Centella (Centella Asiatica)
CENTELLA ASIATICA Centella asiatica (C. asiatica), also known as Gotu Kola, is a clonal, perennial, herbaceous creeper belonging to the Umbelliferae family (also known as Apiceae). The entire plant is utilized for its medicinal properties. It is widely employed as a blood purifier and for managing high blood pressure, enhancing memory, and promoting longevity. In Ayurveda, Centella asiatica is considered a primary herb for revitalizing the nerves and brain cells.
Key Phytochemicals: The main active components of C. asiatica are saponins, which are also classified as triterpenoids. The medicinal benefits of this plant are largely attributed to the presence of triterpenes such as asiatic acid, madecassic acid, asiaticoside, and madecassoside. These triterpenes are collectively referred to as centelloids. Other centelloids found in the plant include brahmoside, centelloside, brahminoside, thankuniside, sceffoleoside, centellose, brahmic acid, and centellic acid.
Clinical Investigation: A study was conducted to assess the effect of a 70% hydro-ethanolic extract of C. asiatica on generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in humans. The Hamilton’s Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) was used to screen participants. Thirty-three individuals (18 males and 15 females, with an average age of 33 years) were treated with C. asiatica at a fixed dosage of 500 mg per capsule, twice daily after meals. They underwent thorough investigation using standard psychological rating scale questionnaires at the beginning (day 0), midway (day 30), and at the end (day 60) of the study. The scale also included direct questions about their current stress levels. The observations revealed that C. asiatica not only significantly (p<0.01) reduced anxiety-related disorders but also significantly (p<0.01) alleviated stress and its associated depression. Furthermore, C. asiatica significantly (p<0.01) improved the willingness for adjustment and cognitive function. The results of this study suggest that C. asiatica may be beneficial in the management of GAD.
Available Product Specification: 20% Asiaticosides
Product Information:
Botanical/ Scientific Name: Centella asiatica Description: Pale green to light brown Identification Method: TLC (Thin Layer Chromatography) Heavy Metal Limits: Arsenic: Not more than 20 parts per million Lead: Not more than 1 part per million Cadmium: Not more than 10 parts per million Microbiological Quality: As per JPN Food Regulation