Skip to main content

Gotu Kola

Scientific Name(s): Centella asiatica (L.) Urban
Common Name(s): Asiatic pennywort, Brahmi, Gotu kola, Hydrocotyle, Indian Pennywort, Jalbrahmi, Manduukaparani, Spadeleaf, Talepetrako, Tsubokusa

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 22, 2024.

Clinical Overview

Use

Gotu kola has potential cardiovascular and dermatological (eg, wound healing) effects. Clinical data are limited.

Dosing

The recommended daily dose of titrated extracts of C. asiatica standardized for asiaticoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid is 60 to 120 mg.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to C. asiatica or any of its components.

Pregnancy/Lactation

Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation; gotu kola may have emmenagogue effects.

Interactions

None well documented.

Adverse Reactions

Contact dermatitis has been documented in some clinical trials.

Toxicology

Three cases of hepatotoxicity have been reported with C. asiatica administration for 20 to 60 days.

Scientific Family

Botany

C. asiatica is a perennial, herbaceous, creeping plant of the genus Centella (Apiaceae).Centella 2007, Zheng 2007 The plant grows abundantly in shady, moist, or marshy areas and is distributed widely in many parts of the world, including India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, South Africa, Australia, China, Indonesia, and Japan.Centella 2007, Satake 2007, Zheng 2007

The common name "brahmi" has also been applied to Bacopa monniera (bacopa) and Merremia gangetica.6

History

Gotu kola has been used in traditional medicinal systems for centuries.Zheng 2007 In India, the plant has been used to treat dermatitis, diabetes, cough, cataracts and other eye conditions, and to improve memory. In Europe, an infusion of the aerial parts of the plant was used to purify the blood and treat wounds, ulcers, dermatitis, and hypertension. A similar infusion has been used in Indonesia and Brazil to help improve memory. In Malaysia, the plant was used to treat respiratory ailments such as bronchitis and asthma, as well as gastric complaints (including dysentery), kidney disorders, urethritis, and edema. In Malaya, an infusion from the plant is sold as a tonic and cold beverage to treat liver ailments, tuberculosis, and blood in the urine. Historically, Japan valued the plant for its diuretic and detoxicant properties.Centella 2007, Satake 2007, Zheng 2007 Sri Lankans noticed that elephants, known for their longevity, ate the leaves of the plant. Believing the leaves promoted long life, the suggested "dosage" was a few leaves each day.Natarajan 1973 In South China, the plant is used as a dietary supplement to promote health and immune system function.Li 2009 Traditionally, gotu kola has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to relieve anxiety and promote relaxation.Wijeweera 2006 Preparations have been used in the management of hemorrhoids.Abascal 2005

Gotu kola should not be confused with the dried seed of Cola nitida (Vent.) Schott. and Endl. (also known as kolanuts, kola, or cola), the plant used in cola beverages. C. nitida contains caffeine and is a stimulant. Gotu kola does not contain caffeine and has sedative properties.Natarajan 1973

Chemistry

Triterpenoids are the major components responsible for the medicinal activity of the gotu kola plant.Li 2009, Zheng 2007 However, the plant species also contains more than 70 constituents, including polyacetylenes, flavonoids, flavones, sterols, and lipids.Rafamantanana 2009, Subban 2008, Yu 2006 While wound healing and vascular effects are primarily a result of triterpene saponins and sapogenins, CNS and uterorelaxant actions seem to be due to actions of its saponin glycosides brahmoside and brahminoside.Gohil 2010 Below-ground parts of the plant contain small amounts of at least 14 different polyacetylenes.Schulte 1973 A phytochemical study revealed the presence of amino acids, flavonols, fatty acids, alkaloids, sterols, saccharides, and inorganic salts.Castellani 1981 A study of powdered gotu kola by microscopic and chemical identification methods has also been conducted.Sappakun 1982

Uses and Pharmacology

Many studies focus on the triterpenoids asiaticoside, centelloside, madecassoside, and asiatic acid.Randriamampionona 2007 Asiaticoside has anxiolytic,Liang 2008 anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiulcer, and wound healing properties.Kimura 2008 Asiaticoside and madecassoside may be effective in treating arthritis.Liu 2008 Asiatic acid induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in several types of cancer in rats.Barbosa 2008

Antiulcer activity

Animal data

In a study in rats, antiulcer activity of C. asiatica was comparable with that of famotidine and sodium valproate.Chatterjee 1992

A 600 mg/kg dose of C. asiatica given to rats twice daily for 5 days protected against induced gastric ulceration. The effects were comparable to those of sucralfate 250 mg/kg given orally once a day for 5 days. C. asiatica increased gastric juice mucin secretion and mucosal cell glycoproteins and decreased cell shedding, which led to an increase in the mucosal barrier.Sairam 2001

Cancer

C. asiatica may protect against oxidative damage resulting from doxorubicin administration. C. asiatica's antioxidant properties are believed to result from its phenolic compounds. The antioxidant activity of the plant may also be beneficial in reducing radiation-induced toxicity.

