Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a perennial found in marshes throughout most of Asia. It is used for culinary purposes (food and drink) as well as in traditional medicine. Interestingly, it is used in both Ayurvedic (Traditional Indian medicine) and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) because it is geographically widespread. It is also used in many beauty products as an anti-aging topical. The primary active components of Gotu Kola are triterpenoid saponins Asiaticoside, Asiaticoside B, and Madecassoside, which have potent mood lifting, relaxing, and anti-inflammatory effects. Gotu Kola triterpenoids may also be neuroprotective and promote learning. Liftmode Gotu Kola is standardized to contain ≥18% Asiaticoside ≥55% Madecassoside + Asiaticoside B, or ≥70% triterpenoids.
The triterpenoid saponins unique to Gotu Kola have a wide range of activities. Traditionally, Gotu Kola was used for stress and mood, but recent studies indicate the triterpenoid saponins may have a more complex pharmacological role than expected. Gotu Kola increases cerebral GABA levels, which is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. This action may be responsible for its acute calming effects. The saponins have been shown to increase serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. As expected, studies indicate Gotu Kola supplementation may help focus. Gotu Kola saponins may also reduce glutamatergic excitotoxicity, which is the degradation of neurons from a surge of excitatory neurotransmitters. This can occur with chronic stress.
Gotu Kola may also have long-term benefits. The saponins and their metabolites are believed to promote neurogenesis by enhancing expression of BDNF (Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor) and NGF (Nerve Growth Factor) which may promote learning as well as mood. Low BDNF levels are often associated with lowered mood and interest in new activities. In rats, oral Gotu Kola was found to enhance dendritic arborization, or the formation of new connections in the brain.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Gotu Kola are a staple of its traditional use, but recent studies indicate saponin metabolite Asiatic Acid may suppress NF-kB and COX-2 expression within inflammatory macrophages.
This product is 5 grams / 0.18 oz of pure Gotu Kola extract, standardized to contain standardized to contain ≥18% Asiaticoside ≥55% Madecassoside + Asiaticoside B, or ≥70% triterpenoids in a transparent, reclosable jar with an integrated Safety Seal and Shrinkband.
Also included are the certificate of analysis for the individual Gotu Kola extract batch and a 0.15cc measuring scoop. Two level scoops contain approximately one serving of 100mg Gotu Kola Extract. Use of a scale with 0.001g accuracy is recommended for reliable measurement.
More information on Gotu Kola can be found at
https://examine.com/supplements/centella-asiatica/