Last verified: 17 days ago
Gotu Kola
Also known as: Centella asiatica, Indian Pennywort, Brahmi (sometimes), CA
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Traditional herb with early evidence for anxiety relief and wound healing. Most human data is limited or mixed.
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What it does
Gotu Kola is a leafy plant used for centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. Early human research suggests a single dose may reduce the startle response — a marker of anxiety — and...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose
What the Science Says
Gotu Kola is a leafy plant used for centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. Early human research suggests a single dose may reduce the startle response — a marker of anxiety — and animal studies show it may protect the liver, stomach lining, and brain from damage. It appears in many combination supplements targeting skin health, cognitive function, and stress, though most strong evidence comes from animal or lab studies rather than large human trials.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to boost memory or cognition in healthy adults — one combination supplement study actually favored placebo on one cognitive test. Won't melt thigh fat on its own; the topical study used it alongside diet and exercise with multiple other ingredients. No solid human evidence it treats Alzheimer's, depression, or liver disease. Don't expect dramatic results from typical supplement doses.
Evidence-Based Benefits
A single dose reduced the acoustic startle response — a physiological marker of anxiety — in healthy adults.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 12g single oral dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Shows potential as a natural anti-scarring agent, though clinical evidence remains limited and inconsistent.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Reduced liver damage markers and inflammation in rats with chemically induced liver injury.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 100–200 mg/kg/day (animal data only)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Reduced stomach lining damage and inflammation in rats given an NSAID-induced gastric injury model.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 50–250 mg/kg (animal data only)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic data provided in the available studies. Oral administration was used in human and animal studies, but absorption rates were not reported.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Allergic contact dermatitis has been reported from topical Centella asiatica extract — patch test before applying to skin
- Most compelling evidence (liver protection, neuroprotection, gut protection) comes from animal studies only — human translation is unproven
- Commonly sold in multi-ingredient blends, making it impossible to isolate Gotu Kola's individual contribution
- No standardized human dose established — products vary widely in extract concentration and active compound content
- Potential interaction with blood-thinning medications noted in combination supplement research — consult a doctor if on anticoagulants
Products Containing Gotu Kola
See how Gotu Kola is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Gotu Kola do?
Traditional herb with early evidence for anxiety relief and wound healing. Most human data is limited or mixed.
What is the effective dose of Gotu Kola?
No established dose
Is Gotu Kola safe?
Allergic contact dermatitis has been reported from topical Centella asiatica extract — patch test before applying to skin
What doesn't Gotu Kola do?
Not proven to boost memory or cognition in healthy adults — one combination supplement study actually favored placebo on one cognitive test.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25