Gotu Kola: The Ayurvedic Herb Your Skin and Hair Will Love.
| Authored by: Adeeba |
| Reviewed by: Kapil Dhameja |
| Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes |
Namaste, I am the herbalist in the ancient Ayurvedic wisdom house. Not just me, but a long line of healers who have studied herbs, the seasons, the humours, and the soft language of skin and hair. Today, I would like to introduce you to Centella asiatica, also known as Mandukaparṇī in our tradition (or, in English, Gotu Kola), one of my most reliable botanical allies. This herb provides cool balance during Pitta's intense heat, which can cause skin flushing or scalp itching. It strengthens your hair roots, soothes your mind, and nourishes your skin.
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The Pitta-Balancing Superpower: Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica)
In Ayurveda, Gotu Kola, also known as mandukaparni, is one of those herbs that embodies the idea of healing via equilibrium. As an Ayurvedic doctor, I frequently refer to it as the "cool breath" that calms a system that is overheated. According to Ayurveda, the three doshas of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha govern each person's individual constitution, or Prakriti. Skin sensitivity, redness, breakouts, or even hair thinning from heat on the scalp are the results of aggravating Pitta, the dosha of fire and transformation, which can be brought on by stress, spicy foods, extreme heat, or long work hours. This is where Gotu Kola, which is mild, grounding, and incredibly cooling, comes in handy.
Benefits of Gotu Kola
Let's understand some of the key benefits of this magical herb - Gotu Kola.
Calms and Balances Pitta
Gotu Kola's sheeta virya (cooling potency) makes it a great herb to calm excess heat and inflammation in the body, both internally and on the skin. This makes it particularly appropriate for Pitta-type skin conditions, according to Ayurveda, for example, inflammation, rash, redness, and sensitivity related to excess heat.
Increases Collagen and Healing of Wounds
From an Ayurvedic perspective, Gotu Kola supports sandhana karma (tissue healing and regeneration). Modern research has shown Gotu Kola to stimulate collagen synthesis, improve skin elasticity, and speed healing through stimulation.
Lessens Scars and Discoloration
Gotu Kola’s active compounds, like asiaticoside, madecassoside, and asiatic acid, help reduce dark spots, scars, and uneven tone of skin due to increased growth of new cells and post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation, making Gotu Kola a favourite in both Ayurveda and modern brightening skincare.
Hydrates and Soothes the Skin
It also helps support the skin's natural microbiome and creates a barrier for moisture retention and comfort for the skin in cases of wound healing or stress, or dry or sensitized skin. It is found in products that offer hydration or support for balancing, restoring skin barrier health, commonly in creams and toners.
Supports the Strength and Growth of Hair
In Ayurveda, the benefits of Gotu Kola traditionally helps support raktashodhana (blood cleansing/purification), and increases microcirculation so that the root of hair is stronger.
The Science Behind: Ayurvedic Wisdom & Modern Science
Laghu Guna (light in quality), Tikta Rasa (bitter in taste), and Śīta Virya (cool in potency) are some of the qualities of Gotu Kola. Because of these qualities, it is perfect for soothing agitated Pitta and promoting mental and skin calm. Gotu Kola is classified by Ayurveda as a Varṇya Dravya, which means it improves skin tone, complexion, and texture, and a Medhya Rasayana, which is a rejuvenating tonic for the brain and nervous system. It cools the mind as well as the body. For this reason, it is recommended in traditional Ayurvedic medicine not only for healthy skin and hair but also for anxiety, inability to focus, and even sleep disturbances brought on by Pitta imbalance.
The holistic nature of Gotu Kola's benefits is what I adore most about it.
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It supports liver function, cleanses the blood, and encourages a clearer, more radiant complexion when taken internally (in herbal formulations or teas).
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It improves the skin barrier, reduces scarring, and speeds up wound healing when applied topically as oils, creams, or serums.
From a contemporary scientific perspective, these effects are corroborated by research demonstrating that gotu kola has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, increases collagen synthesis, and enhances circulation. It is a timeless herb that combines the best of both skin and hair because of its dual validation from ancient wisdom and contemporary research.
