Gotu Kola (Mandukaparni)Maṇḍūkaparṇī
Tridoshic; particularly pacifying for Pitta and Vata. Cooling, light.
Centella asiatica · Cognitive · Cooling
What Ayurveda says
Tridoshic; particularly pacifying for Pitta and Vata. Cooling, light.
Traditional uses
- ·Memory, focus and mental clarity
- ·Nervous-system tonic and anti-anxiety support
- ·Wound healing, varicose veins and connective-tissue repair
- ·Healthy skin and hair (often paired with Brahmi)
How it is taken
500 mg powder or 1 capsule once or twice daily after meals, or 1 tsp dried leaf as a tea. Usage: warm water or ghee.
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy and lactation
- ✕Active liver disease or with hepatotoxic drugs (paracetamol, statins)
- ✕Two weeks before scheduled surgery (sedative effect)
- ✕Children under 12 without supervision
Allergies
Apiaceae family — caution if allergic to celery, carrot or parsley. Contact dermatitis is documented.
Classical alternatives
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) for similar nootropic action; Shankhpushpi for anxiety-dominant presentations.
When to see a doctor
Persistent or severe symptoms, pregnancy, children under 12, anyone on prescription medication, and any new or worsening condition should be reviewed by a qualified clinician (GP or vaidya) before starting Gotu Kola (Mandukaparni). May cause mild drowsiness, headache or nausea. Long-term high doses have rare hepatotoxicity reports.
The information presented here is for educational and general wellbeing purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, prescription, treatment or a cure for any condition, and is not a substitute for conventional medical care.
Ayurvedic herbs and formulations contain potent substances that can interact with medications and may be unsafe for certain conditions. Always consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional before use. Ayurveda is classified as a complementary therapy in the UK and complements, rather than replaces, conventional treatment. We do not operate as registered medical doctors. Stop immediately and seek care if any symptom worsens; in an emergency call 999 or NHS 111.