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|
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Gotu
Kola
|
| Parts Used
Leaves,
seeds, nuts and root |
|
| Common
Uses |
 |
Helps support and
stimulate the central nervous system. |
|
Helps improve
circulation to lower limbs. |
|
Helps lessen fatigue
and depression. |
|
Can be applied
externally as an ointment to help heal wounds. |
|
Helps burns to heal
and reduces scarring. |
|
Ointments also
relieve psoriasis, eczema and other skin irritations. |
|
Long associated with
longevity |
|
|
| Side
Effects No serious side effects
are known at this time. In some people, however, skin irritations are
caused by application of the ointment. |
|
| History
of Gotu Kola Gotu Kola is a creeping
perennial plant that grows in damp tropical conditions. It is a favorite
food of elephants and it is thought that this is the reason the plant
became associated with longevity. |
| Gotu Kola has been
used by traditional Eastern medicines since ancient times. It was used
for a wide variety of complaints including fever, diarrhea, leprosy,
nervous disorders, menstrual problems, jaundice and rheumatism. It was
also used for many skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and lupus. |
| It became popular in
the West after the Second World War when it was sold in a herbal blend.
Gotu Kola's longevity properties were heavily promoted. These properties
have never been scientifically proven. |
