Gotu kola sounds quite strange, but it is definitely worth looking for cosmetics containing this plant. It can also be found under the name pennywort or centella asiatica. We analyze its healing effects in relation to skin care and the fight against cellulite.
Centella Asiatica has been a valued plant in folk medicine known as Aryuveda for centuries. It has many applications, it is largely used to improve memory and concentration. However, it is worth mentioning that gotu kola is used to maintain a beautiful appearance.
Centella Asiatica – use it to fight cellulite
Specialists from the Brazilian Center for Studies in Dermatology in Porto analyzed the effect of plant substances on combating cellulite. One of them was the Asian pennywort mentioned above.
According to scientists, gotu kola extract can be used to combat cellulite because it improves microcirculation and has anti-inflammatory properties. When applying cream or ointment topically, you should choose products with concentrations ranging from 2 to 5 percent of the content of Centella asiatica, i.e. Asian pennywort.
Another proof of the plant’s effectiveness is research by the Institute of Natural Fibers and Herbal Plants in Poznań. During a double trial analyzing the effect of Centella Asiatica extract, 80 people took part in the experiment.
The research was conducted to determine the effect of hot cola on stretch marks and cellulite. The women were divided into two groups and each of them used the external preparation for 12 weeks.
One was a placebo, the other was a cream with pennywort extract. The results were then compared and it turned out that the group using pennywort developed significantly less stretch marks than the women using the placebo. However, other studies have shown that using ointment with gotu kola extract four times a day for four months contributed to the reduction of cellulite in 85 percent of women who decided to take part in the experiment.
What else does centella asiatica help with? Scientific research results
A Korean researcher analyzed the range of pharmacological activities of Centella Asiatica. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the therapeutic potential of Centella asiatica, or gotu coli, in the treatment of acne, burns, atopic dermatitis and wounds.
As the scientist emphasizes, in order to support the local treatment of mild or moderate skin ulcers, a cream containing 1% is recommended. centella extract.
Gotu kola is a medicinal plant and the triterpenes it contains, such as asiaticoside, madecassoside and their aglycones, asiatic acid and madecassic acid, have a therapeutic effect on dermatological diseases such as acne, burns, atopic dermatitis and wounds.