Animal and in vitro data

Studies have been conducted in rodents to evaluate the effect of C. asiatica on chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity and gamma radiation, with a protective role reported (as measured by mitochondrial enzymes and respiratory marker enzymes).Gnanapragasam 2007, Joy 2009 Similarly, effects on taste aversion due to radiation therapy was evaluated in rats, with positive findings reported.Jagetia 2007, Shobi 2001

C. asiatica extract may be effective in killing cultured cancer tumor cells.Babu 1995 The extract, a 5:1 concentrate extracted with methanol, was effective at a level of 100 mcg/mL. In addition, no toxic effects were detected in normal human lymphocytes. The triterpene asiaticoside from C. asiatica may induce apoptosis and enhance the anticancer activity of vincristine in several cancer cell lines.Huang 2004 An in vitro study documented that asiatic acid isolated from C. asiatica induced apoptosis and inhibited colon cancer cell growth by interfering with the mitochondrial membrane potential in a concentration- and time-dependent manner.Tang 2009

Cardiovascular effects

Animal data

Limited studies in rodents have demonstrated cardioprotective effects in reperfusion injury and chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity, possibly due to antioxidant activity of C. asiatica.Chandrika 2015

Rats fed C. asiatica powder had significantly (P<0.05) lower serum low-density lipoprotein and triglycerides and higher high-density lipoprotein compared with controls. However, cholesterol levels of rats fed either C. asiatica extract or powder were higher compared with controls.Hussin 2009 An in vivo rabbit study documented that madecassoside protected against myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury,Li 2007 possibly through antioxidant, antilipid, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptosis activity.Bian 2008

Clinical data

In a study of patients with severe venous hypertension, ankle swelling, and lipodermatosclerosis (N=40), treatment with total triterpenic fraction of C. asiatica (TTFCA) 60 mg tablets twice daily for 8 weeks resulted in a decrease (P<0.05 vs placebo) in flux at rest and rate of ankle swelling at 8 weeks. The decrease in capillary filtration was associated with improvement in signs and symptoms (P<0.05).Cesarone 2001 A study by the same group of researchers compared use of TTFCA 60 mg twice daily with placebo or no treatment in patients with diabetic microangiopathy (N=50). After 6 months of treatment with TTFCA, there was a significant improvement in microcirculatory parameter and a decrease in capillary permeability compared with those receiving placebo or no treatment. Also, TTFCA demonstrated protection against deterioration of microcirculation due to diabetic microangiopathy.Cesarone 2001 In another study of 52 patients with venous hypertension, TTFCA doses of either 30 mg or 60 mg 3 times daily for 4 weeks decreased capillary filtration rate, ankle circumference, and ankle edema compared to placebo and healthy subjects; decreases were greater in the group receiving the higher 60 mg dose.Cesarone 2001, Cesarone 2001, De Sanctis 2001

A study assessing the role of C. asiatica in the prevention of edema and changes in circulation measures for patients traveling on an airline flight of at least 3 hours reported findings supportive of a role for C. asiatica.Cesarone 2001

CNS effects

Animal data

Studies in rodents have evaluated anxiolytic properties of gotu kola.Mohandas 2009, Wijeweera 2006 One study reported a dose-dependent effect, with results dependent on the extraction process applied.Wijeweera 2006

Cognitive function was improved in other tests in mice; dose-dependent effects were observed, with higher doses exhibiting CNS depressant effects.Chen 2005, Mohandas 2005, Rao 2005

Suggested mechanisms of action include inhibition of acetylcholinesterase,Dhanasekaran 2009, Mukherjee 2007 effects on certain signalling pathways,Xu 2008 and increasing dendritic length (intersections) and branches of neurons of the amygdala, thereby enhancing learning and memory.Gadahad 2008, Lokanathan 2016, Mohandas 2006, Mohandas 2009, Rao 2005

In a Parkinson mouse model, asiatic acid from gotu kola was neuroprotective via activation of several signalling pathways.Nataraj 2017

An aqueous extract of C. asiatica demonstrated anticonvulsant effects in mouse models of tonic-clonic and absence seizures at a dose of 400 mg/kg and in tonic-clonic seizures at a dose of 200 mg/kg.Deka 2017

Clinical data

In an 8-week, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot study of 28 elderly patients, C. asiatica extract enhanced spatial and numeric working memory and attention and improved mood. Patients were administered 250, 500, or 750 mg of C. asiatica in capsule form or placebo. The most important changes occurred in patients treated with 750 mg/day. The underlying mechanism may involve C. asiatica modulation of dopamine and norepinephrine in the prefrontal cortex and acetylcholine and serotonin in the hippocampus, leading to improved numeric and spatial memory.Wattanathorn 2008

Dermatological applications

A review of potential applications of C. asiatica extracts has been published.Bylka 2014 The wound healing effect of the glycoside madecassoside may involve several mechanisms, including antioxidant activity and effects on collagen synthesis and angiogenesis. Asiaticoside appears to stimulate wound healing by inducing type 1 collagen synthesis and promoting angiogenesis.Bylka 2014

Animal and in vitro data

In vitro studies have demonstrated activity against certain human pathogens (including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrio cholerae, and Shigella), which may contribute to healing.Mamtha 2004, Zaidan 2005 Studies in rodents have evaluated the effects of gotu kola extracts on wound healing, including traumatic and burn-related injury and corticosteroid-induced changes; the majority of study findings were supportive of a place in therapy.Bylka 2014, Hong 2005 Proangiogenic changes and expression of cytokines have been described as possible mechanisms of action.Bylka 2014, Widgerow 2000

