- Apiaceae
- Leaf and stem
- India · Sri Lanka · Southeast Asia
- Dried leaf, for infusion
Centella (Gotu Kola)
Centella asiatica
Select sizeThe plant
Gotu kola is a low, creeping plant of damp ground in India, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, with small fan-shaped leaves. The leaves and stems are dried and cut for infusion.
What's in it
Its leaves contain triterpenes, mainly asiaticoside and madecassoside, which are the plant's marker compounds. It also contains flavonoids.
Asiaticoside
The best-known triterpene in the leaf, studied in skin research.
Madecassoside
A closely related triterpene, often found alongside asiaticoside.
Flavonoids
Plant pigments with antioxidant activity.
How it works
Skin tradition: Gotu kola's triterpenes are studied for their role in skin repair and collagen, which is why the plant appears in both herbal teas and skincare. Calm focus: In Ayurveda it is taken for memory and a settled mind. Modern research in this area is early.
In the tradition
A long-standing herb of Ayurveda, where it is called mandukaparni, and of traditional Chinese and Southeast Asian practice.
In Sri Lanka the fresh leaves are finely shredded into a salad called gotu kola mallung.
- 1Steep 1–2 tsp of dried gotu kola in 250ml just-boiled water for 10 mins, then strain.
- 2Drink 1–2 cups daily.
- 3Mild, grassy taste — blends well with peppermint or lemon balm.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Best used within 12–24 months.
- Avoid during pregnancy, breastfeeding and under age 12.
- Liver conditions: avoid — rare liver reactions have been reported.
- On sedative medication: may add to the effect.
- Check before use if taking medication or before surgery.
A food supplement, not a substitute for a varied diet. Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
Common questions
How do I prepare centella (gotu kola)?
Centella (Gotu Kola) is steeped as an infusion. Steep 1–2 tsp of dried gotu kola in 250ml just-boiled water for 10 mins, then strain. Full directions are in the How to use panel above. See also: Infusion vs decoction.
What is centella (gotu kola)?
Centella (Gotu Kola) (Centella asiatica) belongs to the Apiaceae family; the leaf and stem are used. Origin: India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia. A creeping leaf long used in Ayurvedic and Southeast Asian traditions for skin and calm, clear focus.
How should I store dried centella (gotu kola)?
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Best used within 12–24 months.
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