Brigitte Mars, A.H.G. See book keywords and concepts |
An old Singhalese proverb says of gotu kola, "Two leaves a day will keep old age away." And there are reports of a Chinese herbalist, Li Ching Yun, who supposedly lived to be 256 years old and was a regular consumer of gotu kola.
Gotu kola is known to strengthen the body's membranes, help restore strength to the venous walls and connective tissue, calm the mind, improve neural transport, and help the body detoxify. It is believed
1 UJ to improve the movement of energy from the left and right brain hemispheres. |
Mike Adams, the Health Ranger See article keywords and concepts |
Gotu kola: This herb has been used for centuries in Asia as natural medicine. gotu kola - also called marsh penny, Indian pennywort, and British pennywort - helps in the treatment of scars and wounds with infections that have not yet reached the bone. The herb can be used both internally and externally while components of gotu kola have been shown to increase levels of antioxidants and help repair connective tissues.
For more information on herbs and supplements that help heal wounds, visit SupplementReference.com and its sister sites. |
Stephen T., M.D. Sinatra See book keywords and concepts |
He saw me reading about gotu kola and told me that this plant is often used as a tea in his country, primarily for enhancing memory and rejuvenating energy. gotu kola contains no caffeine.
Studies have also demonstrated that gotu kola is effective in treating inflammation and in stimulating the immune system. gotu kola contains chemicals called saponins, which inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.
Consequently, gotu kola has been an important remedy in the ancient Indian medicinal tradition called ayurveda and today is held in high esteem by herbalist physicians all over the world. |
Brigitte Mars, A.H.G. See book keywords and concepts |
Both when taken internally and when applied topically in the form of an oil or salve, gotu kola can help stimulate collagen production, improve cutaneous microcirculation, and stimulate cellular mitosis. It can prevent scar formation and improve wound healing time and is used in the treatment of burns, eczema, gangrene, hemorrhoids, leprosy, lupus, and psoriasis. It also can encourage the healing of skin grafts.
Edible Uses
The fresh leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. In Asia you can find a variety of gotu-kola-based sodas.
Other Uses
Gotu kola is often taken as a brain tonic. |
| And there are reports of a Chinese herbalist, Li Ching Yun, who supposedly lived to be 256 years old and was a regular consumer of gotu kola.
Gotu kola is known to strengthen the body's membranes, help restore strength to the venous walls and connective tissue, calm the mind, improve neural transport, and help the body detoxify. It is believed
1 UJ to improve the movement of energy from the left and right brain hemispheres. |
Stephen T., M.D. Sinatra See book keywords and concepts |
He saw me reading about gotu kola and told me that this plant is often used as a tea in his country, primarily for enhancing memory and rejuvenating energy. gotu kola contains no caffeine.
Studies have also demonstrated that gotu kola is effective in treating inflammation and in stimulating the immune system. gotu kola contains chemicals called saponins, which inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.
Consequently, gotu kola has been an important remedy in the ancient Indian medicinal tradition called ayurveda and today is held in high esteem by herbalist physicians all over the world. |
David Winston, RH(AHG), and Steven Maimes See book keywords and concepts |
In animal studies, gotu kola has been shown to promote nerve development and has shown some mild adaptogenic effects by preventing the increase of Cortisol and adrenaline levels. gotu kola also is used as an anti-inflammatory for people with skin and connective tissue that is red, hot, and inflamed, which can be caused by rheumatoid arthritis, cellulitis, and psoriasis.
Dosage and Safety
Tincture (1:2): 20-40 drops, three times per day.
Tea: Add 1 tsp. dried herb to 8 oz. hot water, steep 30-40 minutes. Take up to 4 oz. four times per day. Safety Rating: ? ? ? |
Gary Null and Amy McDonald See book keywords and concepts |
The simplest one is gotu kola, which helps rebuild our nervous system and our brain. Take gotu kola capsules all day for better clarity during the day and better sleep at night."
Hadady has developed a memory soup that "renourishes the brain and has a number of moistening blood building herbs. |
Thomson Healthcare, Inc. See book keywords and concepts |
Central Nervous System Depression
An ethanol extract of gotu kola significantly increased (p<0.05) pentobarbital sleeping time, showed significant analgesic effect, protected against induced convulsion, significantly potentiated haloperidol catatonia, reduced immobility time in forced swimming, and reduced behavioral despair. Rodents were dosed orally at 0.2 to 0.5 mL of a 100 mg/mL or 150 to 200 mg/mL crude plant material suspension in gum acacia (Sakina & Dandiya, 1990). |
| Vascular/Venous Tone Effects: Ethanol extracts of Centella asiatica, in vitro, had a remarkable enhancement of fibroblast cell attachment and tissue plasminogen activator (Kim, 1993). gotu kola was indirectly shown to affect the metabolism of connective tissue of vascular walls. The total tripenic fraction from Centella asiatica (60 mg/d for 3 months) was given to 20 patients with varicose veins. The original values of uronic acid and lysosomal enzymes was elevated, but dropped significantly (p<0.01) by the end of the treatment period (Arpaia et al, 1990). |
| Asiaticoside, a component of gotu kola, facilitates wound healing through an increase in peptidic hydroxy-proline content, tensile strength, collagen synthesis, angiogenesis and epithelialization, as shown in animal models (Bonte, 1994; Maquart, 1990; Shukla, 1999).
