gotu kola

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Adaptogenic: Helps the body adapt to stress. 

Nootropic: Supports cognitive function and memory. 

Anxiolytic: Reduces anxiety and promotes calmness. 

Antioxidant: Protects against oxidative stress and aging. 

Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in the body. 

Wound healing: Supports the healing of wounds and improves circulation. 

Venotonic: Supports healthy circulation and venous tone. 

Dermatological effects: Beneficial for the skin, improving collagen synthesis and elasticity. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Nausea 

GI upset 

Photosensitivity 

Burning 

Drowsiness 

Pruritis 

Topical: Allergic contact dermatitis 

Hypertriglyceridemia 

Sedation 

Hypercholesterolemia 

Hyperglycemia 

Hypertension 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

• Pregnancy 
• Liver disease 
• Allergies 
• Medication interactions 
• Surgery 
• Dosing duration  

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

Avoid usage during pregnancy. 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

Avoid usage during breastfeeding. 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show fetal risks in the first or later trimester.        
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.       
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.        
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.        
• Category N: No data for the drug under this category is available. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

gotu kola contains several triterpenoid compounds, such as asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid. These compounds are believed responsible for many of the herb’s effects. Triterpenoids have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties.  

gotu kola has shown potential neuroprotective effects in animal studies. It may help protect neurons from damage, enhance neuronal plasticity, and improve cognitive function. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

gotu kola exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, possibly attributed to its triterpenoid compounds. It can inhibit pro-inflammatory substances and pathways, helping to reduce inflammation in the body. 

Antioxidant activity: gotu kola contains various antioxidants that eat up free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. This antioxidant activity contributes to its potential benefits in reducing oxidative stress and preventing cellular damage.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

The bioavailability of the active compounds in gotu kola after oral administration must be well-established. However, triterpenoids and other constituents are believed to be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.  

Distribution 

Once absorbed, the active compounds of gotu kola are distributed throughout the body. They may reach various tissues and organs, including the brain, skin, and connective tissues, where they exert their pharmacological effects.  

Metabolism 

The metabolism of gotu kola in humans needs to be better characterized. However, some studies have identified metabolites of triterpenoid compounds, indicating that they undergo metabolic transformations in the body. 

Elimination and Excretion 

The elimination half-life and clearance of gotu kola compounds have yet to be extensively studied. How long the active compounds persist in the body must be determined before being eliminated. Some of the metabolites may be excreted through urine and feces. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

Depending on the desired effect and individual preference, gotu kola (Centella asiatica) can be administered in various forms. It is given as an herbal extract, leaves, tea, or topical cream in wound healing. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: gotu kola 

Pronounced as: go-too ko-laa 

Why do we use gotu kola? 

gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is used for its potential health benefits, which include: 

• Cognitive function and memory support. 
• Stress reduction and anxiety management. 
• Promotion of wound healing. 
• Improvement of skin health and appearance. 
• Assistance with venous insufficiency symptoms.