Gotu kola, scientifically known as Centella asiatica, is a small, herbaceous plant in the parsley family, celebrated for its long-standing use in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurvedic and Chinese practices. Native to the wetlands of Asia, this plant is easily identified by its fan-shaped leaves with smooth edges, growing on slender stems close to the ground. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, often found near rice paddies or along water bodies. Gotu kola is revered for its broad range of medicinal benefits. Known as a powerful adaptogen and rejuvenative herb, it is used to support cognitive function, reduce stress, and improve circulation. Research has shown it may help in wound healing, reduce inflammation, and aid in the management of skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis due to its rich array of triterpenoids, antioxidants, and amino acids. In skincare, it is a popular ingredient, used for its anti-aging properties to promote collagen synthesis and skin elasticity. In traditional medicine, gotu kola is often consumed as a tea, tincture, powder, or even fresh in salads and smoothies. Its taste is mild and slightly bitter, allowing it to blend well with other herbs. Ayurvedic texts often refer to it as "brahmi," though this name can also refer to another plant (Bacopa monnieri), emphasizing its revered status as a brain tonic that boosts memory and mental clarity.

How To Grow

Growing gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is relatively straightforward, especially if you live in a warm, humid environment that mimics its native conditions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grow and care for this beneficial herb:

1. Choose the Right Location Sunlight: Gotu kola prefers partial shade to full sunlight. In hotter climates, give it partial shade to prevent wilting. Soil: It thrives in moist, rich, loamy soil with good drainage. Slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0) is ideal. Water: Gotu kola loves moisture, so plant it in an area where the soil retains moisture, or water it regularly to keep it consistently damp.

2. Planting Gotu Kola Starting from Seeds: Sow seeds directly into the soil or in a seed-starting tray. Cover with a thin layer of soil, as they need some light to germinate. Starting from Cuttings: Gotu kola spreads through runners. Take a stem cutting with a few leaves, and place it in water or directly in soil to root. Spacing: Space plants about 12 inches apart, as they spread quickly and need room to grow.

3. Watering Keep the soil consistently moist, especially in dry weather. Gotu kola thrives in water-rich environments and does not tolerate drought well. If grown in a pot, ensure proper drainage to avoid water logging but don’t let the soil dry out completely between waterings.

4. Fertilization Apply a balanced, organic fertilizer or compost in the growing season (spring and summer) to promote growth. Gotu kola doesn’t require heavy feeding but benefits from occasional nutrient boosts, especially in poor soil.

5. Pruning and Maintenance Trim back runners if the plant starts to take over or if you want to shape it. Pruning can also encourage bushier growth. Remove dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant healthy.

6. Pests and Diseases Gotu kola is relatively hardy but may attract pests like aphids and spider mites in warm climates. To control pests, use organic insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Ensure good airflow around the plant to prevent fungal issues, which can arise in overly damp conditions.

How/When To Harvesting

Harvesting gotu kola is simple and can be done once the plant is established, typically around 3 to 6 months after planting. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Select Mature Leaves Choose healthy, mature leaves that are fully formed. Gotu kola leaves are ready for harvest when they are green and about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Avoid yellow or wilted leaves.

2. Harvesting Method By Hand: Gently pinch or pluck the leaves from the base of the stem to avoid damaging the rest of the plant. You can also snip leaves using clean scissors or pruning shears. Avoid Over-Harvesting: Take no more than one-third of the plant’s leaves at a time to allow it to regenerate and maintain healthy growth.

3. Frequency of Harvest You can harvest small amounts frequently, as the plant replenishes its leaves fairly quickly. In warm climates, this could be every couple of weeks, while in cooler or indoor environments, it may take a little longer.

4. Runners (If Needed) Gotu kola spreads via runners, which can also be harvested if they become overgrown. Snip runners that have rooted for transplanting elsewhere, or trim them back to control spread.

5. Storage and Use Fresh Use: Use fresh leaves in salads, teas, or smoothies. Storage: For later use, gotu kola leaves can be air-dried in a cool, shaded spot, then stored in an airtight container. Alternatively, freeze fresh leaves to retain nutrients.