Clinical data

Clinical studies have evaluated the effects of various topical formulations and extracts of C. asiatica in wound healing.Brinkhaus 2000 In a study in patients with diabetes (n=200), 2 capsules of C. asiatica extract (50 mg of asiaticoside per capsule) taken 3 times a day resulted in improved wound healing and reduced scar formation compared to placebo.Bylka 2014

In a study of 75 patients referred to a hospital in Iran for burns, topical application of Centriderm ointment (a derivative of C. asiatica) was compared to silver sulfadiazine. All objective and subjective signs and mean of re-epithelialization and complete healing were significantly better in the Centriderm group compared to the silver sulfadiazine group (P<0.05).Saeidinia 2017

A small clinical study of 25 patients reported increased skin firmness and elasticity following application of an herbal gel extract containing C. asiatica.Sommerfeld 2007 Similar results were reported in other studies.Ahshawat 2008, Martelli 2000

Diabetes

Animal data

In a small study involving fasted rabbits, C. asiatica extract 2 and 4 g/kg was administered to assess effects on blood glucose. Extract administration resulted in a 26% and 35% mean deviation in blood glucose levels for rabbits receiving 2 g/kg and 4 g/kg, respectively (P<0.05).Chandrika 2015, Mutayabarwa 2003

In mice with alloxan-induced diabetes, asiaticoside, whole plant extracts, and saponin-rich fractions of C. asiatica decreased fasting glucose levels and glucose levels after oral glucose tolerance tests, while nonsaponin fractions had no effect. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was also significantly lower than controls, but only at the highest doses used.Fitrianda 2017

A dried ethanolic extract of gotu kola dosed at 300 mg/kg decreased glucose levels in diabetic rats.Maulidiani 2016 Lipid levels and other metabolic change markers also normalized with long-term treatment.

Ethanol-induced gastric ulceration

Animal data

An extract of C. asiatica was given orally to rats in doses of 0.05, 0.25, or 0.5 g/kg prior to ethanol administration. Premedication with C. asiatica resulted in a 58% to 82% dose-dependent reduction in the formation of gastric lesions. These results were believed to be attributable to strengthening of the gastric mucosa and to a reduction in free radicals.Cheng 2000

Insecticide

Experimental data

A topical form of C. asiatica had repellant activity against malarial vector Anopheles stephensi in studies conducted in mosquito cages.Rahuman 2008, Rajkumar 2007, Senthilkumar 2009

Joint disease

Animal and in vitro data

Asiaticoside reduced articular cartilage degeneration and inflammatory cell infiltration in mice with collagen-induced arthritis. The underlying mechanism may involve inhibiting lymphocyte proliferation and reducing cyclooxygenase-2 and cytokine expression.Li 2007, Yun 2008 Madecassoside also provided a protective effect in joint destruction by potentially regulating abnormal humoral and cellular immunity.Liu 2008 The results of an in vitro and in vivo study demonstrated that a standardized C. asiatica fraction inhibited zymosan-induced cartilage damage by potentially inhibiting nitric oxide productionHartog 2009; nitric oxide plays a role in cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis.

Dosing

Gotu kola is available in numerous doseforms, including capsules, creams, powders, liquids,Wongfhun 2009 and teas. Commercial manufacturers list numerous dosage regimens for gotu kola.

The recommended daily dose of titrated extracts of C. asiatica standardized for asiaticoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid is 60 to 120 mg.Brinkhaus 2000, Centella 2007

Topical formulations and C. asiatica extracts at various concentrations have been used in clinical trials evaluating its dermatological and wound healing effects.Ahshawat 2008, Martelli 2000, Saeidinia 2017, Sommerfeld 2007 In a clinical trial of diabetic patients, 2 capsules of C. asiatica extract (50 mg of asiaticoside per capsule) taken 3 times a day resulted in improved wound healing and reduced scar formation compared to placebo.Bylka 2014

In clinical studies of patients with venous hypertension or diabetic microangiopathy, 60 mg of TTFCA 2 to 3 times daily (treatment duration, 4 weeks to 6 months) has been used.Cesarone 2001, Cesarone 2001, De Sanctis 2001

The pharmacokinetics of the total triterpene fraction of gotu kola have been studied after single- and multiple-dose administration to healthy volunteers.Grimaldi 1990 Using a high-pressure liquid chromatography procedure for detection of asiatic acid, researchers found that after multiple-dose administration (2 doses), peak plasma concentration, area under the curve, and half-life were higher than those observed after single-dose administration. Pharmacokinetic studies have also been conducted in animals.Zheng 2009 Bioavailability of both madecassoside and asiaticoside are increased when given in a standardized gotu kola extract, compared to when given as sole ingredients.Hengjumrut 2017

Pregnancy / Lactation

Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation; gotu kola may have emmenagogue effects.Ernst 2002

Interactions

An in vitro study using human CYP isoforms demonstrated that the standardized C. asiatica extract ECa233 inhibited CYP3A4, 2C19, and 2B6, but not CYP1A2, 2C9, 2D6, or 2E1. The clinical relevance of this inhibition is unknown.Seeka 2012

No changes were observed in phase II drug metabolizing enzymes UDPGT, SULT, GST, and NQOR with varying Eca233 doses for 90 days.Seeka 2017

An in vitro study demonstrated antiplatelet aggregation activity of both unpurified and purified C. asiatica extracts.Lestari 2016 Activity was unconfirmed and clinical significance was not determined, but additive effects increasing bleeding risk are possible.

