There’s a reason why Gotu Kola has been revered for centuries as the “herb of longevity.” This adaptogenic herb has been used as a medicinal plant in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for thousands of years to boost cognitive function, reduce anxiety and stress, and promote longevity. Today, Gotu Kola is making a comeback as a popular functional food for fitness enthusiasts, academics, and anyone seeking a natural way to improve their mental health and physical wellbeing.
1. What is Gotu Kola?
Gotu Kola is an herbaceous perennial plant native to Asia, Africa, and Australia. It belongs to the Umbelliferae family, which includes celery, parsley, and carrots. The plant has small fan-shaped green leaves and pinkish-white flowers and grows in marshy areas and damp soil. Gotu Kola is rich in triterpenoids, which are organic compounds that are believed to be responsible for its numerous health benefits.
2. Health Benefits of Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola is considered an adaptogenic herb traditionally used to improve memory and cognition, reduce anxiety and depression, prevent fatigue and burnout, and enhance longevity. Recent studies have also shown that Gotu Kola can improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and protect against liver and kidney damage. Moreover, Gotu Kola has been found to have anti-cancer and anti-tumor properties, making it a promising natural therapy for cancer patients.
3. How to Incorporate Gotu Kola into Your Diet
Gotu Kola can be consumed in various forms, including tea, capsules, tinctures, powders and PANCAKES! The yogis in India enjoy the benefits of Gotu Kola by simply add dried Gotu Kola leaves to hot water and steeping for 10-15 minutes. Another way to incorporate Gotu Kola into your diet is with our BrainCakes! You can also take Gotu Kola supplements in the form of capsules or powders, but be sure to consult a healthcare professional before doing so.
4. Precautions and Side Effects
Although Gotu Kola is generally safe for most people, it may cause side effects in some individuals, especially in high doses. These side effects may include dizziness, headache, nausea, and skin rash. Gotu Kola may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, diuretics, and sedatives. It is important to talk to your doctor before using Gotu Kola, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition.
5. Final Thoughts
In summary, Gotu Kola is a natural adaptogen herb that can help you increase your longevity, improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost overall health and wellbeing. It is easy to incorporate into your diet and can be enjoyed as a tea, a pancake & waffle, or added to your favorite recipes. As with any health supplement, it is important to talk to your doctor before using Gotu Kola, especially if you are taking any medications or have a medical condition. Whether you brew it as a tea, enjoy it in a pancake, or take it as a supplement, Gotu Kola is an excellent way to support your body’s natural ability to adapt to stress and promote longevity.
