Brahmi ~ Gotu Kola ~ Centella asiatica

Brahmi (Gotu Kola)

Latin name: Centella asiatica

Family: Umbelliferae

Part used: leaf

Habitat: marshes ofChina,India, S. Pacific

Main constituents: triterpenoid saponins, sapogenins, triterpene glycosides, free acids, minerals, vitamins B and C

Energetics: sweet, cooling, bitter

Main herbal actions: adaptogen, alterative, antispasmodic, peripheral vasodilator, nervine, relaxant, venous and capillary tonic

Minor herbal actions: mild depressant, antiseptic

Main medicinal uses: weak memory, cognitive disabilities, stress, fatigue, varicose veins

Minor medicinal uses: skin ulcers and eczema, weak hair and nails

Preparations: infusion: 1-2 oz bid; leaf juice: 10-15 ml bid; powder: 1-3 oz. bid

Contraindications: pregnancy, nursing, children under 2 years old, depression, using tranquilizers or sedatives

Toxicity: may cause headaches; topical application may induce rash or photosensitization

Sources: http://botanical.com/products/learn/gotukola.html; http://herbsforhealth.about.com/library/weekly/aa121297.htm; http://daleguyermd.com/pages/CentellaAsiatica.htm; http://www.niam.com/corp-web/centella.htm