Antiepileptics

Theoretically, gotu kola may interact with drugs in the antiepileptic class. In a study investigating the interaction between oral C. asiatica ethyl acetate fraction and intraperitoneal antiepileptic drugs, the median effective doses of phenytoin, valproate, and gabapentin were 13, 104, and 310 mg/kg body weight, respectively; in the presence of C. asiatica ethyl acetate fraction, the corresponding values were 5, 29, and 79 mg/kg body weight, respectively.Vattanajun 2005 In an in vitro experiment, 1 mg/mL extracts from C. asiatica stimulated glutamic acid decarboxylase activity by more than 40%.Awad 2007

A beneficial interaction may exist with valproic acid; in rats, asiatic acid reduced the detrimental effects of valproic acid on spatial memory.Umka 2016

Adverse Reactions

Contact dermatitis has been reported by some patients using preparations of fresh or dried parts of the plant.Eun 1985 Patients who received subcutaneous injections rather than intramuscular injections experienced pain at the injection site and blackish discoloration of the subcutaneous tissues.

Sedative effects of C. asiatica extract in small animals have been attributed to its brahmoside and brahminoside constituents or saponin glycosides.Gohil 2010

Toxicology

Avoid use if hypersensitivity occurs with C. asiatica or any of its components.

Three cases of hepatotoxicity have been reported in patients using C. asiatica for 20 to 60 days. After the product was discontinued, improvement was noted. Two patients were unintentionally rechallenged with C. asiatica, which resulted in recurrent liver damage. Hepatotoxicity caused by apoptosis and alteration in the cell membrane due to the active constituents pentacyclic triterpenic saponosides was suspected.Jorge 2005

Several studies examined the protective effect of C. asiatica against several toxins, including lead,Ponnusamy 2008, Saxena 2006 arsenic,Flora 2007 and cyproterone acetate (genotoxic- and tumor-promoting agent).Siddique 2008 Other studies have reviewed the neuroprotective role of the plant species against neurotoxins.Shinomol 2008, Shinomol 2008

References

Disclaimer

This information relates to an herbal, vitamin, mineral or other dietary supplement. This product has not been reviewed by the FDA to determine whether it is safe or effective and is not subject to the quality standards and safety information collection standards that are applicable to most prescription drugs. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this product. This information does not endorse this product as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this product. It does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this product. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. You should talk with your health care provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using this product.

This product may adversely interact with certain health and medical conditions, other prescription and over-the-counter drugs, foods, or other dietary supplements. This product may be unsafe when used before surgery or other medical procedures. It is important to fully inform your doctor about the herbal, vitamins, mineral or any other supplements you are taking before any kind of surgery or medical procedure. With the exception of certain products that are generally recognized as safe in normal quantities, including use of folic acid and prenatal vitamins during pregnancy, this product has not been sufficiently studied to determine whether it is safe to use during pregnancy or nursing or by persons younger than 2 years of age.

