If you could crown a plant the wisest one in all of the plant kingdom, which one would you pick?
In India, our ancestors picked Gotu Kola. Scientifically, this herb goes by the name Centella Asiatica, but did you know that the Sanskrit word for this herb is Brahmi? And that’s because it was believed that if plants were to be attributed a personality trait, Gotu Kola would be the wisest plant of all.
This belief has now been proven scientifically as well. With demonstrated benefits for the body and skin, this medicinal herb has been traditionally used to boost physical and mental health, from treating varicose veins to improving memory. Gotu Kola also opens up a whole new world of possibilities in skincare.
A Brief History of Gotu Kola
Legend has it that a Chinese herbalist lived a hail and hearty life up to the ripe age of 200. And the secret to his long life was attributed to none other than Gotu Kola, which earned the herb its title “the fountain of life.” Legend from India supports this belief, because elephants, which lead long lives, are known to feed on Gotu Kola. Thus, according to Indian beliefs, Gotu Kola is responsible for this. Tigers are also known to roll over this plant after a fight, which has given the plant its Indian name “Tiger’s Grass.” And the plant’s glory has only increased over the centuries with increasing knowledge of its benefits.
Gotu Kola usually grows in water or around water bodies. The plant belongs to the parsley family and grows perennially in several tropical countries, including India, China, Japan, Indonesia, South Africa and Sri Lanka. Chinese medicine and Ayurveda highly advocate this herb as a means to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and swelling, and help manage the symptoms of a host of health issues.
The Skincare Benefits of Gotu Kola
Being a powerhouse of several vitamins and minerals – vitamins B and C, polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins, to name a few – Gotu Kola has many positive effects on the skin. Consequently, topical application of Gotu Kola has also been traditionally recommended alongside consuming it as a juice. Here’s a glimpse at some of the skincare benefits of Gotu Kola and why it should be a part of your skincare routine:
- Anti-photoageing properties: Studies have shown that Gotu Kola enhances collagen production in the body. Increased collagen prevents the skin from ageing prematurely due to sun damage, so Gotu Kola essentially protects the skin from damage by the sun’s UV rays.
- Increased skin hydration: Gotu kola increases skin hydration and seals in moisture, making it highly suitable for dry as well as oily skin.
- Quicker healing of wounds: Since Gotu Kola increases collagen levels, it ensures that any wounds in the skin heal quickly, because collagen accelerates healing. For this reason, Gotu Kola may be highly effective for those with skin conditions like psoriasis.
- Skin regeneration: The skin’s natural regenerative process causes old skin cells to be destroyed and new ones to be generated in their place. According to research findings, Gotu Kola helps accelerate this process, ensuring that one has spotless, healthy skin.
- Reduced acne: Increased production of collagen can also help the skin heal better from acne, so Gotu Kola helps manage acne effectively.
How to Incorporate Gotu Kola into Your Skincare Routine
How can this effective herb become a part of your daily skincare routine? Here are some ways to reap the benefits of Gotu Kola on the skin:
Gotu Kola Dew Revitalising Toner Serum with Gotu Kola and Niacinamide
Our revitalising toner serum is infused with the combined goodness of Gotu Kola and niacinamide, ensuring instant skin hydration, enhanced skin firmness, reduced signs of ageing, improved appearance of pores and reduced acne. Gotu Kola Dew is clinically proven to enhance skin clarity and increase skin radiance within two weeks.
Our dermatologically tested, PETA-approved Gotu Kola Dew is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Clinical Results
- 90% of users agree the product improves the appearance of pores.
- 94% of users agree it improves skin clarity in two weeks.
- 96% of users agree it balances oil in their face in two weeks.
- 96% of users agree it makes skin look radiant in two weeks.
Based on a consumer study of 47 women in 4 weeks. Individual results may vary.
The Benefits of a Gotu Kola Toner Serum
Gotu Kola toner serums like Gotu Kola Dew may be used to remedy many different skin problems, such as acne, skin damage due to UV rays, and skin dryness. The best way to use a Gotu Kola toner serum is to incorporate it into your skincare routine, after cleansing and before moisturising. Cleanse your face thoroughly. Take 2-3 drops of the serum in your palm. Pat it gently on your face and neck till it is fully absorbed into the skin. Follow it up with a rejuvenating moisturiser for the best results.
Passed on from the priceless annals of Ayurveda and Chinese medicine, Gotu Kola is a valuable element in the treasure trove of traditional skincare and health remedies. Today, the various skincare benefits of Gotu Kola or Centella Asiatica have been demonstrated widely in modern science, reiterating our ancient wisdom. So, embrace this priceless herb and assign it its well-deserved place in your skincare rituals.
