Gotu kola is an herb that helps to benefit the healing of damaged tissues. It is not related to the kola nut and does not contain caffeine. Gotu kola stimulates the production of connective tissue including keratin; the material that your body uses to repair breaks in the skin.
Main Health Benefits of Gotu Kola
As mentioned, Gotu Kola has great benefits for the skin, while it can help repair the skin barrier, when applied topically it can also:
- Treat Wounds
- Fight Skin Infection
- Alleviate Psoriasis Symptoms
- Heal Surgical Wounds
Key Constituents Found in Gotu Kola
Gotu kola has some antioxidant properties. Free radicals are unstable molecules that in their bid to become more stable must bump into healthy cells and cause damage. Gotu kola’s antioxidant properties neutralize free radicals and therefore, reduce damage to the skin and vascular system. This makes gotu kola a good herb for conditions of vein laxity and poor circulation such as varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
Gotu kola also increases the levels of antioxidants that are found in the liver. These molecules help the body to process and excrete toxins. Finally, gotu kola increases circulation and has been used to aid memory, alleviate fatigue and increase libido.
Gotu Kola Supplement Options
Gotu kola is commonly purchased as tea, encapsulated herb or tincture. Gotu kola products should be standardized as an assurance of the amount of active compounds they contain. Gotu kola can be found in combination products for memory, sexual functioning and vein support. Topically tea, creams and salves can be used to help heal wounds or treat skin conditions.
Potential Contraindications & Cautions
Individuals taking sedatives or anti-anxiety medication, because gotu kola may add to their effect, should use gotu kola supplements with caution. Gotu kola should not be used during activities that require alertness. Gotu kola should not be used in pregnancy because it can cause miscarriage. Topical application of gotu kola may cause contact dermatitis.
