Centella asiatica: the anti-depression plant that boosts the brain

Centella asiatica, also known as Gotu kola, is a medicinal plant beneficial for the brain, skin and circulation.

See also :
Medicinal plants in Thailand: samoune phaille

Description of Centella asiatica

Thai name : Bo bok - บัวบก
The leaf (yawn): Baille bo bok

Other names : Gotu kola, Antanan, Pegaga, Brahmi

It is a creeping perennial that thrives in marshy soils and is native to Asia and Oceania.

It consists of thin green to pink stolons.

The soft-textured green leaves are reniform and have a 20 cm long petiole.

The small (- 3 mm) hermaphrodite flowers are pink and green, arranged in umbels near the surface of the ground.

Each flower is partially contained in a bract. It has 5 stamens and 2 styles.

The plant matures in three months and is eaten in its entirety (including the roots).

Use and medicinal properties of Centella asiatica

Centella asiatica is a brain tonic, stimulating intelligence and memory.

This plant helps to combat stress and depression and improves reflexes.

Centella asiatica can relieve high blood pressure and helps the body defend itself against various toxins.

It is used to treat rheumatism, blood diseases, heart failure, urinary tract infections and venereal diseases.

It is also a mild diuretic that can help reduce swelling in the limbs and aid elimination for those suffering from water retention.

Centella asiatica is also beneficial for the circulatory system, improving blood circulation and strengthening the veins.

It has been used to treat phlebitis, cramps and varicose veins.

Externally, it allows faster healing of wounds.

Use in Thailand

The Thai drink it for its tonic properties and teenagers drink it to fight acne.

You will find it sold by the bunch in markets and offered as a drink mixed with ice and sugar in many establishments.

Precautions

Pregnant and nursing women should not consume Centella Asiatica.

In some people there may be a risk of an allergic reaction, and photosensitisation reaction (reduce exposure to light and sun).

May cause drug interaction with antidiabetic and cholesterol-lowering drugs.

Anecdotes about Centella asiatica

In the 17th century, Gotu kola was regularly consumed in salads and as an infusion by a Chinese man named Li Ching-Yun, who was reputed to have lived for almost two hundred years.

It is known as 'tiger grass' in India, because big cats roll in it to heal themselves when injured.

You can find them at the best price on Iherb.