Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a leafy herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic and other Asian systems of medicine. It is commonly available as a tea, powder, capsule, liquid extract and topical preparation.
It is often associated with cognitive health, stress, skin health and circulation, but the strength of evidence varies considerably between these uses. Some benefits have been investigated in human studies, while others are based mainly on traditional use or laboratory research.
This guide explains what Gotu Kola is, what it may be used for, how people commonly take it, how dosage differs between products, and what Australian consumers should know about safety.
Important: Traditional use does not necessarily mean a health benefit has been clinically proven. If you take medicines, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or plan to use Gotu Kola regularly, speak with a doctor or pharmacist before starting it.
What Is Gotu Kola?
Gotu Kola is the common name for Centella asiatica, a small creeping herb that grows in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Australia and Asia. It has a long history of use as both a food and a traditional herbal medicine.
The leaves and aerial parts of the plant are commonly used in herbal preparations.
Gotu Kola is also known by names including:
- Centella asiatica
- Asian pennywort
- Indian pennywort
- Tiger grass
- Centella
The plant contains several naturally occurring compounds, including asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid. These compounds have been investigated for various biological activities, although findings from laboratory or animal studies should not automatically be interpreted as proven benefits in people.
Is Gotu Kola the Same as Brahmi?
Not exactly.
This is an important distinction because the two herbs are sometimes confused.
Gotu Kola refers to Centella asiatica, while Brahmi is commonly used for Bacopa monnieri. Both have a long history in Ayurvedic medicine and are associated with cognitive or nervous-system support, but they are different plants.
The naming confusion is also reflected in some older herbal literature, where Gotu Kola and Brahmi have been discussed together or used interchangeably.
When buying a supplement, checking the botanical name on the label is therefore more reliable than relying only on a common name.
Gotu Kola Benefits: What Does the Evidence Say?
Gotu Kola is associated with many potential health benefits, but they should not all be treated as equally established.
A useful way to understand the evidence is to separate it into three categories:
-
Traditional use: the herb has been used traditionally for a particular purpose.
-
Early evidence: laboratory, animal or preliminary human research suggests a possible effect.
- Human clinical evidence: controlled studies in people provide more direct evidence, although these studies can still have limitations.
This distinction matters because a traditional reputation or promising laboratory result does not necessarily mean that taking a Gotu Kola supplement will produce the same result in everyday life.
Gotu Kola and Cognitive Health
Gotu Kola has traditionally been described as a herb that supports the mind and memory, which is one reason it is sometimes marketed as a brain herb.
But the modern evidence is more cautious.
A systematic review and meta-analysis examining randomised controlled trials found no significant improvement across cognitive-function domains compared with placebo. The researchers did find some evidence of changes in alertness and anger, but concluded that there was not strong evidence to support Gotu Kola for improving cognitive function. They also highlighted differences in dosage, preparation and product standardisation as limitations.
So, rather than saying:
Gotu Kola improves memory.
a more accurate statement is:
Gotu Kola has a long traditional history of use for mental and cognitive support, but current clinical evidence is not strong enough to establish it as a proven memory-enhancing supplement.
That distinction is important when interpreting herbal health claims.
Gotu Kola and Stress
Gotu Kola has traditionally been used in connection with calming and nervous-system support.
Some early research has investigated its potential effects on anxiety-related measures and stress responses. However, the evidence is not sufficient to describe Gotu Kola as a treatment for an anxiety disorder.
The same principle applies here: a promising finding in a small or specific study does not necessarily mean that everyone taking Gotu Kola will experience the same effect.
If you have persistent anxiety, panic symptoms or another mental health condition, a herbal supplement should not replace appropriate professional care.
Gotu Kola and Circulation
Improves circulation is one of the most common claims associated with Gotu Kola, but this phrase is often too broad.
Research has particularly examined chronic venous insufficiency and microcirculation rather than general circulation throughout the body.
A systematic review of randomised controlled trials found that Centella asiatica was associated with improvements in several microcirculatory measures in people with chronic venous insufficiency. However, the researchers also noted limitations in the available studies.
This means it is more accurate to discuss Gotu Kola in the context of venous and microcirculatory health rather than simply claiming that it boosts blood circulation.