Animal experiments have demonstrated anti-inflammatory actions, anti-anxiety, and antidepressant effects, and reduced stress ulcer rates. In vitro studies have shown antimicrobial effects. |
| A red, vesicular reaction with exudation and intense pruritus appeared after 20 days of treatment with a gotu kola containing cream (Centelase®). The reaction started at the point of application of the cream and later spread to the trunk and limbs. The rash cleared after treatment with prednisone 25 milligrams/day for.a week. Patch testing to Centelase cream was positive (++plus;) (Danese et al, 1994).
Fertility: Infertility is a possible adverse effect. |
| Four cases of contact dermatitis were reported when a gotu kola ointment was used to treat keloids, burn scarring, or hypertrophic scarring. The rashes appeared in 4 days to 2 weeks and consisted of pruritic, oozing, papular, eczematous lesions. Positive patch tests were obtained in all 4 cases (Eun & Lee, 1985).
Eczema was reported on the fingers of a woman's hand after treating a keloid with Madecassol® for 3 months. Patch testing showed allergic contact dermatitis (Hausen, 1993). |
David Winston, RH(AHG), and Steven Maimes See book keywords and concepts |
Herb/Drug Interactions: gotu kola may increase the effects of barbiturates, sedatives, and analgesics.
LAVENDER
Botanical Names: Lavendula angustifolia, L. latifolia Part Used: Flower
Lavender has a long history of use in cosmetics and perfumes and as a medicine. As a medicine, it is best known as a carminative for people with gas, nausea, and vomiting. Lavender also is a nervine, antidepressant, and a mild nootropic agent. Lavender essential oil can be used topically for burns and fungal infections and as an antibacterial medication for cuts and wounds. |
Joerg Gruenwald, Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts |
These tests show the sedative and antidepressive effects of gotu kola.
Ulcer-protective effect: Asiaticoid (suspended in propylene glycol) administered orally to rats, significantly reduced the formation of ulcers.
Antimicrobial effect: Using the puncture test procedure, asiaticoid showed the development of effectual zones with Pseudomonas pyocyaneus and Trichoderma mentagrophytes.
Healing effect: Asiaticoid mixture accelerated the healing process of wounds in rats in repeated skin injury tests. |
Mike Adams, the Health Ranger See article keywords and concepts |
The herb can be used both internally and externally while components of gotu kola have been shown to increase levels of antioxidants and help repair connective tissues.
For more information on herbs and supplements that help heal wounds, visit SupplementReference.com and its sister sites. You'll find information on supplements and herbs that can help with wound healing, immune function, inflammation and much more.
Always ask your naturopath or physician about which herbs or supplements may work best with your particular health circumstances. |
Michael T. Murray, N.D. See book keywords and concepts |
Centella, or gotu kola, has aroused much curiosity in American consumers. Many confuse gotu kola with kolanuts and assume gotu kola's rejuvenating activity is nothing more than the stimulant effect of caffeine. However, gotu kola is not related to the kolanut (Cola nitida or Cola acuminata), nor does it contain any caffeine.
Pharmacology
Centella asiatica, specifically the triterpenes, exerts remarkable wound-healing activity. Although the exact mechanism of action has not yet been fully determined, a number of interesting observations have been made. |
Textbook of Natural Medicine 2nd Edition Volume 1Michael T. Murray, ND See book keywords and concepts |
| Centella, or gotu kola, has aroused much curiosity in American consumers. Many confuse gotu kola with kolanuts and assume gotu kola's rejuvenating activity is nothing more than the stimulant effect of caffeine. However, gotu kola is not related to the kolanut (Cola nitida or Cola acuminata), nor does it contain any caffeine.
PHARMACOLOGY
Centella asiatica, specifically the triterpenes, exerts remarkable wound-healing activity. Although the exact mechanism of action has not yet been fully determined, a number of interesting observations have been made. |
Thomson Healthcare, Inc. See book keywords and concepts |
In one study, patients overall assessed gotu kola as effective in relieving the sensation of leg "heaviness," a symptom of chronic venous insufficiency. The other study showed insignificant results compared with placebo in terms of relieving leg heaviness, (Martinez, 2007).
