Gotu Kola Extract

Primarily produced in various humid swamps all over the world, gotu kola extract achieved its status as a medical property in Hindu circles, where it earned an early reputation for treating various skin ailments and problems. The Latin name for this herb is Centell Asiatica and it is believed to contain triterpenes, believed to boost the production of collagen as well as strengthen blood vessels and neurotransmitters.

Burns, skin irritations and various other wounds have also been traditionally treated with gotu kola extract. Other gotu kola benefits include its ability to minimize scarring which results from burns and surgical incisions. It is believed that gotu kola may also be beneficial in healing internal scarring as well as scars on the liver resulting from cirrhosis.

One of the most surprising gotu kola facts is that it contains properties that may also contribute to enhanced blood flow and the overall health of connective tissue. Due to its connection with circulation and healthy connective tissue, gotu kola has also been used an internal treatment for varicose veins.

In Chinese culture, Gotu kola has also been traditionally used as a treatment for memory loss. The effectiveness of gotu kola in treating memory loss due to the results of Alzheimer’s disease is also under current study. Such studies have led some medical authorities to believe that this herb may also be beneficial in increasing learning abilities. Positive results on children with proven developmental disabilities have been observed in studies where this herb was used as a treatment.

Surprisingly, gotu kola may also be beneficial in treating cellulite. This is probably related to its strong ties in improving connective tissue.

Gotu kola side effects are known to be very minimal; in fact the only known adverse side effects related to the use of this herb include reports of headaches, skin rash and a sensitivity to sunlight in very rare cases. It is however; recommended that women who are pregnant or who are nursing avoid the use of this herb.

Tincture, ointment, capsule, tea and liquid over the counter forms of this herb are available. Since triterpenes is the active ingredient in the herb, consumers should look for over the counter forms that contain triterpenes as the active ingredient to obtain the maximum health benefits.

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