Abascal K, Yarnell E. Botanical treatments for hemorrhoids. Altern Complement Ther. 2005;11(6):285-289.
Ahshawat MS, Saraf S, Saraf S. Preparation and characterization of herbal creams for improvement of skin viscoelastic properties. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2008;30(3):183-193.18452435
Awad R, Levac D, Cybulska P, Merali Z, Trudeau VL, Arnason JT. Effects of traditionally used anxiolytic botanicals on enzymes of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system. Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2007;85(9):933-942.18066140
Babu TD, Kuttan G, Padikkala J. Cytotoxic and anti-tumour properties of certain taxa of Umbelliferae with special reference to Centella asiatica (L.) Urban. J Ethnopharmacol. 1995;48(1):53-57.8569247
Barbosa NR, Pittella F, Gattaz WF. Centella asiatica water extract inhibits iPLA2 and cPLA2 activities in rat cerebellum. Phytomedicine. 2008;15(10):896-900.18455381
Bian GX, Li GG, Yang Y, et al. Madecassoside reduces ischemia-reperfusion injury on regional ischemia induced heart infarction in rat. Biol Pharm Bull. 2008;31(3):458-463.18310910
Bradwejn J, Zhou Y, Koszycki D, Shlik J. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the effects of Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) on acoustic startle response in healthy subjects. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2000;20(6):680-684.11106141
Brinkhaus B, Lindner M, Schuppan D, Hahn EG. Chemical, pharmacological and clinical profile of the East Asian medical plant Centella asiatica. Phytomedicine. 2000;7(5):427-448.11081995
Bylka W, Znajdek-Awiżeń P, Studzińska-Sroka E, Dańczak-Pazdrowska A, Brzezińska M. Centella asiatica in dermatology: an overview. Phytother Res. 2014;28(8):1117-1124.24399761
Castellani C, Marai A, Vacchi P. The Centella asiatica [in Italian]. Boll Chim Farm. 1981;120:570-605.
Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. [spadeleaf]. USDA, NRCS. 2007. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 14 June 2007). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA. Accessed June 14, 2007.
Centella asiatica. Altern Med Rev. 2007;12(1):69-72.17397269
Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, De Sanctis MT, et al. Effects of the total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica in venous hypertensive microangiopathy: a prospective, placebo-controlled, randomized trial. Angiology. 2001;52(suppl 2):S15-S18.11666117
Cesarone MR, Incandela L, De Sanctis MT, et al. Evaluation of treatment of diabetic microangiopathy with total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica: a clinical prospective randomized trial with a microcirculatory model. Angiology. 2001;52(uppl 2):S49-S54.11666124
Cesarone MR, Incandela L, De Sanctis MT, et al. Flight microangiopathy in medium- to long-distance flights: prevention of edema and microcirculation alterations with total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica. Angiology. 2001;52(suppl 2):S33-S37.11666121
Chandrika UG, Prasad Kumarab PA. Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica): nutritional properties and plausible health benefits. Adv Food Nutr Res. 2015;76:125-157.26602573
Chatterjee TK, Chakraborty A, Pathak M, Sengupta GC. Effects of plant extract Centella asiatica (Linn.) on cold restraint stress ulcer in rats. Indian J Exp Biol. 1992;30(10):889-891.1293014
Chen Y, Han T, Rui Y, Yin M, Qin L, Zheng H. Effects of total triterpenes of Centella asiatica on the corticosterone levels in serum and contents of monoamine in depression rat brain [in Chinese]. Zhong Yao Cai. 2005;28(6):492-496.16209267
Cheng CL, Koo MW. Effects of Centella asiatica on ethanol induced gastric mucosal lesions in rats. Life Sci. 2000;67(21):2647-2653.11104366
Darnis F, Orcel L, de Saint-Maur PP, Mamou P. Use of a titrated extract of Centella asiatica in chronic hepatic disorders (author's transl) [in French]. Sem Hop. 1979;55(37-38):1749-1750.230597
De Sanctis MT, Belcaro G, Incandela L, et al. Treatment of edema and increased capillary filtration in venous hypertension with total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica: a clinical, prospective, placebo-controlled, randomized, dose-ranging trial. Angiology. 2001;52(suppl 2):S55-S59.11666125
Deka D, Chakravarty P, Purkayastha A. Evaluation of the anticonsulvant effect of aqueous extract of Centella asiatica in albino mice. Intl J Pharm Pharmaceu Sci. 2017;9(2):312-314.
Dhanasekaran M, Holcomb LA, Hitt AR, et al. Centella asiatica extract selectively decreases amyloid beta levels in hippocampus of Alzheimer's disease animal model. Phytother Res. 2009;23(1):14-19.19048607
Dutta T, Basu UP. Crude extract of Centella asiatica and products derived from its glycosides as oral antifertility agents. Indian J Exp Biol. 1968;6(3):181-182.5718539
Ernst E. Herbal medicinal products during pregnancy: are they safe? BJOG. 2002;109(3):227-235.11950176
Eun HC, Lee AY. Contact dermatitis due to madecassol. Contact Dermatitis. 1985;13(5):310-313.2936544
Fam A. Use of titrated extract of Centella asiatica (TECA) in bilharzial bladder lesions. Int Surg. 1973;58(7):451-452.4717500
Fitrianda E, Sukandar EY, Elfahmi, Adnyana IK. Antidiabetic activity of extract, fractions, and asiaticoside compound isolated from Centella asiatica Linn. leaves in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Asian J Pharmaceu Clin Res. 2017;10(10):268-272.
