Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). While it is best known for its purported effects on cognitive function, wound healing, and skin health, it has also been used traditionally to address digestive complaints. In Ayurveda, gotu kola is sometimes prescribed for “cooling” the digestive tract and alleviating symptoms such as indigestion and mild gastrointestinal discomfort. It is believed to help soothe inflammation and support mucosal healing, which is thought to benefit those with minor digestive disturbances.

However, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy for poor digestion is currently very limited. Only a handful of animal studies have explored its gastroprotective effects, such as reducing gastric ulcers or inflammation, but these findings have not been robustly replicated in human clinical trials. Most clinical research on gotu kola focuses on cognitive and dermatological outcomes rather than digestive health. Therefore, while there is a traditional precedent for its use in supporting digestion, this is not substantiated by strong scientific research at present. As such, the evidence for its effectiveness in treating poor digestion is rated as very weak (1/5), and its use for this purpose should be considered primarily traditional rather than evidence-based.

More about gotu kola
More about Digestion (poor)

Other ingredients used for Digestion (poor)

Other health conditions supported by gotu kola

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