Gotu Kola or Sentela, activates nervous system and brain, enhances memory and circulation.
Other Names: Centella asiatica, Asian Sentella, Gotu Kola, Gotu Kola.
The ancient use of Gotu kola or Sentela, or Hydrocotyl, is recorded in Chinese medicine and botany “Shen-Nong Herbal” from the 1st-2nd century. AD In many books it is referred to as the “elixir of youth” or the “elixir of life”, as one legend says, saying that a herbalist who ate the herb daily lived for over 200 years.
In India Gotu Kola Sentela (Hydrocotyl) is considered perhaps the most ‘spiritual’ of all herbs. It grows in specific areas of the Himalayas and is used by yogis to improve meditation.
It is said to develop the crown chakra, the energy center at the top of the head and balance the right and left hemispheres of the brain. It is considered as one of the most important refreshing herbs in Ayurvedic medicine.
Basic Properties of Gotu Kola
Nervous system stimulant, stimulating blood circulation especially in the extremities and brain, anti-inflammatory, stimulates collagen production.
Uses of Gotu Kola
To enhance memory, against Alzheimer’s, for Spiritual stimulation, in anxiety and Depression, venous circulation problems, externally used for wound healing, for psoriasis and burns. Gotu kola is also used for fatigue and psychiatric disorders.
In general, it activates the central nervous system and restructures energy reserves.
As a tonic for the nervous system, Gotu Kola is recommended for nervous disorders (such as epilepsy, dementia). It is believed to fight stress and depression, activate mental powers, increase libido, prevent a possible nervous breakdown and improve reflexes.
The main active ingredient it contains are triterpenoid compounds. Saponins, also known as triterpenoids, are phytochemicals found in vegetables, legumes and herbs.
The “brain” tonic
As a brain tonic, it is believed to enhance intelligence and support the healthy functioning of memory, a fact proven by modern studies.
In one study, children who took half a gram of Gotu Kola extract powder every day for a year showed a significant improvement in their mental level. After six months, there was a significant improvement in their intelligence, cognitive function and concentration.
How does it work
Gotu kola contains certain chemicals that appear to reduce inflammation as well as blood pressure in the veins while strengthening the venous walls. Gotu kola also appears to increase collagen production, which is important for wound healing and stretch marks.
The fact is that Gotu Kola is a well-studied herb and the vast majority of its healing and healing properties, including its ability to prolong life, have been documented and validated by the scientific community.
How to use Gotu Kola
Leaves and gaseous parts of the plant as an infusion: Add half a teaspoon to a cup of boiled water for 10-15 ′. Strain and drink up to 3 times a day.
To improve venous circulation, you need to use Sentela for 4-8 weeks.
Rich in nutrients, gotu kola is a nutritious plant that is sweet and bitter in taste and is often eaten in a variety of Asian dishes. It is usually consumed as a green salad, which is eaten raw and sold as fresh juice in many Asian countries.
A typical dish consists of chopped Gotu Kola leaves, onions, lemon juice, chili and coconut flakes. Gotu kola is known throughout Asia for its calming effect.
5 grams (half to one teaspoon) 2 times a day Gotu Kola powder with water 1-2 hours after meals. Take the first dose after breakfast. As with any new herbal product, it is advisable to start slowly and slowly increase the dosage as you become familiar with the effects of the herb on your mind and body.
Gotu Kola is safe for long-term use, but many Ayurvedic doctors recommend that you stop using it for two to four weeks between periods of extended use.
- For the respiratory tract: Boil the powder and make a decoction, add a little pepper powder and sugar and drink for a few weeks
- For rejuvenation: Boil Gotu Kola powder 1-2 tablespoons in organic milk and drink it
- For General Health and Endurance: Mix Gotu Kola Powder with ginger powder in equal proportions and eat ½ teaspoon twice a day
- For healthy brain functions: Mix Gotu Kola with natural bee honey and a small amount of Ghee, or drink it plain with milk
Special precautions
Gotu Kola interacts with drugs that act as sedatives of the central nervous system for this and should not be co-administered.
Increased sedation and drowsiness may occur.
Do not use Sentela if you are taking medicines that adversely affect liver function because there is an interaction and liver damage may occur. It should not be consumed by people with diabetes or diabetes.
External use of Sentela during breastfeeding is considered safe but not internal use which should be avoided due to lack of adequate data on its safety.
