There are some herbs that I would not be without in my dispensary. Most of these tend to be relatively well known native British plants, but the medicinal flora of other parts of the world are also represented amongst my 'indespensibles'. Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica or Hydocotle asiatica) is one of these.
No relation to the stimulating Kola nut (Cola nitida). As its Latin name suggests this small perennial plant is native to many parts of Asia, but also to South Africa and the South Pacific and has been used in the medicinal traditions of these regions for centuries.
It is a herb I use mainly for skin problems as an always reliable all round skin supporter. It has a well earned reputation for being healing and anti-inflammatory. Consequently it is a herb that can be used to assist with a range of skin conditions including acne, urticaria (nettle rash), dermatitis, ulcers, scleroderma and psoriasis. This is not the least of it, especially where the skin is concerned, as it is an adaptogenic herb and nerve tonic which makes it particularly useful for those skin conditions (and there are many) that seem to be intimately connected with stressed and nervous states. It is also a good vulnerary herb (wound healer) as it promotes the rebuilding of damaged skin, so is good to use topically for wounds and some burns and I have known of it being used to help with some slow to heal sores.
In Ayurvedic medicine, its actions as a tonic for the nervous system are greatly prized and it is used as a herb to rejuvenate and strengthen the nerves and brain cells, helping reduce anxiety (it is a sedative), improve intelligence and memory, and retard senility. It may also be useful to help with fatigue, so could be used in some herbal formulations for fibromyalgia and other related conditions.
It may also be helpful for varicose veins and where there is ulceration and varicose eczema. Some small studies have indicated that it may improve venous insufficiency in the lower limbs, by improving vascular tone, reducing swelling and supporting micro-circulation. Some cases of phlebitis might also benefit from Gotu Kola.
All in all, it an herb with a multiple of different uses within herbal medicines for a wide number of conditions, I would not be without it!
This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Don't take too much of anything for too long and discontinue immediately if you have any ill effects. . Take care when using wild plants or any herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable source.
References
Kuhn M, Winston D. Herbal Therapy and Supplements: A Scientific and Traditional Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott; 2001
University of Maryland http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/gotu-kola-000253.htm
Catherine Schofield BSc MNIMH Herbalist Cheshire Herbs and Herbal Medicine