Evidence supporting the use of: Gotu kola
For the health condition: Parkinson's Disease

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Synopsis

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

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) has traditionally been used in Ayurvedic and other traditional medicine systems for a variety of neurological and cognitive conditions, including memory enhancement and neuroprotection. While there is no strong historical record specifically linking gotu kola to the treatment of Parkinson's Disease (PD), its broader use for brain health and as a "nerve tonic" has led to interest in its potential for neurodegenerative diseases, including PD. The plant is thought to exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects, which are mechanisms that could theoretically support brain health in PD, a condition characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons and oxidative stress.

Scientific evidence directly supporting the use of gotu kola for Parkinson's Disease is very limited. Most studies are preclinical, involving cell cultures or animal models, and suggest that some compounds in gotu kola (such as asiaticoside and madecassoside) may protect neurons from oxidative damage and reduce neuroinflammation. However, there are currently no robust clinical trials in humans demonstrating a benefit for PD symptoms or progression. As a result, the traditional use of gotu kola in brain and nervous system health is the main basis for its consideration in PD, rather than strong scientific validation specific to Parkinson's Disease.

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