In Ayurvedic texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, Mandukaparni is said to support the nervous system (Majja dhatu poshaka), heal wounds (Vranaropana), enhance complexion (Varṇya), and strengthen memory (Medhya). It was prescribed for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, poor concentration, skin disorders, and premature ageing, all of which are now linked to inflammation and oxidative stress.
Why it works so well is explained by modern pharmacology. The active ingredients in gotu kola, known as triterpenoids (asiatic acid, madecassoside, and asiaticoside), have been demonstrated to increase collagen synthesis, speed up wound healing, enhance microcirculation, and lower inflammation. To put it simply, it strengthens the skin's natural repair system, which helps your skin heal more quickly, remain firm, and look younger.
This herb is beautifully connected by Ayurveda to its Rasayana quality, which is rejuvenation through profound nourishment. Gotu Kola enhances local blood flow (Rakta shuddhi and Rakta sanchaar) when applied externally, supporting improved skin delivery of nutrients and oxygen. It reduces internal inflammation by cooling the blood and detoxifying when taken internally. What sets Ayurvedic skincare apart is its dual action, which balances the system beneath the surface rather than just treating it.
Gotu Kola for Skin
Gotu Kola is a magical herb that is appreciated and known for its ability to nourish, heal, and refresh the skin. So let's understand this!
Cooling & Barrier-Calming
When the skin feels warm, red, or irritated, or you feel the barrier is thin and sensitive, Gotu Kola, a cooling herb, becomes important. It helps reduce inflammation and assists the skin's natural barrier repair process. Studies have shown that Centella extracts have been shown to significantly reduce inflammatory markers (for example, TNF-a, IL-1β) and improve barrier integrity in skin models.
Hydration & Elasticity Support
Dry or rough patches, irregular texture or early signs of sagging can be a signal that the skin needs hydration from the inside. Studies show that Gotu Kola hydrates and restores elasticity due to increased fibroblast activity and collagen production.
Scar & Pigmentation Support
If the skin needs assistance due to blemishes or minor damage, or repairing uneven tone, Gotu Kola is beneficial in renewal. The bioactive triterpenoids (asiaticoside, madecassoside) in Gotu Kola help with wound healing and also modulate pathways that degrade collagen (for example, MMP-9) to help smooth texture and lighten marks.
Gotu Kola for Hair
In Ayurveda, Gotu Kola is known to have the strength to improve blood flow circulation to the scalp, fortifying hair follicles and aiding thick, healthy growth and roots.
Cooling the Scalp
An excess of Pitta can lead to scalp symptoms, like inflammation, itchiness, or excess oil. Because of its cooling properties, Gotu Kola helps to cool off that internal heat inside the body for relief of dryness or irritation. Similarly, it can help consolidate a cool, balanced scalp environment so healthy hair can grow.
Strengthening the Roots
Gotu Kola enhances circulation of blood flow to, and around, the follicles, so they receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients, improving strength at the roots, reducing hair breakage, and producing thicker, stronger strands. The triterpenoid compounds within Gotu Kola facilitate fibroblast activity, which helps repair damaged hair tissue.
Minimizing Hair Fall and Premature Graying
Gotu Kola is useful for reducing the thinning of hair and premature graying by balancing Pitta and physically improving the health of the scalp. It supports detoxifying the scalp, clearing product build up, and rejuvenating the hair from within, making it ideal for those dealing with stress-induced or hormonal hair fall.
Gotu Kola Uses with Modern Day Actives
As a practitioner of Ayurvedic medicine, I've always believed that our skin and hair thrive most when ancient wisdom meets modern actives. Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) Mandukaparni in Ayurveda is a rasayana herb that restores, rebalances, and cools internal heat (Pitta shamak). While it's important that today we aren't just talking about leaf powders or pastes to extract the benefits, it’s about pairing it with the modern ingredients to bring balance, glow, and strength in the rush of our busy routines.
