Gotu kola

Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Apr 06, 2001 by Sharon Crawford

Gotu kola also has positive effects on various skin problems. Animal research has shown that tripenoid asiaticoside may help wounds heal quicker. Other studies showed that gotu kola helped in healing surgical wounds of the ear, nose, and throat, and promoted healing of episiotomies, gangrene, skin grafts, and some skin ulcers. Asiaticoside can also toughen skin, hair, and nails. Research has shown that asiaticoside may provide treatment for leprosy. Leprosy-causing bacteria are coated in a wax-like substance that the immune system can't penetrate. However, gota kola disintegrates this substance, allowing the immune system to attack the bateria.

Clinical trials also show that gotu kola's tripenoids, when purified, can lessen the ravages of scleroderma. Gotu kola can reduce hardening of the skin, decrease joint pain, and increase finger movement.

Gotu kola extracts can heal second- and third-degree burns from boiling water or gas explosions if the burn is treated immediately. Either topical application or intramuscular injections can stop the effects of skin infections from burns and can stop or reduce skin shrinkage, inflation, and scarring.

Gotu kola extract might be effective in fighting tumors. However, researchers are cautious because animal and human studies need to be completed.

Today, gotu kola is often eaten in a salad. It can also be made into a tea by using 0.5-1 tsp (2.5-5 ml) of gotu kola in 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water. The plant is steeped for 10-15 minutes and the tea is then drunk. This amount can be drunk up to three times a day. Because of its bitter taste, the tea can be enhanced with honey or lemon to taste.

For a poultice on wounds or skin problems, gotu kola leaves can be crushed and applied, or a tincture may be used. A poultice can also be made from gotu kola tea.

For scleroderma, suggestions include 70 mg twice a day. The usual dosage is 0.5-1 g three times daily, a standardized extract dosage is 60-120 mg a day, and a liquid extract approximately 0.5-1 teaspoon can be taken daily.

Children under two years old, pregnant women, and people with epilepsy should avoid gotu kola. Fair-skinned people and others who have had an allergic reaction to sunlight or other ultraviolet light sources should avoid these sources if they take gotu kola.

A rash is the most common side effect when gotu kola is taken internally or applied topically. If injected, some pain and bruising may occur at the injection sight. The asiaticoside component could be a mild skin carcinogen. It is not wise to apply gotu kola topically over a long period of time. The plant may also cause mild headaches or nausea. As with any supplement, consultation with a healthcare professional should occur before beginning treatment.

Gotu kola should not be mixed with oral diabetes medication or drugs such as Lipitor, Lopid, Mevacor, and Zocor, all of which lower cholesterol. Gotu kola can raise cholesterol. It is also best not to mix gotu kola with alcohol or sedatives.

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