If you have persistent leg swelling, pain, skin changes or other circulation symptoms, seek medical assessment rather than attempting to manage the problem with an herbal supplement alone.
Gotu Kola and Skin Health
Skin health is another area where Gotu Kola has attracted considerable interest.
The plant contains triterpenoid compounds that have been studied for their effects on processes involved in skin and tissue repair. Laboratory and preclinical research has suggested potential biological activity related to collagen and wound healing.
However, the type of preparation matters.
A topical Gotu Kola product applied to the skin is not equivalent to an oral capsule or tea. Research on one formulation should not automatically be used to make claims about another.
For this reason, it is better to describe the evidence as promising but dependent on the preparation and intended use, rather than claiming that drinking Gotu Kola will heal scars or reverse skin ageing.
Gotu Kola and Antioxidant Activity
Gotu Kola contains plant compounds that have demonstrated antioxidant activity in laboratory research.
However, this is another area where online health articles can go too far.
An antioxidant effect observed in a laboratory experiment does not automatically establish a meaningful health benefit in humans.
So, while antioxidant activity is scientifically interesting, it should not be used as proof that Gotu Kola prevents disease or slows ageing.
Traditional Uses of Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola has been used traditionally for centuries in several Asian systems of medicine, including Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine.
Traditional uses have included applications involving:
- the mind and nervous system
- skin and minor wounds
- circulation
- general vitality
- various inflammatory or tissue-related conditions
Historical traditional use is valuable context, but it should be kept separate from modern clinical evidence.
In other words:
Traditionally used for… is not the same as clinically proven to…
This distinction is particularly important when reading supplement claims online.
How to Use Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola is available in several forms, and the best way to use it depends on the preparation.
Common forms include:
- Gotu Kola tea
- dried herb
- powder
- capsules
- tablets
- liquid extracts
- topical creams or gels
These products cannot always be compared by weight alone.
For example, 500 mg of a whole-herb powder is not necessarily equivalent to 500 mg of a concentrated extract.
The concentration, extraction method and standardisation can affect the amount of active constituents delivered.
How to Use Gotu Kola Daily
If you are considering Gotu Kola as part of a daily wellness routine, the safest approach is to start with the specific product instructions, rather than assuming that every Gotu Kola product has the same dose.
Gotu Kola tea
Tea can be used as a beverage, but the strength can vary depending on:
- the amount of herb used
- how finely it is cut
- the amount of water
- steeping time
- the particular product
For this reason, one person's cup of Gotu Kola tea may not provide the same amount of plant compounds as another person's.
Gotu Kola powder
Powder is more concentrated than a diluted tea in terms of the amount of herb consumed, but the actual composition depends on the product.
Measure it according to the manufacturer's instructions rather than using a generic internet dosage.
Gotu Kola capsules
Capsules are convenient because the label generally provides the amount per serving.
However, check whether the label describes:
- whole-herb powder
- dry extract
- standardised extract
- extract ratio
These details help you understand what you are actually taking.
A simple daily-use approach
For a healthy adult considering Gotu Kola for general wellbeing:
- Choose a clearly labelled product.
- Check the botanical name — Centella asiatica.
- Follow the product's recommended serving.
- Avoid combining several Gotu Kola products unnecessarily.
- Pay attention to how you respond.
- Speak with a pharmacist or doctor if you take medicines or have a health condition.
Gotu Kola Dosage: How Much Should You Take?
There is no single Gotu Kola dosage that applies to every product.
This is one area where many online articles oversimplify the subject.
A tea, dried herb, powder, capsule and concentrated extract may have very different concentrations.
Gotu Kola powder
Follow the serving instructions supplied with the specific product.
Do not automatically use a capsule dose as a powder dose.
Gotu Kola tea
The amount consumed depends on the quantity of herb used and how the tea is prepared.
Gotu Kola capsules
Check the label for the amount of Centella asiatica per capsule and whether that amount refers to the raw herb or an extract.
Gotu Kola extracts
Extracts require particular attention because the same weight does not necessarily mean the same strength.
For example, a concentrated extract may contain substantially more of certain constituents than an equivalent weight of raw herb.
