Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

According to a Singhalese proverb “Two leaves a day will keep old age away”. Gotu kola has been used as a medicinal herb for thousands of years in India, China and Indonesia to detoxify the body. Its ability to heal wounds, improve mental clarity, and treat skin conditions such as leprosy and psoriasis were important reasons for its extensive early use. It has also been called one of the "miracle elixirs of life" because legend has it that an ancient Chinese herbalist lived for more than 200 years as a result of using the herb. Recent studies confirm some of these traditional uses and also suggest possible new applications for Gotu Kola such as, boosting memory and intelligence, easing anxiety, and speeding wound healing.

This Asian species is reputed to bring long life to the user. According to the Sinhalese proverb, "Two leaves a day will keep old age away." As the story goes, people in Sri Lanka noticed that elephants, animals known for their longevity, included Gotu Kola leaves in their diet. Extrapolation suggested that this creeping herb of the Southeast Asian swamps might be good for almost anything that could ail a human, as well. In Sri Lanka it is eaten as a salad, and in Vietnam it is considered an edible weed. It has been part of Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Gotu Kola also grows in Madagascar, parts of southern Africa, and some parts of China. In Chinese medicine, it is known as luo de da or ji xue cao and is used to lower fever, promote urination, and "detoxify" the body.

The leaves and other aboveground parts of the plant are used. Gotu Kola contains several saponins, including brahmoside and brahminoside, and a number of alkaloids. Madecassoside and asiaticoside appear to contribute to the plant's medicinal activity. It also contains flavonols, amino acids, fatty acids, sterols, saccharides, and some mineral salts.