Flora SJ, Gupta R. Beneficial effects of Centella asiatica aqueous extract against arsenic-induced oxidative stress and essential metal status in rats. Phytother Res. 2007;21(10):980-988.17600859
Gadahad MR, Rao M, Rao G. Enhancement of hippocampal CA3 neuronal dendritic arborization by Centella asiatica (Linn) fresh leaf extract treatment in adult rats. J Chin Med Assoc. 2008;71(1):6-13.18218554
Gnanapragasam A, Yogeeta S, Subhashini R, Ebenezar KK, Sathish V, Devaki T. Adriamycin induced myocardial failure in rats: protective role of Centella asiatica. Mol Cell Biochem. 2007;294(1-2):55-63.16786185
Gohil KJ, Patel JA, Gajjar AK. Pharmacological review on Centella asiatica: A potential herbal cure-all. Indian J Pharm Sci. 2010;72(5):546-556.21694984
Grimaldi R, De Ponti F, D'Angelo L, et al. Pharmacokinetics of the total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica after single and multiple administrations to healthy volunteers. A new assay for asiatic acid. J Ethnopharmacol. 1990;28(2):235-241.2329813
Haftek M, Mac-Mary S, Le Bitoux MA, et al. Clinical, biometric and structural evaluation of the long-term effects of a topical treatment with ascorbic acid and madecassoside in photoaged human skin. Exp Dermatol. 2008;17(11):946-952.18503551
Hartog A, Smit HF, van der Kraan PM, Hoijer MA, Garssen J. In vitro and in vivo modulation of cartilage degradation by a standardized Centella asiatica fraction. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2009;234(6):617-623.19307458
Hengjumrut P, Anukunwithaya T, Tantisira MH, Tantisira B, Khemawoot P. Comparative pharmacokinetics between madecassoside and asiaticoside presented in a standardised extract of Centella asiatica, ECa 233 and their respective pure compound given separately in rats. Xenobiotica. 2018;48(1):18-27.2800146210.1080/00498254.2016.1273562
Hong SS, Kim JH, Li H, Shim CK. Advanced formulation and pharmacological activity of hydrogel of the titrated extract of C. asiatica. Arch Pharm Res. 2005;28(4):502-508.15918527
Huang YH, Zhang SH, Zhen RX, Xu XD, Zhen YS. Asiaticoside inducing apoptosis of tumor cells and enhancing anti-tumor activity of vincristine [in Chinese]. Ai Zheng. 2004;23(12):1599-1604.15601545
Hussin M, Hamid AA, Mohamad S, Saari N, Bakar F, Dek SP. Modulation of lipid metabolism by Centella asiatica in oxidative stress rats. J Food Sci. 2009;74(2):H72-H78.19323754
Jagetia CG. Radioprotective potential of plants and herbs against the effects of ionizing radiation. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2007;40(2):74-81.18188408
Jorge OA, Jorge AD. Hepatotoxicity associated with the ingestion of Centella asiatica [in English and Spanish]. Rev Esp Enferm Dig. 2005;97(2):115-124.15801887
Joy J, Nair CK. Protection of DNA and membranes from gamma-radiation induced damages by Centella asiatica. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2009;61(7):941-947.19589237
Kimura Y, Sumiyoshi M, Samukawa K, Satake N, Sakanaka M. Facilitating action of asiaticoside at low doses on burn wound repair and its mechanism. Eur J Pharmacol. 2008;584(2-3):415-423.18353310
Klövekorn W, Tepe A, Danesch U. A randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, half-side comparison with a herbal ointment containing Mahonia aquifolium, Viola tricolor and Centella asiatica for the treatment of mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2007;45(11):583-591.18077922
Lee J, Jung E, Kim Y, et al. Asiaticoside induces human collagen I synthesis through TGFbeta receptor I kinase (TbetaRI kinase)-independent Smad signaling. Planta Med. 2006;72(4):324-328.16557473
Lestari ABS, Fudholi A, Nugroho AK, Setyowati EP. In vitro antiplatelet aggregation activity of Centella asiatica (L.) urban ethanolic extract. Intl J Pharmaceu Clin Res. 2016;8(4):280-283.
Li GG, Bian GX, Ren JP, Wen LQ, Zhang M, Lü QJ. Protective effect of madecassoside against reperfusion injury after regional ischemia in rabbit heart in vivo [in Chinese]. Yao Xue Xue Bao. 2007;42(5):475-480.17703767
Li HZ, Wan JY, Zhang L, Zhou QX, Luo FL, Zhang Z. Inhibitiory action of asiaiticoside on collagen-induced arthritis in mice [in Chinese]. Yao Xue Xue Bao. 2007;42(7):698-703.17882951
Li H, Gong X, Zhang L, et al. Madecassoside attenuates inflammatory response on collagen-induced arthritis in DBA/1 mice. Phytomedicine. 2009;16(6-7):538-546.19135346
Liang X, Yan Ni Huang, Si Wei Chen, et al. Antidepressant-like effect of asiaticoside in mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2008;89(3):444-449.18325568
Liu M, Dai Y, Li Y, et al. Madecassoside isolated from Centella asiatica herbs facilitates burn wound healing in mice. Planta Med. 2008;74(8):809-815.18484522
Liu M, Dai Y, Yao X, et al. Anti-rheumatoid arthritic effect of madecassoside on type II collagen-induced arthritis in mice. Int Immunopharmacol. 2008;8(11):1561-1566.18652917
Lokanathan Y, Omar N, Ahmad Puzi NN, Saim A, Hj Idrus R. Recent Updates in Neuroprotective and Neuroregenerative Potential of Centella asiatica. Malays J Med Sci. 2016;23(1):4-14.27540320
MacKay D, Miller AL. Nutritional support for wound healing. Altern Med Rev. 2003;8(4):359-377.14653765