The practical rule: use the manufacturer's labelled directions for the exact preparation you have, rather than trying to convert one type of Gotu Kola product into another yourself.
Can You Take Gotu Kola Every Day?
Whether daily use is appropriate depends on the product, amount, duration and your individual health circumstances.
The fact that Gotu Kola is a plant does not automatically mean that long-term daily use is risk-free.
Human research on Gotu Kola has used different preparations and dosing schedules, making it difficult to apply one universal daily recommendation. Research reviews have also identified differences in preparation and standardisation as limitations.
If you intend to take Gotu Kola regularly for an extended period, especially in concentrated extract form, consider discussing it with a healthcare professional.
Gotu Kola Side Effects
Many people may tolerate Gotu Kola without major problems, but side effects are possible.
Potential adverse effects reported with Centella asiatica preparations can include:
- digestive discomfort
- nausea
- headache
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- skin reactions
The risk may also depend on the preparation, dose and individual sensitivity.
Natural does not mean side-effect free.
Can Gotu Kola Affect the Liver?
This is an important safety point that is often missing from generic Gotu Kola articles.
The US National Library of Medicine's LiverTox database notes that Centella asiatica has been associated with rare cases of clinically apparent acute liver injury, sometimes with jaundice. Reported cases generally developed within several weeks of starting the product and improved after stopping it.
The evidence is limited and the possibility of other ingredients or contaminants in some commercial products could not always be excluded. Nevertheless, the reported cases are enough to warrant caution.
If someone develops symptoms such as:
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- unusually dark urine
- significant abdominal discomfort
- severe or persistent nausea
- unusual tiredness
while taking Gotu Kola, they should stop the product and seek medical advice promptly.
People with existing liver disease should discuss Gotu Kola with a healthcare professional before using it.
Who Should Avoid Gotu Kola or Use Caution?
Some people should be particularly careful with herbal supplements.
Pregnancy
There is not enough reliable evidence to establish the safety of Gotu Kola during pregnancy. It is sensible to seek advice from a doctor or midwife before using it.
Breastfeeding
Healthdirect advises people who are breastfeeding to speak with a doctor or midwife before taking herbal medicines or herbal teas because there is often insufficient evidence about their safety for the baby.
Liver conditions
Because rare liver injury has been reported with Centella asiatica, people with liver disease should seek professional advice before using it.
People taking medicines
Herbal products can interact with prescription and other medicines.
Australian health guidance recommends telling your doctor or pharmacist about the prescription, over-the-counter and complementary medicines you use.
Before surgery
If you are preparing for surgery, tell your healthcare team about any herbal supplements you use. They can advise whether the product should be stopped beforehand.
Does Gotu Kola Interact With Medicines?
Potential interactions are one reason not to treat herbal supplements as completely separate from conventional medicines.
The risk can depend on:
- the medicine
- the Gotu Kola preparation
- dose
- duration
- other supplements being taken
Rather than relying on an internet interaction list, ask a pharmacist or doctor to check your individual medicines.
This is especially important if you take several medicines or have a chronic health condition.
Gotu Kola vs Brahmi: What's the Difference?
| Feature | Gotu Kola | Brahmi |
|---|---|---|
| Botanical name | Centella asiatica | Bacopa monnieri |
| Plant type | Creeping herb | Small aquatic/semi-aquatic herb |
| Traditional use | Mind, skin, circulation and general herbal use | Traditionally associated with memory and cognitive support |
| Same plant? | No | No |
| Commonly confused? | Yes | Yes |
Always check the botanical name when buying a supplement.
This is particularly important because common names can vary between countries, manufacturers and traditional medicine systems.
Gotu Kola Tea vs Powder vs Capsules vs Extract
| Form | Main advantage | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Tea | Simple beverage format | Herb amount and preparation |
| Powder | Flexible | Serving size and product quality |
| Capsules | Convenient | Powder vs extract |
| Liquid extract | Flexible dosing | Concentration and extract ratio |
| Topical product | Designed for skin application | Ingredients and directions |
There is no universally best form.
The appropriate choice depends on what you want to use the product for, the evidence behind that particular preparation and your individual circumstances.
How to Choose a Gotu Kola Supplement in Australia
Australian consumers should look beyond the front of the packet.
