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Gotu Kola Skin Benefits: This Ancient Healer Can Help Turn Your Skin Around
Call it gotu kola, centella asiatica, Indian pennywort, brahmi, or spade leaf. It is an ancient healing plant, and it’s making a comeback in the modern science of preventing skin aging.
Gotu Kola aka Centella asiatica (often just called centella) is rich in amino acids, beta carotene, fatty acids, and numerous potent phytochemicals. These are extracts have been found to calm inflammation, speed wound healing, stimulate new cell growth, build collagen, and improve circulation.
Lately, thanks to a new round of research into gotu kola's skin benefits, which include wound-healing and skin rejuvenation properties, this herb has been turning up in a skin treatments.
Here's what history and science tells us about some amazing gotu kola skin benefits and why you'll want to include this ingredient in your skin care routine.
Our Firming and Anti Aging Toner Spray contains gotu kola (centella asiatica), and it's just the thing for setting cosmetics or a quick pick me up during the day.
Gotu Kola: A Long History of Skin Healing
A member of the Parsley family, Gotu Kola is used in cooking and as a medicine in India and China. In South India, the elephant’s long memory is attributed to Gotu Kola, a favorite pachyderm food. One of the first mentions of Gotu Kola can be found in the Chinese “Shennong Herbal ” dating to 200 to 100 BC. There it is noted as the “Fountain of Life.”
In Ayurveda, Gotu Kola is referred to as “a pharmacy in one herb,” and is cherished for brain, nervous system, and memory support.
Few medicinal plants have as long a history as centella asiatica; there's evidence it was used even by prehistoric man. Known in Chinese medicine as gotu kola, it's listed among the "miracle elixirs of life" and mentioned in legends as the herb that helped a famous sage live past 200.
In India, centella has a host of names including mandukparni, jalbrahmi, and just plain brahmi (not to be confused with bacopa monnieri, another ayurvedic plant also called brahmi). A centerpiece of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, it's used to treat infected wounds, syphilis, eczema, psoriasis, lupus, and female disorders.
In England, where it's known by the lowly name pennywort for it's coin-shaped leaves, it was one of the earliest treatments for leprosy. In France, centella was first identified and accepted as a pharmaceutical agent in the 1800s for its use treating diarrhea, dysentery, and female issues including infertility.
Gotu Kola Skin Benefits: What the Science Shows Us
An overview in the Indian Journal of Medicine calls gotu kola a "potential herbal cure-all" while a research summary published in Phytomedicine, they state that "Gotu kola has been subjected to quite extensive experimental and clinical investigations and show promising conclusions for repairing and rejuvenating skin."
Recently, researchers delving into how gotu kola heals wounds have identified specific plant chemicals called triterpenoid saponins (more specifically asiaticoside, brahmoside, brahminoside, madecassoside and madecassic or madasiatic acid) that have been shown to help heal wounds by boosting antioxidants, increasing the blood supply to the area and strengthening the skin.
There's also good evidence that gotu kola helps repair veins. Recent research shows that gotu kola, unlike some herbal extracts, is able to penetrate the skin well enough to be utilized effectively.
Scientists are experimenting with applying gotu kola to treat burns, prevent scars, treat psoriasis, and decrease stretch marks.
In fact, gotu kola's circulation-boosting abilities are so powerful that it's been used as an effective treatment for varicose veins and broken capillaries and to break down cellulite by shrinking the connective tissues that bind fat cells under the skin.
Our Firming and Anti Aging Toner Spray contains gotu kola (centella asiatica), and it's just the thing for setting cosmetics or a quick pick me up during the day.
10 Gotu Kola Skin Benefits
Wound Healing
For centuries, Gotu Kola has been used to heal wounds and keep them clean. This is especially handy for those who like to periodically use a chemical peel or microneedle treatment. A recent study has shown that just 1% of gotu kola in a product can decrease the severity of a topical infection considerably.
Eczema & Psoriasis Healing
Gotu kola has been increasingly recognized for its benefits in managing skin conditions such as eczema. The rich phytochemistry of gotu kola, including triterpenoids and flavonoids, contributes to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which are particularly beneficial for soothing and repairing irritated skin. Incorporating gotu kola into skincare routines can aid in reducing inflammation, relieving itching, and promoting wound healing associated with eczema. Furthermore, its ability to strengthen the skin's barrier function makes it an attractive option for managing this chronic condition. Research indicates that the topical application of gotu kola extracts can improve skin hydration and elasticity, further supporting its potential as a natural remedy for eczema. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using gotu kola to address eczema or any other medical condition, especially for individuals with allergies or sensitivities. The promising skin benefits of gotu kola underscore its potential as a valuable addition to holistic skincare approaches.