Mamtha B, Kavitha K, Srinivasan KK, Shivananda PG. An in vitro study of the effect of Centella asiatica [Indian pennywort] on enteric pathogens. Indian J Pharmacol. 2004;36(1):41.
Martelli L, Berardesca E, Martelli M. Topical formulation of a new plant extract complex with refirming properties. Clinical and non-invasive evaluation in a double blind trial. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2000;22(3):201-206.18503475
Maulidiani, Abas F, Khatib A, et al. Metabolic alteration in obese diabetes rats upon treatment with Centella asiatica extract. J Ethnopharmacol. 2016;180:60-69.26775274
Mohandas KG, Muddanna S, Gurumadhra S. Centella asiatica (linn) induced behavioural changes during growth spurt period in neonatal rats. Neuroanatomy. 2005;4:18-23.
Mohandas Rao KG, Muddanna Rao S, Gurumadhva Rao S. Centella asiatica (L.) leaf extract treatment during the growth spurt period enhances hippocampal CA3 neuronal dendritic arborization in rats. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2006;3(3):349-357.16951719
Mohandas Rao KG, Muddanna Rao S, Gurumadhva Rao S. Enhancement of amygdaloid neuronal dendritic arborization by fresh leaf juice of Centella asiatica (Linn) during growth spurt period in rats. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2009;6(2):203-210.18955230
Mukherjee PK, Kumar V, Houghton PJ. Screening of Indian medicinal plants for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. Phytother Res. 2007;21(12):1142-1145.17639556
Mutayabarwa CK, Sayi JG, Dande M. Hypoglycaemic activity of Centella asiatica (L) Urb. East Cent Afri J Pharm Sci. 2003;6(2):30-35.
Nataraj J, Manivasagam T, Justin Thenmozhi A, Essa MM. Neurotrophic effect of asiatic acid, a triterpene of Centella asiatica against chronic 1-methyl 4-phenyl 1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine Hydrochloride/probenecid mouse model of Parkinson's disease: the role of MAPK, PI3K-Akt-GSK3β and mTOR signalling pathways. Neurochem Res. 2017;42(5):1354-1365.28181071
Natarajan S, Paily PP. Effect of topical Hydrocotyle asiatica in psoriasis. Indian J Dermatol. 1973;18(4):82-85.4777768
Pointel JP, Boccalon H, Cloarec M, Ledevehat C, Joubert M. Titrated extract of Centella asiatica (TECA) in the treatment of venous insufficiency of the lower limbs. Angiology. 1987;38(1, pt 1):46-50.3544968
Poizot A, Dumez D. Modification of the kinetics of healing after iterative exeresis in the rat. Action of a triterpenoid and its derivatives on the duration of healing [in French]. C R Acad Sci Hebd Seances Acad Sci D. 1978;286(10):789-792.417867
Ponnusamy K, Mohan M, Nagaraja HS. Protective antioxidant effect of Centella asiatica bioflavonoids on lead acetate induced neurotoxicity. Med J Malaysia. 2008;63(suppl A):102.19025005
Qinna N, Taha H, Matalka KZ, Badwan AA. A new herbal combination, Etana, for enhancing erectile function: an efficacy and safety study in animals. Int J Impot Res. 2009;21(5):315-320.19494825
Rafamantanana MH, Rozet E, Raoelison GE, et al. An improved HPLC-UV method for the simultaneous quantification of triterpenic glycosides and aglycones in leaves of Centella asiatica (L.) Urb (APIACEAE). J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci. 2009;877(23):2396-2402.19349219
Rahuman AA, Venkatesan P, Gopalakrishnan G. Mosquito larvicidal activity of oleic and linoleic acids isolated from Citrullus colocynthis (Linn.) Schrad. Parasitol Res. 2008;103(6):1383-1390.18688644
Rajkumar S, Jebanesan A. Repellent activity of selected plant essential oils against the malarial fever mosquito Anopheles stephensi. Trop Biomed. 2007;24(2):71-75.18209711
Randriamampionona D, Diallo B, Rakotoniriana F, et al. Comparative analysis of active constituents in Centella asiatica samples from Madagascar: application for ex situ conservation and clonal propagation. Fitoterapia. 2007;78(7-8):482-489.17560738
Rao SB, Chetana M, Uma Devi P. Centella asiatica treatment during postnatal period enhances learning and memory in mice. Physiol Behav. 2005;86(4):449-457.16214185
Saeidinia A, Keihanian F, Lashkari AP, et al. Partial-thickness burn wounds healing by topical treatment: A randomized controlled comparison between silver sulfadiazine and centiderm. Medicine (Baltimore). 2017;96(9):e6168.28248871
Sairam K, Rao CV, Goel RK. Effect of Centella asiatica Linn on physical and chemical factors induced gastric ulceration and secretion in rats. Indian J Exp Biol. 2001;39(2):137-142.11480209
Sappakun N, Ungwitayatom J. Thai crude drugs: preparation and specifications. Part 13. Centella asiatica (L.). Warasan Phesatchasat. 1982;9:53-58.
Satake T, Kamiya K, An Y, Oishi Nee Taka T, Yamamoto J. The anti-thrombotic active constituents from Centella asiatica. Biol Pharm Bull. 2007;30(5):935-940.17473438
Saxena G, Flora SJ. Changes in brain biogenic amines and haem biosynthesis and their response to combined administration of succimers and Centella asiatica in lead poisoned rats. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2006;58(4):547-559.16597373
Schulte KE, Rücker G, Bary EA. Polyacetylenes from Hydrocotyle asiatica L [in German]. Arch Pharm (Weinheim). 1973;306(3):197-209.4699229
Seeka P, Niwattisaiwong N, Warinoicharoen, et al. Effects of the standardized extract of Centella asiatica ECa233 on human cytochrome P450. Thai J Pharm Sci. 2012;36:30-37.
