disorders such as wounds, scratches, burns, psoriasis and eczema. For the same reason it is now used in cosmetics to treat stretch marks, skin aging and cellulite. It is a known fact today that as we age, we begin to lose collagen.There is a phethora of collagen boosters available to day both topical and oral.
In Ayurveda, there are certain herbs that boost the body’s natural production of collagen- Brahmi is one of them.It is also better to feed the body with collagen-boosters from the inside out, rather than from the outside in.It is said that 80% of one’s outer skin health depends on the health of their inner skin, especially the skin that lines the gut and Gotu Kola helps the body naturally synthesize collagen proteins.
According to a 2013 reviewTrusted Source, gotu kola can reduce the appearance of stretch marks. It’s thought that the terpenoids found in gotu kola increase collagen production in the body. This may help prevent new stretch marks from forming, as well as help heal any existing marks. Its antiseptic properties prevent further infection, and its anti-inflammatory abilities reduce swelling around the wound.
Gotu Kola has also been used for leprosy and other skin conditions, lupus, varicose ulcers, urinary conditions and female genital issues.
Centella Asiatica also contains a chemical compound called saponin, which enhances the skin’s barrier against UV rays, free radicals, and pollutants.
Beyond its undeniable healing properties, it excels at locking in moisture while delaying signs of aging, giving the skin a beautiful ‘glass-like’ glow and youthful appearance.
Hair:
Different doshas impact our hair differently. For example, an imbalanced Pitta may cause hair thinning and weakening of hair follicles due to increased heat. Vata dosha, on the other hand, can make hair brittle and cause hair to fall due to dryness, and Kapha imbalance causes hair to fall due to excess oil secretion. The antioxidant properties of gotu kola for hair and its potential ability to help improve blood circulation may help stimulate hair growth and reduce hair loss.
Gotu Kola’s active ingredients nourish the cells or hair follicles, which further aids hair growth and reduce hair loss. This way, the herb effectively fights hair loss triggered by Vata, Pitta, and Kapha dosha. Applying gotu kola for hair in the form of oil to the scalp and gently massaging can help unlock its potential, stimulating properties.
Bolster this effect with the oral intake of other herbs that promote healthy hair and you have a winning combination.
Here are a few ways to try incorporating Brahmi into your life.
Ways to Use: The whole plant is utilised when it comes to Brahmi and the dosage varies due to the form it is taken in. Some of the best ways to use Brahmi are,
Brahmi Capsules / Supplements: Brahmi can be taken in powder or capsule form alongside warm or cold milk. Our Brahmi Supplements are made of Pure Centella Asiatica. A great way to get everyday support for adults as well as children in small doses.
Keep following us to know of a new supplement that is soon going to be launched which multiplies the combined effect of herbs for cognitive support.
Brahmi Powder: Brahmi powder is an easy addition to anything you want, from milks to smoothies to a regular green chutney to give it extra power, especially in the summer. Can also be used in face or body masks as suggested. A versatile way of using.
Brahmi Tea : Make a simple tea with just Brahmi powder or enjoy our tranquiliTEA which is a flavourful blend of Rose and Brahmi amongst other botanicals. Great during hot climates - on the outside or within the body, to ease menstrual cramps, hot flushes, inflammations or just as a regular skin and hair tonic.
Brahmi Hair Oil : If you’re looking to use brahmi for your hair and scalp health, oil may be the practical options for you. By applying this nutrient dense herb straight to your scalp with a strong carrier oil, the nourishing, cooling and strengthening qualities of brahmi will bring the life and shine back to your hair!
Lustrous Locks , Brahmi Taila, Calm and Relax Oil are a few of our oils that carry Brahmi into your scalp to cool and nourish.
TRY THIS
Anti - Ageing Face Mask
Make a face mask made using
1 tsp Gotu Kola / Brahmi powder
1 tsp Guduchi powder
1 tsp Ashwagandha powder
with enough 1/2 tsp honey and 1 tsp or more of rose water to make a runny consistency
Apply for 40 minutes and then wash off.
Make this a regular ritual to benefit from the anti-aging benefits of the herb.
Face Mask for Oily Skin
Combine a spoon of Brahmi powder
Amla powder and
Hibiscus or Neem powder (optional)
with enough rose water may help remove excess oil from the skin.
Leave the paste on the face for 20-30 minutes and wash it with water.
Cautions:
At Earthen Living, your health and well-being are our utmost priority so we encourage you to take these precautions seriously. Before you begin any Ayurvedic medicine/treatment for your medical conditions, we strongly recommend that you consult your qualified healthcare provider and a Ayurvedic Practitioner before continuing.
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: There is not enough information on brahmi use during these times so please avoid use.
Bradycardia (Slow heart rate): Brahmi may slow down the heart rate, this may cause a problem in those who already have bradycardia.
Thyroid: Brahmi may increase levels of thyroid hormones, it’s advised to monitor TSH levels whilst taking brahmi with thyroid medication.
Sedatives: This herb may interact with sedatives.
Liver: Brahmi may interact with liver function so it is advised to monitor liver function whilst taking bhrami with hepatoprotective drugs.
Stomach issues/Gastro-intestinal problems: Brahmi may increase stomach and intestinal secretions. This may cause increase in GI tract blockages or worsen existing ulcer.
Lung: Brahmi may increase secretions in the lungs which could cause issues in lung, asthma, COPD conditions.
Get in touch with us with any questions you may have on Brahmi, its appropriate use or anything else.
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