Gotu Kola Tea

Gotu kola is a perennial creeping herb, adapted in moist areas of the tropical and subtropical climatic conditions. The individual plants are connected with green or reddish green stolons. They can be identified from the reniform leaves borne on long stalks, and pinkish to reddish flowers.

It shares the taxonomic family Mackinlayoideae with carrots, and is identified scientifically as Centella asiatica. It is a common curative herb present in the traditional medicine of China, India, Indonesia, and Africa. In addition to the popular gotu kola tea, this herb is also consumed as a vegetable in salads and dishes.

As mentioned in pharmacopoeias, gotu kola (or Indian pennywort) is appreciated by herbalists all across the globe. The therapeutic benefits of the herb is attributed to the presence of sapogenins and triterpenoid saponins. These active ingredients are known to possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anxiolytic, and diuretic properties. In addition, it acts as a cerebral tonic, adaptogen and helps in stimulating blood circulation. Some of the benefits of the tea are mentioned below.

• The consumption of this tea made from the dried herb, at regular intervals (preferably 2 - 3 times a day) reduces fatigue, and increased weakness. Thus, this herbal tea is an effectual remedy for stress management.

• It is mildly antibacterial and antiviral in action. The consumption of this tea lowers the risk of infectious diseases. Previously, the herb was used to treat wounds and also, to speed up the healing process of skin infections.

• This creeping vine is a curative herbal medicine for combating mild skin diseases to the symptoms of leprosy. The regular consumption of this herbal tea slows down the aging process, and leads to a healthy, glowing skin.

• It gives a calming effect to the central nervous system. The tea aids in reducing symptoms of painful hemorrhoid as it is rich in anti-inflammatory agents. Likewise, it is useful for alleviating inflammation problem.

• The herb is claimed to strengthen the functionality of the brain, thereby enhancing concentration power and memory. Thus, this simple herb is also used in the alternative medicine for Alzheimer's disease.

• Another benefit of this tea is in strengthening the lining of blood vessels and gastrointestinal tract. It also aids in the purification of blood and increasing oxygen supply to the body parts.

The method of preparation of this tea is not different from that of the other herbal teas. The dried form of this herb, would be required in specific amounts to make tea (and potable water). While purchasing the same, make sure to opt for the reliable brands that deliver pure, uncontaminated herbal medicine. Do not trust those brands that offer this herb at a very low price as their quality may not be up to the mark.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon gotu kola (or 1 tea bag)
• 8 ounces boiling water

Preparation
The aforementioned quantities are sufficient for making 1 cup of tea. The preparation is easy. To prepare this tea, steep the dried herb (or tea bags) in boiling water for 15 minutes, or until the water color is changed. Then, strain the hot tea and drink. Adding sugar is up to one's choice. However, if one consumes the tea for health objectives, reduce the use of table sugar as far as possible. One can stir in a small amount of honey or sugar for taste.

As long as the tea is consumed in the appropriate amount, i.e., 2 - 3 times daily, there would be no adverse effects. The use of fresh plant would be the best way to reap maximum therapeutic benefits. In case of using herbal supplements of the same, the intake of the correct dosage is imperative to avoid the risk of side effects.

Since there is no standard for formulating herbal medicine, one should take special care in the selection of the products that are trustworthy, during its purchase from the healthy food stores.

Disclaimer: This Story is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.