Gotu Kola, also known as Mandukaparni in Sanskrit, is an ancient Ayurvedic herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is used both as a culinary and medicinal herb and is often regarded as the “herb of longevity”.
Gotu Kola is rich in various nutrients such as vitamin B, vitamin C, iron, calcium, proteins, antioxidants belonging to the carotenoid and flavonoid groups, etc. Therefore, it is known to be highly effective in boosting brain health, promoting liver and kidney health, and alleviating stress and anxiety.
What are the Ayurvedic Properties of Gotu Kola?
According to Ayurveda, Gotu Kola has Tikta (bitter) taste and Laghu (light) quality. It is cold in potency and is highly effective in pacifying Kapha and Pitta Dosha in the body. However, it is known to balance all three Doshas and therefore is considered beneficial for everyone.
What are the Benefits of Gotu Kola?
- Improves Cognitive Function:
Gotu Kola is rich in Asiatic acid, which helps to provide neuroprotective effects to the brain. It also helps to boost memory and slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety:
Gotu Kola is rich in nutrients that help to boost the oxygen supply to the brain. Therefore, it is considered highly beneficial in combating stress, anxiety and depression. Furthermore, Gotu Kola is one of the most effective Ayurvedic herbs in treating sleep disorders such as insomnia. As sleep deprivation is one of the leading causes of stress and anxiety, Gotu Kola, by inducing sleep, helps to treat stress and stress-related disorders.
- Boosts Digestion:
Packed with proteins and vitamin C, Gotu Kola is highly beneficial in improving digestion and promoting gut health. It also helps to treat stomach aches and prevent acidity in gastric ulcers.
- Aids in the Treatment of Varicose Veins:
In varicose veins, inflammation obstructs the blood flow to the tissues. Gotu Kola is rich in iron and helps remove plaque from the blood vessels, thereby improving the blood flow in the body. In addition, it also helps to regulate blood pressure levels in the body, which further helps in treating varicose veins.
- Relieves Joint Pain:
The anti-inflammatory effects of Gotu Kola help to reduce swelling and other symptoms of joint pain and arthritis. Additionally, it is also rich in antioxidants which help to remove toxins from the body and strengthen the bones, thereby promoting joint health.
- Helps in the Detoxification of the Body:
According to Ayurveda, Gotu Kola is one of the best herbs to remove harmful toxins from the body and prevent many diseases, especially liver and kidney diseases.
Why is Gotu Kola Called the Herb of Longevity?
Gotu Kola helps to rejuvenate the mind and promote brain health. In Ayurvedic texts, Gotu Kola is regarded as a herb that can rejuvenate the whole life. It is highly effective in pacifying all three Doshas in the body and removing Ama or toxins. With reduced Ama, all the Dhatus or tissues receive better nourishment and support the physical and mental health of the person while promoting longevity.
How to Use Gotu Kola?
The best way to use Gotu Kola, according to Ayurveda, is in the form of juice or dry powder. Alternatively, you can also grind Gotu Kola leaves and make Chutneys. Nowadays, even tablets and capsules are readily available in the market, which serves as the more convenient option.
Side Effects and Precautions
Gotu Kola does not have any adverse side effects. However, excessive consumption of Gotu Kola may cause drowsiness. Therefore, you should take it in moderate quantities only after consulting an Ayurvedic doctor. Although Gotu Kola is considered safe for everyone, pregnant and lactating mothers should only use the herb under medical supervision.
Takeaway
Gotu Kola is one of the best Ayurvedic herbs to consume. It helps to detoxify the body and promote your physical and mental health. Regular consumption of Gotu Kola can help prevent many diseases in the body and promote longevity.
