Description
Gotu Kola
Botanical Name: Centella asiatica
Gotu Kola is found growing wild over large areas of North America, South America, Asia and Australia.
Thai people use gotu kola as a drink sweetened with palm sugar, Sri Lankans make a sambal with the leaves, fresh coconut and lime juice. Sprinkle the leaves into salads, curries and soups.
Research has shown it contains substance that increases collagen production and improves circulation, which speeds healing of wounds and burns and reduces scarring.
Centella asiatica is also known as pennywort or the arthritis herb and many people have relieved their arthritis by eating 2 -3 leaves a day. It has anti-inflammatory properties as well as improving circulation and strengthening blood vessels giving rise to its use for varicose and spider veins, haemorrhoids and for improving memory and mental clarity.
Because of the many traditional uses of the herb it is often used as a general tonic.
Growing Conditions
Gotu Kola is a creeping perennial which prefers a moist position and full sun to filtered sunlight.
