Gotu kola is also known as Centella asiatica (C asiatica). Gotu kola is native to southern Asia. However, it is also found in other parts of the world, such as Mexico, South America, and South Africa. Gotu kola contains some active constituents called saponins or triterpenoids.
If gotu kola is not in your skin care routine, now is the time to include it. This herb has natural properties that regenerate and hydrate the skin. Gotu kola has a long history of medicinal applications, and is now being incorporated into modern skincare as well. Many products made of gotu kola are available in the market.
Dr. Ankur Sarin told about Gotu Kola in one of his Instagram posts. Dr. Ankur is a Dermatologist.
Dr. Ankur explains that “Gotu kola is a wonderful substance found in many skin care products.”
They further explain that it “helps repair the skin barrier, also aids wound healing, and reduces inflammation, whereas it is commonly found in barrier-repairing moisturizers.”
benefits of gotu kola for skin
reduces edema
As Dr. Ankur explains, Gotu kola has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help in retaining the natural moisture of the skin. Inflammation in the skin can occur due to many reasons such as redness of the skin, feeling dry or flaky. Gotu kola helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier and helps keep it hydrated by strengthening it.
heals wounds
Gotu kola helps in wound healing. Its antiseptic properties act like a protector in the skin which protects you from any skin infection. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling of the wound. It soothes the skin and increases blood flow to the wound, which speeds up the healing process.
According to a study published in Research Gate, various animal and laboratory studies have found that triterpenoids, a chemical found in gotu kola, help in wound healing. Triterpenoids increase the elasticity of the skin, act as an antioxidant in wounds.
tightens the skin
The first thing that starts with the signs of aging is the loosening of the skin. Certain phytochemicals found in gotu kola, such as triterpenoid saponins and polyacetylene, help increase the elasticity of the skin. These compounds can trigger collagen production, preventing its breakdown. In this way, gotu kola can tighten the skin.
How to use gotu kola
1 Gotu Kola Anti-Aging Massage Oil
Cleanse your face. Mix 2-3 drops of rosehip essential oil in 10 ml of gotu kola oil and apply on your skin. Gently massage onto face using upward strokes. Leave it for 10 to 15 minutes and wash it off with lukewarm water or wipe it off with a damp towel.
2 Gotu Kola Anti-Ageing Face Pack
Add 1 1/2 tbsp of gotu kola powder to the guduchi and ashwagandha powder. Add some honey and rose water to the pack to make a paste and apply on your skin. Leave it on for 40 minutes to an hour and wash it off.
