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Herbal Glossary | Medicinal Glossary | Herbal Preparations | Ayervedic Formulas | Chinese Formulas Gotu Kola
Scientific Names
Common Names
Parts Usually UsedSeeds, aerial parts Description of Plant(s) and CultureA low creeping vine. Where FoundCultivated in the United States. Native to Asia and the South Pacific. Commonly grows in
the Himalayas. Medicinal PropertiesAlterative, antipyretic, diuretic, febrifuge, antispasmodic, nervine,
sedative, tonic Biochemical InformationCatachol, espicatechol, magnesium, theobromine, and vitamin K Legends, Myths and StoriesGotu Kola was probably first used in India, where it is part of the Ayurveda, the traditional herbal medicine. It was also mentioned in the Shennong Herbal compiled in China about 2,000 years ago. In recent years it has become popular in the West. Probably the most important rejuvenative herb in Ayurvedic medicine. It is said to increase intelligence, longevity, memory; it decreases senility and aging. It fortifies the immune system, both cleansing and feeding it. Gotu Kola is used by yogis as food for meditation. A cup of the herbal
tea can be taken with honey before meditation. UsesA mildly bitter herb that stimulates the central nervous system, aids in the elimination of excess fluids, shrinks tissues, decreases fatigue and depression. Used for rheumatism, neuralgia, blood diseases, congestive heart failure, sore throat, tonsillitis, colds, coughs, swelling due to phlebitis, hay fever, leg cramps, swelling of the legs, hepatitis, epilepsy, premature aging, senility, leprosy, syphilis, eczema, psoriasis, malaria, a blood purifier, urinary tract infections, venereal disease, measles, insomnia, nervous and distressed emotions, and stress. Acts as a diuretic. May neutralize blood acids and lower body temperature. Good for liver and heart function. May promote hair growth when combined with eclipta. Gotu Kola is known as the "memory herb". It stimulates circulation
to the brain. Given for forgetfulness or confusion. Considered to
be one of the best nerve tonics and many people use Gotu Kola to increase
learning ability. It promotes mental calm and clarity and assists
in the practice of yoga and meditation. Formulas or DosagesCapsules: take 1 capsule up to 3 times daily. Extract: mix 5 to 10 drops in liquid. Take 3 times per day. WarningDo not use during pregnancy. One manufacturer cautions to avoid this herb if an over-active thyroid is diagnosed. High doses can cause headaches or aggravate itching, and even temporary
loss of consciousness.
Resource LinksLiveStrong.com: Medicinal Uses for Brahmi LiveStrong.com: Gotu Kola & High Blood Pressure LiveStrong.com: Brahmi & Fertility University of Maryland Medical Center: Gotu Kola Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Gotu Kola Bibliography
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Brahmi (Sanskrit name)
Planetary Herbology
, by Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., O.M.D., Lotus Press, PO Box 325, Twin Lakes. WI 53181., Copyright 1988, published 1992
, by Penelope Ody, Dorling Kindersley, Inc, 232 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016, First American Edition, copyright 1993Copyright © 1996-2010 Lynn DeVries, all rights reserved.