Skincare Remedies
1. Gotu Kola + Niacinamide (if your skin is sensitive or inflamed)
Pitta imbalances in Ayurveda show up as redness, irritation, and breakouts. Gotu Kola is anti-inflammatory and improves wound healing, while niacinamide improves the skin barrier and fades blemishes.
How to use: After cleansing, use a serum or gel with Gotu Kola and niacinamide.
2. Gotu Kola + Hyaluronic Acid (if your skin is dry, dull, or dehydrated)
In Ayurveda, dryness is a reflection of Vata imbalances, and the skin has lost its "ojas" or vital glow. Gotu Kola nourishes deeper by improving blood circulation, while hyaluronic acid provides more surface hydration.
How to use: Apply a few drops of Gotu Kola extract or serum first, followed by a hyaluronic acid serum, and finish with moisturiser.
3. Gotu Kola + Vitamin C (if you have pigmentation or uneven skin tone)
Gotu Kola pacifies Pitta and supports and stimulates wound healing, while vitamin C brightens the skin and boosts collagen production. When used together, they both support and strengthen the body's own skin repair process.
How to use: Use vitamin C in the morning and Gotu Kola-based serum at night to avoid irritation, or layer them if you know your skin can tolerate it.
Haircare Remedies
According to Ayurveda, loss of hair or lack of lustre is often linked to a Pitta or Vata imbalance. Gotu Kola cools the scalp, increases blood flow to the hair follicles, and helps with hair growth.
1. Gotu Kola + Bhringraj Hair Oil massage
Bhringraj, and other hair potent herbs aimed at strengthening roots and reducing scalp heat, together with Gotu kola, cools the scalp and stimulates follicular growth.
2. Gotu Kola + Biotin Shampoo
For oily or thinning hair, use sulphate-free and biotin shampoo on the oily parts of the hair, then follow with the herbal conditioner of your choice, preferably Gotu Kola or Brahmi.
3. Gotu Kola hair mask
Mix Gotu Kola powder with aloe vera gel and a drop or two of argan or castor oil and condition once a week for moisture and shine.
Ayurvedic Uses of Gotu Kola
As an Ayurvedic practitioner, I keep reminding my patients that this herb Gotu Kola (Mandukaparni) is not just another “herbal trend.” It’s a Pitta-balancing miracle leaf helping your skin recover from heat stress and inflammation. Whether you have dullness, acne scars, or sensitivity issues, Gotu Kola will gently restore balance and glow.
Skincare Remedies
1. Gotu Kola & Aloe Vera Healing Gel (for redness, acne, and irritation) :
If your skin feels hot, itchy, or inflamed most of the time, then this cooling blend can calm it instantly.
How to make:
Mix 1 teaspoon of Gotu Kola powder with about two teaspoons of fresh aloe vera gel and add in a few drops of rose water. Blend until smooth and apply a thin layer on clean skin. Leave for fifteen to twenty minutes before rinsing with cool water.
This remedy soothes sunburns, makes the redness from acne go down fast, and helps rashes heal up better too!
2. Gotu Kola & Sandalwood Brightening Mask (for glow and even tone):
This one comes straight outta my teacher’s recipe notes! Perfect for tanned dull or tired skin.
How to make:
Mix one teaspoon of Gotu Kola powder with half a teaspoon of sandalwood powder plus some drops of raw milk or rosewater into soft paste form then apply evenly and leave it on for ten to fifteen minutes before rinsing off using lukewarm water followed by a lightweight moisturizer.
The mask cools excess Pitta even pigmentation brings softness to your skin Sandalwood adds fragrance brightness, while gotu kola supports natural collagen renewal
3. Gotu Kola & Honey Hydrating Face Elixir (for dryness and barrier repair):
Skin that feels stretched or dehydrated, most likely due to over-exfoliation or harsh weather conditions, would find this simple combination working beautifully.
How to make:
Mix one teaspoon of Gotu Kola powder with one teaspoon of raw honey plus one teaspoon of yogurt. Apply this mixture on your face and neck and let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse out with cool water.
Gotu Kola helps restore moisture balance and elasticity, honey is a humectant as well as a very mild exfoliant, and yogurt imparts lactic acid that brightens without irritation.