Check the botanical name
Look for:
Centella asiatica
This reduces confusion with other herbs that may have similar common names.
Check whether it is a powder or extract
This can make a significant difference when interpreting the stated amount.
Read the directions
Do not assume that the dosage of one brand applies to another.
Check the ingredient list
This is particularly important for multi-herb products.
Be cautious with exaggerated claims
Claims such as:
- miracle herb
- guaranteed memory booster
- cures anxiety
- detoxes the liver
- prevents dementia
should be treated with caution.
The TGA requires therapeutic-goods advertising to be accurate, balanced, not misleading and supported by evidence. Scientific or clinical claims also need to be consistent with the broader body of evidence.
Understand what TGA status means
An Australian therapeutic product may be listed or registered in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), depending on its regulatory category.
Importantly, you should not interpret the mere presence of an ingredient in an Australian product as proof that every possible health claim about that ingredient has been assessed by the TGA.
The TGA specifically states that the phrase TGA approved should not be used in advertising therapeutic goods.
Is Gotu Kola Safe?
For many people, Gotu Kola may be well tolerated when used appropriately, but it should not be considered completely risk-free.
The most sensible approach is to consider:
What form am I taking?
How much am I taking?
How long am I taking it?
What other medicines or supplements do I use?
Do I have a medical condition that could change the risk?
The rare reports of liver injury are an important reminder that herbal products can have genuine biological effects and potential adverse effects.
If you are unsure whether Gotu Kola is suitable for you, a pharmacist or doctor can help assess it in the context of your health and medicines.
The Bottom Line
Gotu Kola is a traditional herb with an interesting history and a growing body of scientific research.
The evidence is not equally strong across all of its popular uses.
Research into cognitive benefits has not yet established a reliable memory-enhancing effect, while studies of chronic venous insufficiency have provided some evidence of effects on microcirculatory measures. Skin and wound-related applications are also scientifically interesting, although evidence depends on the preparation and specific use.
For Australian consumers, the most useful approach is to look beyond a simple list of Gotu Kola benefits. Consider the form of the product, the evidence behind the specific use, the labelled directions and your individual safety factors.
And remember: a herbal product can be natural and still have meaningful effects — including potential side effects or interactions.
If you take medicines, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have liver problems or another medical condition, speak with a qualified healthcare professional before using Gotu Kola regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gotu Kola
What is Gotu Kola used for?
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) has traditionally been used for several purposes, including support for the mind, skin and circulation. Modern research has investigated areas such as cognition, mood, microcirculation and skin-related applications, but the evidence is not equally strong for all uses.
Does Gotu Kola improve memory?
There is not strong enough clinical evidence to say that Gotu Kola reliably improves memory. A systematic review found no significant improvement across cognitive domains compared with placebo.
Is Gotu Kola good for stress?
Some preliminary research has investigated Gotu Kola in relation to stress and anxiety-related outcomes, but more high-quality human research is needed before making strong claims.
Does Gotu Kola improve circulation?
Research has examined Gotu Kola particularly in relation to microcirculation and chronic venous insufficiency. This is more specific than saying that it generally improves circulation.
Is Gotu Kola the same as Brahmi?
No. Gotu Kola is Centella asiatica, while Brahmi commonly refers to Bacopa monnieri. They are different plants.
Can I take Gotu Kola every day?
Some people use Gotu Kola regularly, but there is no single daily regimen that applies to every product. Follow the directions for your specific preparation and seek professional advice if you plan long-term use.
How much Gotu Kola should I take?
The appropriate amount depends on whether you are using tea, powder, capsules or a concentrated extract. There is no universal dose that can safely be applied to every product.
Can Gotu Kola cause side effects?
Yes. Reported adverse effects can include digestive upset, headache, dizziness, drowsiness and skin reactions. Rare cases of liver injury have also been reported.
Can Gotu Kola affect the liver?
Rare cases of acute liver injury associated with Centella asiatica have been reported. People with liver problems should seek professional advice before using it.
Can I take Gotu Kola with medicines?
It depends on the medicine and the Gotu Kola preparation. If you take prescription or other medicines, ask your pharmacist or doctor before starting it.
