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

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

See also:
Medicinal plants in Thailand: samoune phaille

Description of Centella asiatica

Thai name: Bo bok – บัวบก
The leaf (yawns): Yawns bo bok

Other names: Gotu kola, Antanan, Pegaga, Brahmi

It is a creeping perennial plant that likes marshy soils, it is native to Asia and Oceania.

It is made up of thin green to pink stems forming stolons.

The soft-textured green leaves are kidney-shaped and have a 20 cm petiole.

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

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

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

Uses and medicinal properties of Centella asiatica

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

This plant helps 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 problems in the limbs and aid elimination for those suffering from water retention.

Centella asiatica is also beneficial for the circulatory system, it improves blood circulation, while strengthening the veins.

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

Externally it allows wounds to heal faster.

Use in Thailand

Thais drink it for its tonic properties, and teenagers drink it to fight acne.

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

Precautions

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not consume Centella Asiatica.

In some people there may be a risk of allergic reaction and photosensitivity reaction (reduce exposure to light and sunlight).

Risk of causing 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, reputed to have lived almost two hundred years.

It is nicknamed "tiger grass" in India because the big cats roll in it to heal themselves when injured.

You will find them at the best price on Iherb .