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Find out more about Ayurveda

Gotu Kola

Hydrocotyle asiatica. Mandukaparni refers to its leaf-shape resembling the webbed feet of a frog. The leaf also looks like the cerebellum and is one of the finest examples of the ‘doctrine of signatures’ as Gotu kola is traditionally renowned for its intellect promoting, nervous system soothing and general mind enhancing properties.

Common Name

Gotu kola (S), Indian pennywort (E), Kula kudi (H)

Latin Name

Centella asiatica – Folium (Apiaceae)

Sanskrit

Mandukaparni

Bio-medical Action

Alterative, nervine, anti-pyretic, mind tonic, anti-spasmodic, analgesic

Dosage

1–30g/day as an infusion, 3–15ml/day of a 1:3 @ 25% tincture or 25ml/day fresh juice.

Notes

•	Hydrocotyle refers to the aquatic habitat of this perennial creeper and the cup-like shape of the leaves. Another Sanskrit name Manduki means that ‘like a frog’ it is always near water. It thrives throughout India and Sri Lanka. There is both a small leaf
•	Gotu Kola is the Singhalese name.
•	As Gotu Kola grows alongside rivers, many of which are heavily polluted in India, make sure that your supply is cultivated.
•	There is a fair amount of Ayurvedic debate as to whether Bacopa monnieri or Centella/Hydrocotyle asiatica is the real Brahmi. According to The Ayurvedic Formulary of India Bacopa is Brahmi and Centella/Hydrocotyle is Mandukaparni. There seems to be some d
•	An excellent herb for rejuvenating and restoring cerebral function often taken with ghee to enhance this effect.
•	One of the great meditator herbs. High in sattva.
•	Its prabhava is to optimise brain function (medhya).
•	It is best used as a cold extraction as heat can destroy its properties.
•	Fresh herb juice is considered the strongest way to use Gotu Kola, so if you are using dried herb the leaves must be vital and green to ensure efficacy.

Contraindications

Large doses can be narcotic and cause a vata headache or dizziness. Caution during pregnancy.

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