Centella Asiatica: What It Is, What It Is, What It Is Used For And How To Use It

Centella asiatica, also known as Gotu Kola, is a plant rich in asiatic acid, flavonoids, carotenoids, vitamin C, B and antioxidants, being widely used in Ayurvedic and conventional medicine.

Being a plant with anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, soothing, stimulating and improving blood circulation properties, centella asiatica has been recognized in the treatment of skin diseases such as dermatitis, leprosy and psoriasis, besides being used in cases of anxiety, poor circulation and mental fatigue.

The use of centella asiatica is generally in the form of tea, tincture or capsules, in addition to ointment, gel or cream.

Centella asiatica: what it is, what it is, what it is used for and how to use it

The main benefits of centella asiatica are:

1. Promote healing

The intake of this plant or application on the skin in the form of cream, ointment or gel decreases inflammation and increases collagen production, improving the healing of closed wounds and burns. In these cases, one of the recommendations for use in adults is the intake of 1 to 2 tablets of 10 mg of Centella asiatica extract 3 times a day, before meals, for 4 weeks. 

As centella asiatica also has bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties, it is also recommended as an ointment or cream for the treatment of other skin problems, such as dermatitis and leprosy.

2. Improve circulation

Centella asiatica helps to strengthen veins and improve blood circulation, promoting the improvement of varicose veins and hemorrhoids, as well as decreasing swelling, numbness, tiredness and cramps in the legs. In addition, this plant helps in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure and heart attack. See other ways to improve circulation.

Studies showed that treatment with the intake of capsules or tablets with 60 to 120 mg of centella asiatica for 3 months improves symptoms of varicose veins and poor circulation.

3. Reduce inflammation

Due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and bactericidal action, centella asiatica can be used in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

In addition, a study [1] showed that the application on the skin of a cream based on extract of this plant for 3 to 8 weeks also helps to reduce psoriasis lesions.

4. Treat flaccidity and stretch marks

The intake of tea and the use of creams based on centella asiatica help to prevent and reduce stretch marks. In addition, this plant fights flaccidity and wrinkles, due to the flavonoids, antioxidants and vitamin C it contains, which prevent premature aging and stimulates the production of collagen, which is important to keep the skin hydrated and toned.

5. Decrease anxiety and improve mood

Centella asiatica acts on the nervous system, and the intake of the extract or tea of this plant, promotes a stimulating, invigorating and calming function, being normally used to treat anxiety, insomnia, improve mood and cognitive functions.

A study [2] showed that the intake of 750 mg of Centella asiatica extract for 2 months contributes to improve memory, concentration and mood. This same study proved that the intake of 1000 mg of extract of this plant for 6 months improved depression, insomnia and loss of appetite in older adults.

6. Prevent and fight cancer

The antioxidants and vitamin C present in centella asiatica protect cells against free radical damage, preventing various types of cancer.

In addition, some studies [2], [3], [4] suggest the use of this plant for the treatment of some types of cancer, since several of its compounds, such as asiatic acid and asiaticosidic acid, have properties that make Centella asiatica capable of slowing the growth of tumors and fighting cancer cells in the colon, liver, prostate and breast, for example. 

7. Treat gastric ulcers

The antioxidants and bactericidal compounds of centella asiatica leaf help to improve healing in the stomach and may help in the treatment of gastric ulcers.

In addition, Centella asiatica increases the production of GABA, which is an amino acid that helps to decrease anxiety and stress, which are directly related to disturbances in the stomach.

How to take Centella asiatica

Centella asiatica can be consumed as a tea, tincture or capsules, and used on the skin in the form of cream or lotions for local applications.

This plant can be found in pharmacies and health food stores. The recommended amount varies according to the problem to be treated. However, the general recommendations are:

  • Dried leaf capsules: up to 3 times a day;
  • Tablets: up to 3 times a day;
  • Dried leaf teas: up to 3 cups (750 ml) per day;
  • Tincture: 2 to 4 tablespoons per day.

    • Another form in which centella asiatica is usually recommended is in ointment containing 1 ml of tincture of this plant, suggested to be applied up to 2 times a day.

    The maximum recommended intake of centella asiatica is up to 1 mg/kg body weight per day for up to 6 weeks. Whoever has the recommendation to consume this plant for a long period (up to 6 weeks) should pause for 2 weeks and then resume its consumption.

    Because it has some contraindications, the consumption of centella asiatica should preferably be done with the guidance of a health professional specialist in the use of medicinal plants.

    How to make Centella asiatica tea

    Centella asiatica tea should be prepared in the proportion of 1 tablespoon of dried leaves per 500 ml of water. Boil water, add the leaves and turn off the stove. Then cover the container and let it stand for 10 to 15 minutes. Then drink 2 to 3 times a day.

    Possible side effects

    The side effects of centella asiatica occur mainly when it is used in ointment, cream or gel, and may manifest redness on the skin, itching and sun sensitivity.

    The ingestion of very high doses of this plant can cause nausea, dizziness, stomach pain, vomiting and headache.

    Contraindications

    Centella asiatica is contraindicated in pregnant women, during breastfeeding and in people with liver or kidney problems.

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