Venous Hypertension
The effect of an extract of Centella asiatica with capillary filtration and ankle edema was evaluated in patients with venous hypertension. Sixty-two patients were included in the study and administered either placebo or the extract as 60 mg or 30 mg 3 times daily. |
Mike Adams See book keywords and concepts |
Healing foods for wounds, sprains, muscle soreness, etc
***** brewer s yeast ***** yam
***** peas ***** bayleaf
***** celery seeds ***** gotu kola
Healing herbs for wounds, sprains, muscle soreness, etc
***** elderberry ***** black cohosh
***** gotu kola ***** hops
***** echinacea ***** wild ginger
***** mulberry branch ***** anise
***** valerian root ***** chamomile
Healing nutrients and phytochemicals for wounds, sprains, muscle soreness, etc
***** zinc
***** chlorophyll ***** vitamin (_
Products to consider for injuries:
*" Recovazon and Sangre de Drago (www.AmazonDreams. |
Joerg Gruenwald, Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts |
Characteristics: gotu kola is almost tasteless and odorless.
Habitat: The plant is indigenous to southeast Asia, India, Sri Lanka, parts of China, western South Sea Islands, Madagascar, South Africa, southeast U.S., Mexico, Venezuela, Columbia, and eastern South America.
Production: The plant is gathered throughout the year and dried in the sun. |
Brigitte Mars, A.H.G. See book keywords and concepts |
On the first day of spring in Nepal, for example, gotu kola leaves are given to schoolchildren to improve their concentration and memory skills. The herb is sometimes used in cosmetics for its regenerative and skin-firming properties. |
Marshall Editions See book keywords and concepts |
You can also take 30-60 mg of extract three times a day, or 300-500 mg in capsule form three times a day. gotu kola is a fairly safe herb with minimal side effects. It does have the potential to promote drowsiness; therefore, it is advisable to refrain from using this herb if you are currently taking other drugs that promote drowsiness, such as sleeping aids or cold medications.
Boswellia: This herb contains chemical compounds that protect against inflammation, which may prove useful in the treatment of phlebitis. |
Gary Null and Amy McDonald See book keywords and concepts |
Herbs that Lower Cholesterol_
The most helpful herbs for lowering cholesterol and triglycerides are ginger, cayenne, raw garlic, and onions; also take ginkgo biloba, gotu kola as directed, and red clover as directed.
Mineral that Lowers Cholesterol_
Potassium is the superstar mineral for lowering hypertension and cholesterol. Generally taken at 500 mg a day, it will help significantly.
Phytochemicals that Lower Cholesterol
The healing phytochemicals in fruits and fruit juices are also very important. |
Marshall Editions See book keywords and concepts |
Licorice is also a ^, potent antiviral and antioxidant, and protects the liver. gotu kola, a spicy, cooling plant, also spares Cortisol and improves connective tissue integrity. It is adaptogenic, anti- z inflammatory, a diuretic, and acts as a mild laxative. Ashwaganda increases vitality and ^ also acts as an anti-inflammatory and mild sedative. Ginseng improves mental and physical stamina and is a wonderful herb specifically for adrenal fatigue. It also improves circulation, balances blood sugar, and is an antioxidant and antispasmodic. Combine m tsp of each loose herb or 1 ml of a tincture. |
David Steinman See book keywords and concepts |
Ginger and turmeric mingled with wild gotu kola, a valuable circulatory-health herb growing amid smooth pebbles and small boulders. Everywhere along fallen logs and branches was mycelium, provider of powerful immune-modulating beta-glucan sugars that protect against diseases like cancer and even prolong the survival of cancer patients (and were widely used as cancer drugs in Japan, whose average lifespan is years longer than that in the United States). |
Marshall Editions See book keywords and concepts |
Whether used topically or internally, gotu kola hastens recovery periods and reduces scar formation. Drink an infusion of 1 tbsp of the whole plant per cup of water, or take 2 ml of a 1:1 tincture or 60 mg in capsule form three times daily.
Horsetail: This is a slightly sweet, cooling, and astringent plant, closely related to ferns. The early spring stems are used to make medicine, as the mature plant contains higher levels of potentially irritating silica. Horsetail increases the tone and strength of connective tissue, while also acting as a mild diuretic. |
| There are few reports of nausea or cramping. gotu kola does have the potential to promote drowsiness; therefore you are advised to refrain from using this herb if you are currently taking other drugs that also promote drowsiness, such as sleep aids or cold medications.
Bilberry: This plant is packed with vitamin C and other powerful antioxidants. The tiny and delicate fruits of the plant may be helpful in managing edema. The effective dosage is 50-200 mg of bilberry extract three times daily. |
| Adaptogenic vitality formula: Combine equal parts of astragalus, ginseng, devil's club, licorice, and gotu kola to create a herbal formula that restores energy and supports immune function. Drink a decoction made from 1 tbsp of the combined dried herbs.
849
DIAGNOSIS
A phobia is an intense, often irrational, fear of a situation, activity, or object. Those who suffer from phobias react to the object feared in a manner that is out of proportion to the actual threat posed by it, if indeed there is a threat at all. |