Gotu Kola
Gotu kola is Centella asiatica, a leafy plant used as food and in traditional medicine. Its constituents include triterpenoids such as asiaticoside and madecassoside.
Also listed as Indian Pennywort, Jal Brahmi, Mandookaparni, Brahmi
Does it improve memory?
A 2017 review included five trials of Centella alone and six of combination products. Pooled results did not show significant improvement in cognitive domains versus placebo. Some alertness and anger scores improved, but varied preparations and doses limit interpretation. These signals are worth studying without calling gotu kola a proven memory aid. 1
What does newer research add?
A 2026 review found 54 preclinical studies and eight clinical trials. Some human studies suggested benefits for poststroke cognition or small-vessel circulation. Others found no added cognitive benefit over exercise, or no benefit for glucose and LDL outcomes. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms were chiefly supported by cell and animal work. 2
What does the European monograph cover?
EMA recognizes traditional topical use of Centella herb to help minor wounds heal, based on longstanding use. This is not an endorsement of oral capsules for skin rejuvenation. 3
Effects by health goal
Open an effect to see the studies behind its rating. Bars show the size of the effect; the letter grades the evidence.
Longevity2 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
No study is linked to this rating.
Stress & Mood1 effect
Hair & Skin1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Cognition3 effects
Cardiovascular1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Bone & Joint1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.