Gotu Kola

🌿 Herb Profile: Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

Overview:Often called the “herb of longevity,” Gotu Kola is a low-growing perennial known for its fan-shaped leaves and powerful therapeutic properties. Traditionally used to support mental clarity, skin healing, and circulation, this gentle yet potent plant has earned a place in wellness rituals across Asia and beyond.

🌱 Planting

• Zone: USDA 7–11

• Sun: Partial shade to full sun (prefers filtered light in hotter climates)

• Soil: Moist, loamy, and rich in organic matter

• Spacing: 12 inches apart; grows as groundcover

• Sow: Spring after frost, or indoors with a head start

🌼 Care

• Watering: Keep consistently moist; it loves humidity

• Fertilizing: Monthly with balanced organic fertilizer during the growing season

• Growth Habit: Spreads quickly via runners—ideal for containers to control growth

• Winter Care: In colder zones, overwinter indoors or treat as an annual

✂️ Harvesting

• Best Time: When leaves are mature but tender—throughout the growing season

• Parts Used: Primarily the leaves; sometimes stems

• Method: Snip young leaves; use fresh or dry in a shaded, ventilated area

• Storage: Store dried leaves in a cool, airtight container

✅ Benefits

• Enhances memory, focus, and cognitive function

• Promotes wound healing and skin regeneration

• Supports healthy circulation and vein strength

• Traditionally used to relieve anxiety and reduce inflammation

⚠️ Cautions

• May cause headaches or upset stomach in sensitive individuals

• Not recommended during pregnancy or for young children without medical advice

• High doses or long-term use may interfere with liver function

• Always consult a healthcare provider if using alongside medications

Fun Fact: Gotu Kola is often eaten fresh in Sri Lankan salads and is said to have been consumed by yogis to enhance meditation and spiritual insight.