Your Complete Guide to Gotu Kola

What is Gotu Kola?

Gotu Kola, scientifically known as Centella asiatica, is a perennial herbaceous plant that thrives in and around water. It has a storied history of use in the Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine systems, where it's been utilized for centuries for its healing properties. The plant is native to the wetlands of Asia and is also commonly found in the swampy areas of the southeastern US.

The leaves of Gotu Kola are its most valuable part, used both medicinally and as a culinary vegetable in some parts of the world. It’s often referred to as "the herb of longevity" due to its wide range of health benefits, particularly its ability to enhance cognitive functions and heal skin issues. Gotu Kola is not related to kola nuts and does not contain caffeine, making it a stimulant-free herbal remedy.

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Gotu Kola Health Benefits

Gotu Kola is revered for its ability to improve cognitive functions. It is believed to enhance memory and nerve function, which makes it a popular herb among students and the elderly. The triterpenoids found in Gotu Kola help to improve blood circulation to the brain, supporting overall mental clarity and the process of learning and memory.

One of the most celebrated uses of Gotu Kola is its ability to heal skin wounds, burns, and psoriasis. Studies suggest that Gotu Kola increases collagen production, which is essential for wound healing. This herb is also used in treating varicose veins, as it strengthens the walls of blood vessels and improves circulation.

Gotu Kola acts as an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body cope with stress more effectively. It has mild sedative properties and can reduce anxiety levels, contributing to a calmer and more balanced emotional state. This makes it particularly useful for people suffering from stress-induced insomnia or anxiety disorders.

With its positive effects on the vascular system, Gotu Kola is often used to improve blood circulation, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels and healing. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and improve the health of the veins, which can be beneficial for those with circulatory issues.

Gotu Kola can also benefit the digestive system. It helps to repair and strengthen the gastric mucosa, which can reduce the symptoms of gastric ulcers and prevent digestive issues. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it useful in treating irritable bowel syndrome and other inflammatory disorders of the GI tract.

Some studies suggest that Ashwagandha's antioxidant properties may help slow down the aging process by protecting cells from oxidative damage. It can also promote skin health and a radiant complexion.

History of Gotu Kola

Gotu Kola has been a staple in traditional medicinal systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. In these cultures, it is not only appreciated for its therapeutic effects but also for its spiritual properties; it is said to develop the crown chakra, the energy center at the top of the head, and to balance the right and left hemispheres of the brain, which is why it is often called "the herb of enlightenment."

The use of Gotu Kola as a medicinal herb dates back to the 2nd century AD. It was famously used by the Chinese Daoist sage, Li Ching-Yuen, who reportedly lived to be 256 years old and credited his longevity in part to regular consumption of Gotu Kola. Whether this is fact or legend, it highlights the ancient belief in the herb’s life-extending properties.

Gotu Kola Caffeine Content

Gotu Kola tea is naturally caffeine-free. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are sensitive to stimulants but still want the benefits of a herbal tea that can be enjoyed at any time of the day or night.

What Does Gotu Kola Tea Taste like?

Gotu Kola has a sweet, slightly bitter, and herbaceous flavor, which makes it a pleasant addition to salads and teas. Its taste is mild enough to be palatable when eaten raw in salads, yet distinctive enough to contribute depth when brewed as a tea.

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You can find Gotu Kola tea on our website! We are USDA certified organic, and our products are vegan and free of GMO’s. Try our Organic Gotu Kola tea out!

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Where Can I Buy Teas With Gotu Kola?

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How to Steep Gotu Kola Tea

1. Boil fresh, filtered water and let it cool for a few minutes. 

2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of Organic Gotu Kola loose leaf tea to the infuser for every 8 ounces (240ml) of water.

3. Place the infuser or tea bag in a cup or mug and pour the hot water over the tea.

4. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, depending on how strong you prefer your tea.

5. Remove the infuser and enjoy your cup of Organic Gotu Kola tea!