Gotu Kola (aka. Pennywort)
GOTU KOLA (or INDIAN PENNYWORT)…is a wild groundcover found almost ubiquitously the world over. Abundant after rain or in permanently wet locales, it’s health benefits are profound. A daily wild forage of just 2 large leaves eaten upon collection or in salad ensures it’s protective benefits (1). It’s ability to strengthen both vein & nerve sheaths as well as brain synapses gives it a reputation as a cure-all (2). Pharmaceuticals made out of it are widely distributed and too many to name. Next time you see it growing after rain, or in a wet ditch – give it a little thumbs up – or better yet, remember where it grows and harvest it’s leaves daily for your morning cup or tea! (TIP: The leaves are serrated & the taste is slightly bitter…that’s the medicinal alkaloids talking!)
Scientific name: Centella asiatica
REFERENCES:
(1) Herbs are special. 2020. Gotu kola. [ONLINE] Available at: https://herbsarespecial.com.au/plant-information/herb-information/gotu-kola/. [Accessed 30 April 2020].
(2) Gohil, K. J., et al. (2010). “Pharmacological review on Centella asiatica: a potential herbal cure-all.” Indian journal of pharmaceutical sciences 72(5): 546
Konrad says:
“One of the most important herbs in Ayurveda. Large doses can pose problems. It is best taken in small doses over long periods of time (500mg maximum dose, 1 or 2 times per day).
This is one the best all around herbs for aging – or people who work long hours intellectually. It increases the strength of both the nervous and immune systems.”
Taken from this great answer here on Quora for more info:
https://www.quora.com/What-is-gotu-kola/answer/Atreya-Smith
Wikipedia article with even more info:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Centella_asiatica
Enjoy your tea responsibly 😉