Gotu Kola
Centella asiatica
| Family | Apiaceae |
|---|---|
| Sanskrit | Mandukaparni |
| हिंदी | मंडूकपर्णी |
| മലയാളം | കുടങ്ങൽ |
| Parts used | whole plant |
Gotu kola, known in Sanskrit as Mandukaparni, is a low perennial herb of the carrot family with long creeping runners and rounded, kidney-shaped leaves on slender stalks. It favours moist, shady places such as paddy bunds, ditches and lawns, and is common in Kerala and across tropical Asia and Africa.
The whole plant is used. In Ayurveda it is valued as a rasayana for the mind and is traditionally included in skin care preparations, herbal oils and wellness tonics. In Kerala and Sri Lanka the fresh leaves are also eaten as a green vegetable.
Articles are for general information about Ayurveda and personal care and are not medical advice. For any health condition, please see a qualified doctor.