Scar Reduction
Gotu kola has gained recognition for its potential in scar reduction. This herb has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is believed to promote wound healing and reduce the appearance of scars. Gotu kola contains compounds known as triterpenoids, which are thought to help in the production of collagen, a key protein for skin health. These properties make it a popular ingredient in skincare products aimed at reducing scars and promoting overall skin health. In addition to its scar-reducing benefits, gotu kola is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can contribute to improved skin texture and appearance. Overall, the use of gotu kola in skincare highlights its potential to address concerns related to scarring and promote healthier skin.
Collagen Production
Gotu kola, also known as Centella asiatica, has gained attention for its potential benefits in promoting collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin, and its production tends to decrease as we age, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Gotu kola contains compounds such as triterpenoids, which are believed to support collagen synthesis. This natural herb has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is now gaining recognition in the skincare industry for its potential to improve skin health.
Firming and Toning
Gotu Kola is known for its ability to promote firming and toning of the skin. Its active compounds, including asiaticoside and madecassoside, have been found to stimulate collagen synthesis, which can help improve the elasticity and firmness of the skin. Gotu kola can contribute to a more youthful and toned complexion. Its natural properties make it a gentle yet effective option for those looking to enhance the firmness and tone of their skin.
Elasticity Improvement
The skin benefits of gotu kola are well-documented, with one of its key advantages being improved skin elasticity. This herb contains triterpenoids, which stimulate the production of collagen, a protein that maintains skin elasticity and firmness. By promoting collagen synthesis, gotu kola helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in smoother and more supple skin. In addition, its antioxidant properties protect the skin from free radical damage, further contributing to improved skin elasticity and overall skin health. Incorporating gotu kola into skincare routines through topical applications or dietary supplements can be a valuable addition for individuals seeking to maintain youthful and resilient skin.
Acne & Sebum Reduction
Studies have shown that gotu kola possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can be beneficial for managing acne. Its ability to reduce inflammation can help in calming redness and swelling associated with acne, while its antioxidant properties can protect the skin from oxidative stress, which is often linked to the development of acne. Additionally, gotu kola has been found to have a positive impact on sebum production. By regulating sebum levels, it can help in preventing excess oiliness that can contribute to acne breakouts. Incorporating products containing gotu kola into a skincare routine may offer a natural and gentle approach to managing acne and reducing sebum production, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking botanical solutions for skin concerns.
UVB Protection
Gotu kola is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the skin from damage caused by harmful UV rays. The active compounds in gotu kola, such as asiaticoside and madecassoside, have been found to have photoprotective properties, helping to defend the skin against the damaging effects of sun exposure. Incorporating products containing gotu kola into your skincare routine may provide an additional layer of defense against UV radiation. However, it's important to note that while gotu kola can offer some level of protection, it should not be used as a substitute for sunscreen. When used in conjunction with sun protection measures, such as wearing sunscreen and seeking shade, gotu kola can contribute to a comprehensive approach to safeguarding the skin from UV damage.
Antioxidant Protection
Gotu Kola has powerful antioxidant properties. When it comes to skincare, Gotu Kola offers a range of benefits that contribute to antioxidant protection. The herb is rich in triterpenoids, which are compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These antioxidants help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, reducing the signs of aging and promoting a youthful complexion. Its ability to enhance blood circulation also aids in delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to the skin, further supporting its overall health. With its proven skin benefits, including antioxidant protection, Gotu Kola is increasingly utilized in various skincare products aimed at promoting a healthy and radiant complexion.
Reduced Inflammation
Gotu kola is packed with potent compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a promising natural remedy for skin inflammation. Its high levels of triterpenoids aid in reducing swelling and redness, providing relief from conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Moreover, the herb is known for its soothing and cooling effects, which can help calm irritated skin. Overall, incorporating gotu kola into skincare routines can offer numerous benefits, making it a valuable ingredient for those seeking natural solutions to reduce skin inflammation and maintain healthy, radiant skin.
Our Firming and Anti Aging Toner Spray contains gotu kola (centella asiatica), and it's just the thing for setting cosmetics or a quick pick me up during the day.
Conclusion
Gotu kola is an important ingredient to include in your skin care routine, with many benefits. It's a great way to keep your skin calm, rejuvenated, younger, and evenly toned.