Seeka P, Niwattisaiwong N, Tantisira MH, et al. Effects of the standardized extract of Centella asiatica ECa233 on hepatic phase II drug-metabolizing enzymes in rats. Thai J Pharm Sci. 2017;41(2):41-46.
Senthilkumar N, Varma P, Gurusubramanian G. Larvicidal and adulticidal activities of some medicinal plants against the malarial vector, Anopheles stephensi (Liston). Parasitol Res. 2009;104(2):237-244.18787842
Shetty BS, Udupa SL, Udupa AL, Somayaji SN. Effect of Centella asiatica L (Umbelliferae) on normal and dexamethasone-suppressed wound healing in Wistar Albino rats. Int J Low Extrem Wounds. 2006;5(3):137-143.16928669
Shinomol GK, Muralidhara. Effect of Centella asiatica leaf powder on oxidative markers in brain regions of prepubertal mice in vivo and its in vitro efficacy to ameliorate 3-NPA-induced oxidative stress in mitochondria. Phytomedicine. 2008;15(11):971-984.18539017
Shinomol GK, Muralidhara. Prophylactic neuroprotective property of Centella asiatica against 3-nitropropionic acid induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunctions in brain regions of prepubertal mice. Neurotoxicology. 2008;29(6):948-957.18930762
Shobi V, Goel HC. Protection against radiation-induced conditioned taste aversion by Centella asiatica. Physiol Behav. 2001;73(1-2):19-23.11399290
Shukla A, Rasik AM, Dhawan BN. Asiaticoside-induced elevation of antioxidant levels in healing wounds. Phytother Res. 1999;13(1):50-54.10189951
Shukla A, Rasik AM, Jain GK, Shankar R, Kulshrestha DK, Dhawan BN. In vitro and in vivo wound healing activity of asiaticoside isolated from Centella asiatica. J Ethnopharmacol. 1999;65(1):1-11.10350364
Siddique YH, Ara G, Beg T, Faisal M, Ahmad M, Afzal M. Antigenotoxic role of Centella asiatica L. extract against cyproterone acetate induced genotoxic damage in cultured human lymphocytes. Toxicol In Vitro. 2008;22(1):10-17.17719740
Sommerfeld B. Randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, split-face study on the clinical efficacy of Tricutan on skin firmness. Phytomedicine. 2007;14(11):711-715.17923398
Subban R, Veerakumar A, Manimaran R, Hashim KM, Balachandran I. Two new flavonoids from Centella asiatica (Linn.). J Nat Med. 2008;62(3):369-373.18404308
Tang XL, Yang XY, Jung HJ, et al. Asiatic acid induces colon cancer cell growth inhibition and apoptosis through mitochondrial death cascade. Biol Pharm Bull. 2009;32(8):1399-1405.19652380
Tenni R, Zanaboni G, De Agostini MP, Rossi A, Bendotti C, Cetta G. Effect of the triterpenoid fraction of Centella asiatica on macromolecules of the connective matrix in human skin fibroblast cultures. Ital J Biochem. 1988;37(2):69-77.3042688
Umka Welbat J, Sirichoat A, Chaijaroonkhanarak W, et al. Asiatic acid prevents the deleterious effects of valproic acid on cognition and hippocampal cell proliferation and survival. Nutrients. 2016;8(5).27213437
Vattanajun A, Watanabe H, Tantisira MH, Tantisira B. Isobolographically additive anticonvulsant activity between Centella asiatica's ethyl acetate fraction and some antiepileptic drugs. J Med Assoc Thai. 2005;88(suppl 3):S131-S140.16858951
Viala A, Cano JP, Durand A, et al. Animal study of the transcutaneous movement of the tritium-labelled active principles of Centella asiatica L. extract after administration in impregnated gauze or unguent [in French]. Therapie. 1977;32(5):573-583.613474
Wattanathorn J, Mator L, Muchimapura S, et al. Positive modulation of cognition and mood in the healthy elderly volunteer following the administration of Centella asiatica. J Ethnopharmacol. 2008;116(2):325-332.18191355
Widgerow AD, Chait LA, Stals R, Stals PJ. New innovations in scar management. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2000;24(3):227-234.10890953
Wijeweera P, Arnason JT, Koszycki D, Merali Z. Evaluation of anxiolytic properties of Gotukola—(Centella asiatica) extracts and asiaticoside in rat behavioral models. Phytomedicine. 2006;13(9-10):668-676.16488124
Wongfhun P, Gordon M, Apichartsrangkoon A. Flavor characterization of fresh and processed pennywort (Centella asiatica L.) juices. Food Chem. 2009;119(1):69-74.
Xu Y, Cao Z, Khan I, Luo Y. Gotu kola (Centella Asiatica) extract enhances phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element binding protein in neuroblastoma cells expressing amyloid beta peptide. J Alzheimers Dis. 2008;13(3):341-349.18431001
Yu QL, Duan HQ, Takaishi Y, Gao WY. A novel triterpene from Centella asiatica. Molecules. 2006;11(9):661-665.17971739
Yun KJ, Kim JY, Kim JB, et al. Inhibition of LPS-induced NO and PGE2 production by asiatic acid via NF-kappa B inactivation in RAW 264.7 macrophages: possible involvement of the IKK and MAPK pathways. Int Immunopharmacol. 2008;8(3):431-441.18279797
Zaidan MR, Noor Rain A, Badrul AR, Adlin A, Norazah A, Zakiah I. In vitro screening of five local medicinal plants for antibacterial activity using disc diffusion method. Trop Biomed. 2005;22(2):165-170.16883283
Zheng CJ, Qin LP. Chemical components of Centella asiatica and their bioactivities. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xue Bao. 2007;5(3):348-351.17498500
Zheng XC, Wang SH. Determination of asiatic acid in beagle dog plasma after oral administration of Centella asiatica extract by precolumn derivatization RP-HPLC. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci. 2009;877(5-6):477-481.19167274

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health