Haircare remedies
Here are some of my favorite traditional remedies that I share with patients often (even use on myself sometimes!).
1. Gotu Kola & Coconut Oil Scalp Tonic (for cooling and nourishment):
The classic Ayurvedic way to use Gotu Kola for hair is this deeply cooling and rejuvenating remedy preparation.
How to make:
Take a handful of fresh Gotu Kola leaves (or 1 tablespoon powder). Gently boil in ½ cup cold-pressed coconut oil for about 5–7 minutes until it gets slightly infused. Strain and allow it to cool. Massage into your scalp for about 5-10 minutes before sleeping at night.
This oil calms scalp heat, reduces itching, and strengthens the follicles from the root. It has Brahmi-like quality improving blood circulation which makes new stronger hair grow; Coconut oil nourishes and seals moisture, together they balance Pitta and Vata.
2. Gotu Kola & Amla Hair Pack (for strengthening and shine):
If your hair feels lifeless or breaks easily, this herbal pack can revive it beautifully.
How to make:
Mix 1 tablespoon of Gotu Kola powder with an equal amount of Amla powder with enough yogurt or aloe vera gel to make a smooth paste. Apply on the scalp as well as strands of hair. Keep for about 20–25 minutes then wash off with a mild herbal shampoo.
Gotu Kola nourishes and strengthens the follicles, while Amla provides vitamin C for growth and shine, both herbs are also cooling in nature hence help reduce dandruff as well as sensitivity of the scalp.
3. Gotu kola & Brahmi Hair Rinse (for stress-related hair fall):
In Ayurveda mental tension (Manasik Dosha imbalance) is frequently associated with poor health. This herb cools the nerves and simultaneously nourishes the scalp.
How to prepare it?
Boil 1 tablespoon of Gotu Kola leaves, 1 tablespoon of Brahmi leaves, and some Tulsi leaves in 2 cups of water for a duration of ten minutes. Allow this mixture to cool down before straining it out. Use it as a final rinse after washing your hair with shampoo.
This herbal water calms your mind (yes! really!), refreshes the scalp, and helps in healthy regrowth of hair by supporting the process. Both gotu kola and brahmi are classified under Medhya Rasayanas herbs known for their properties that support the nervous system and reduce stress, hence prevent hair fall due to stress.
Who is Gotu Kola Beneficial For?
As an Ayurvedic practitioner, I often tell patients that nature provides us with gentle yet powerful answers, and Gotu Kola (Mandukaparni) is one of those timeless wonders that is really appropriate for almost everyone. From an Ayurvedic perspective, especially if you are a Pitta or Vata, Gotu Kola is going to be beneficial if you notice your skin is allergic, inflamed, or have breakouts with associated redness and heat. Gotu Kola calms that fiery nature of your skin and relieves inflammation while helping to even out your complexion.
Likewise, if you notice a dry itchiness or shedding of your scalp (these are Vata qualities), Gotu Kola is nourishing, increases circulation, and helps provide hydration for the roots and avoid any additional concerns and allow your body and scalp to produce healthy roots.
If you're the type who spends hours behind a screen or outside, Gotu Kola is great. Its antioxidant properties help combat UV damage and pollution that could be leading to skin aging similar to Vitamin C in modern skincare. It will especially work best for those who are experiencing early signs of aging such as fine lines, dull skin, and sagging skin. Gotu Kola is also perfect for people with post-inflammatory pigmentation, acne scars, or inflammation in the scalp.
Whether you want to use it as a facial oil, into a serum, or add it into a hair oil you want to be consistent with using it.
Final takeaway
As an Ayurvedic healer, Gotu Kola is nature’s quiet restorer. It isn't loud with immediate results, but works quietly by cooling down the fire (Pitta), calming the mind, and rebuilding strength where your skin and hair need it.
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References
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/centella-asiatica
http://ayurveda.alandiashram.org/ayurvedic-herbs/gotu-kola-centella-asiatica
https://ijrap.net/admin/php/uploads/436_pdf.pdf?utm
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/?utm
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34188145/?utm
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11851956/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34845411/?utm
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