Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is referred to as “Brahmi” in Sanskrit, which means “wisdom.” One of the most intelligent plants in the plant world, if this plant could take the form of a human. The tropical islands of the Indian Ocean and India are the original home of gotu kola.
Because Bengal tigers have been known to roll in the grass after a battle, the moniker “Tiger’s Grass” is sometimes used in India. This plant has a reputation for promoting long life since it is believed to be consumed by elephants. The Centella asiatica plant’s leaves are said to benefit the Crown chakra according to Ayurvedic theory. It is said to improve immunity and memory. So what is Gotu Kola, actually? What are the benefits for your skin? We will talk about them in this article.
How To Use Gotu Kola In Your Skincare?
You may profit in a variety of ways from this mover, shaker, and dream-skin creator. Snack your way to a very comprehensive strategy! Even a few leaves a day will renew your skin from the inside out and reinforce your body with their rich nutrients.
However, there’s still more! By using it topically, you may provide your skin a direct route to the variety of abundant advantages this herb offers. The market is flooded with skincare items that include gotu kola, including many Fleur & Bee products. So tidy! Using gotu kola, facial cleanser is a mild face cleanser that gently removes dirt and impurities from the skin while calming and smoothing it.
Benefits Of Gotu Kola For Skin
1.Rich In Antioxidants
Premature aging of the skin and other skin problems, such as skin cancer, are strongly linked to oxidative stress. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase are two enzymes that normally exhibit antioxidant activity and lower the body’s free radical count. Initiation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 also reduces oxidative stress.
The triterpenes in gotu kola, such as Asiatic acid, madecassoside, and madecassic acid, have been shown to stimulate SOD and GPX enzymes and activate Nrf2, resulting in increased antioxidant activity in the body.
2. Hydrates Skin
The skin’s protective properties are diminished and damaged with the passage of time, the onset of age-related illnesses, and prolonged exposure to the environment. Because of this, your skin will dry up and become dehydrated.
Gotu kola’s bioactive components, including triterpenoid saponins, triterpenic steroids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and essential amino acids, aid in repairing the skin barrier and halting transepidermal water loss. By boosting the amount of water in the stratum corneum, we can provide the impression that your skin is full and healthy.
3. Tightens Loose Skin
Loss of skin elasticity is a normal part of aging. Triterpenoid saponins and polyacetylenes, two types of phytochemicals found in gotu kola, have been shown to increase collagen formation, decrease collagen breakdown, and stimulate fibroblast proliferation. It helps the skin retain its suppleness and provides structural support.
4. Good For Skin Cleansing
Ayurvedic research confirms gotu kola’s impressive cleansing abilities. It disinfects the skin and gets rid of the toxic ama toxins that are the root of many skin problems. Also, its astringent properties help get rid of excess oil on the skin, which helps keep your pores clean.
5. Helps Wound Healing
Burns and wounds may be healed magically with gotu kola. Its antibacterial qualities stop new infections from developing, while its anti-inflammatory activities lessen swelling at the wound site. It soothes the skin and enhances blood flow to the wound, promoting rapid healing.
It increases fibroblast growth and collagen synthesis, hastening wound healing and re-epithelialization. As a result, the healing area’s tensile strength is increased, and wound degradation is prevented.
6. Fights Acne
Since ancient times, gotu kola has been used to treat a number of skin conditions, including “Yuvana Pidakas” or acne. Inflamed acne lesions are treated by its anti-inflammatory qualities. Its antioxidant and antibacterial qualities stop bacterial growth in your pores and kick-start rapid wound healing. Additionally, it stops the development of acne scars and blemishes.
7. Treats Stress Marks
Your skin’s health might suffer significantly as a result of stress, despair, and worry. Chronic stress is often linked to skin aging and the development of facial stress marks. The relaxing, antidepressant, and anti-aging qualities of gotu kola are highly praised. You may use the herb internally or topically to combat the different harmful effects of stress on your skin.
8. Treats Skin Infections
Antibacterial and antiviral activities found in gotu kola may help cure a variety of skin ailments. Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and other bacterial types may be successfully combatted by gotu kola’s asiatic acid.
A 2014 research found that the herpes virus was treated with extracts of three traditional Ayurvedic herbs: Curcuma longa L., gotu kola (Centella asiatica), and Strobilanthes crispus L.
9. Treats Eczema And Psoriasis
Triterpenes found in gotu kola, including asiaticoside and madecassoside, are thought to be the source of its therapeutic benefits.
Due to gotu kola’s capacity to block proinflammatory cytokines and hence decrease inflammation, it is used to treat inflammatory diseases including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (eczema). Apart from reducing inflammation, gotu kola also eases pruritus and symptoms similar to erythema.
10. Treats Cellulite, Scars & Stretch Marks
Skin imperfections including stretch marks, scars, and cellulite may be unsightly. Cellulite is caused by fat cells that have been deposited under the skin, and gotu kola’s capacity to promote the production of new collagen and improve blood circulation aids in this process.
According to studies, phytochemicals like the saponins in gotu kola may control collagen synthesis to prevent the development of wound scars.
A 2015 research found that using gotu kola extracts for 6 to 12 weeks decreased the visibility of abdominal stretch marks in roughly 15 participants.
11. Reduces Skin Cancer Risk
Your skin is shielded from UV radiation that might cause melanoma by pentacyclic triterpenoids like the Asiatic acid in gotu kola. It stops the progression of melanoma by causing the cancer cells to undergo apoptosis, or cell death. By lowering oxidative stress and avoiding healthy cell death, it also safeguards damaged cells.
FAQ
Q: What are the side effects of gotu kola for skin?
A: Gotu kola is generally considered safe for most people when used topically. However, like any herbal remedy, there is a possibility of experiencing side effects. Common side effects may include skin irritation, redness, itching, or rash. It’s important to perform a patch test before using gotu kola on larger areas of your skin and discontinue use if you experience any adverse reactions. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist before using gotu kola topically.
Q: How to use gotu kola for scars?
A: Gotu kola can be used topically to help reduce the appearance of scars. Here’s a simple method to use it:
Cleanse the affected area: Start by cleaning the scarred area with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry.
Apply a gotu kola cream or ointment: Look for a high-quality cream or ointment containing gotu kola extract. Apply a thin layer directly to the scar and gently massage it into the skin.
Massage the scar: Using your fingertips, massage the scar in circular motions for a few minutes to improve blood circulation and help the absorption of the gotu kola.
Repeat regularly: For best results, apply the gotu kola cream or ointment at least twice a day, consistently, over a period of several weeks or months. It’s important to be patient, as scar reduction takes time and results can vary depending on the individual.
Q: How long does gotu kola take to work for skin?
A: The time it takes for gotu kola to show visible effects on the skin can vary from person to person. Consistent and long-term use is usually required to see significant results. Some individuals may notice improvements in the texture and appearance of their skin within a few weeks, while others may require several months of regular application. It’s important to maintain a consistent skincare routine and have realistic expectations when using gotu kola for skin benefits.
Q: Is gotu kola anti-fungal?
A: Gotu kola does not possess strong antifungal properties. While it has been traditionally used in certain cultures to treat fungal infections, scientific research on its specific antifungal effects is limited. If you suspect a fungal infection on your skin, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. They may recommend specific antifungal medications or topical treatments that are known to be effective against fungal infections.
