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Gotu Kola

Nootropic

Also known as: Brahmi (not Bacopa), Brahmi (sometimes), Centella asiatica, Indian pennywort, Gotu Kola Extract (Centella asiatica)

B
Grade B
💊 500-1000 mg daily🎯 9 primary uses🔗 2 synergies⚠️ Review warnings

Overview

Gotu kola is a traditional Asian herb used in modern supplements primarily for cognitive and circulatory support. Studies suggest potential benefits for wound healing and vascular function, though cognitive effects in humans remain preliminary.

Primary Uses
Cognitive functionAnxietyCirculationWound healingCognitive function and mental clarityCirculation and vascular healthWound healing and skin healthAnxiety and stress reductionMemory support

Dosage

Typical range
500-1000 mg daily
Timing
Any time
With food
Optional
Duration

Safe long-term

Special Populations

Anxiety, circulation, wound healing

Mechanism of Action

  • • Supports collagen synthesis
  • • Enhances GABA activity
  • • Improves microcirculation

Evidence Quality

Evidence Grade B

Traditional cognitive tonic

Safety & Contraindications

Serious Warnings
  • • Liver toxicity rare
Contraindications
  • • Liver disease
Common Side Effects
  • • GI upset
  • • Headache
  • • Drowsiness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Avoid

Liver & Kidney Notes

Rare hepatotoxicity reported

Interactions

💊 Medications
  • • Sedatives
  • • Hepatotoxic drugs
🧪 Supplements
  • • Works with other nootropics
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
  • • No interactions

Stacking & Synergies

Pairs Well With
BacopaGinkgo
Avoid Combining With
Hepatotoxic herbs
Best Goal Synergies
AnxietyMeditation

Buying Guide

What to Look For
  • • Standardized extract
Standardization Markers
Asiaticoside/triterpene content
Adulteration risk
Low
Practical Notes
  • • Different from Brahmi (Bacopa)
  • • Traditional meditation aid
Tags
nootropicadaptogenayurvediccirculationtraditional-medicineherbalcognitiveskin-healthstandardized-extract

Frequently Asked About Gotu Kola

How much Gotu Kola should I take?
The typical effective range is 500-1000 mg daily. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Gotu Kola?
Any time. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Gotu Kola with food?
Optional.
Does Gotu Kola interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Sedatives and Hepatotoxic drugs. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Gotu Kola.
What does Gotu Kola pair well with?
Gotu Kola stacks well with Bacopa and Ginkgo — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Gotu Kola?
Gotu Kola should be avoided or used with caution by people with Liver disease. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Gotu Kola?
Most people tolerate Gotu Kola well. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset, Headache, and Drowsiness. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.

Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.