· By Nhi Kha
Meet the Herbs: Gotu Kola
Meet the Herbs: Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)
Welcome to another chapter in our “Meet the Herbs” series — your guide to the unique botanicals that light the way in our herbal tea blends. Today, we're highlighting Gotu Kola, a revered plant with deep roots in ancient traditions and a growing following in the modern herbal world.
What Is Gotu Kola?
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a small, green, fan-shaped herb native to parts of Asia and Africa. It thrives in tropical, wet environments and has been traditionally used in many systems of wellness and self-care — particularly in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Also known by names like "Brahmi" (in Ayurveda, though sometimes that refers to another herb) or "Tiger Grass," Gotu Kola has been celebrated for centuries for its connection to balance, clarity, and vitality.
A Brief History of Use
Gotu Kola has been an important plant in various traditional healing systems for thousands of years:
- Ayurvedic Medicine (India): Considered a “medhya rasayana,” or rejuvenative herb traditionally associated with the mind and body.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine: Often used to help maintain a sense of internal harmony and circulation.
- Sri Lankan Folklore: There’s a legend that elephants, known for their memory, frequently graze on Gotu Kola — a connection that’s helped shape the herb’s reputation in local culture.
Its long-standing reputation is a testament to its revered place in traditional herbal systems.
Gotu Kola in the Modern Day
Today, Gotu Kola is used around the world in teas, tinctures, skincare, and wellness formulations. It is naturally caffeine-free and features a mild, slightly bitter taste that blends well with other herbs like spearmint, lemon balm, or tulsi.
Herbal enthusiasts often turn to Gotu Kola for:
- Its traditional role in promoting balance and focus
- Its use in wellness teas for grounding and clarity
- Its historic role in supporting longevity and calm in daily life
Sourced With Intention
At Lifted Lanterns, we work with growers who cultivate herbs with respect for the earth and for traditional knowledge. Our Gotu Kola is selected for purity, sustainability, and connection to time-honored practices.
Important Reminder
We love sharing the history and cultural uses of herbs like Gotu Kola. While it has been valued in traditional systems for generations, we recommend speaking with a qualified healthcare professional before using any new herbs — especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
Want to Experience Gotu Kola?
Explore our herbal blends featuring Gotu Kola — carefully crafted to help bring clarity and calm to your daily ritual.
Keep Exploring the Herbal World
Every plant has a story. Follow our “Meet the Herbs” series to continue learning about the powerful botanicals we bring into every blend at Lifted Lanterns.
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