What is Centella Asiatica?

Also known as gotu kola, tiger grass, Indian pennywort, Asiatic pennywort, spadeleaf, or coinwort, Centella Asiatica is an herb native to Southeast Asia, though it may also grow in Eastern Europe, South and East Africa, and Central America. It’s a highly revered herb used in Ayurveda as a tonic for the nervous system, a brain enhancer, and a rejuvenating agent. In China, it was traditionally used as a medicine for millennia to treat skin conditions, fever, and other ailments; it was called “ji xue cao” or tiger grass.

Having the option to be taken not just topically, but orally, Centella asiatica is unsurprisingly used in culinary as well—its stems and leaves being used like other greens, such as in salads, curries, beverages, and even incorporated into processed food to boost nutritional value, such as noodles, chocolates, and soups.

Centella asiatica carries a lot of water, which makes it gentle on the system when eaten fresh. And even though it looks delicate, it brings an impressive load of important minerals, such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which support bone strength, muscle function, and overall balance in the body.

In addition, the plant has notable beta-carotene which the body later converts into vitamin A—a vitamin famous for improving eye health and normal skin renewal. At the same time, it is also high in vitamin C which supports the immune system and helps the body manage daily stressors. To add the cherry on top for the fitness guys and girlies out there, it has a natural fiber to aid your digestive system.

Although protein and fat remain low (understandably), the strength of Centella asiatica is in its minerals and protective compounds. When included in food, you can rely on it for hydration, micronutrients, and plant-based support.

Benefits of Centella asiatica

Centella Asiatica is rich in many natural bioactive substances such as triterpenoid saponins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, triterpenic steroids, amino acids, and sugars.

Moisturizes Dry Skin
Centella asiatica is mainly popular for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that calm dry, red, rough, and irritated skin. This is particularly recommended for those with skin conditions such as eczema (dermatitis), rosacea, and psoriasis.

Madecassoside, an active compound in Centella asiatica, is a catalyst for increased collagen production which helps the skin retain water and is essential for maintaining elasticity, resulting in soft and smooth skin.

Boosts Wound Healing
Other than madecassoside, madecassic acid, asiaticoside, and asiatic acid are more compounds found in the plant that help skin wounds heal. Triterpenoids in particular protect the skin and increase blood flow to wounds.

In a medically reviewed article by Cleveland Clinic, Dermatology Physician Assistant Samantha Stein, PA-C, remarked, “We need antioxidants to help fight off free radicals, which are little molecules that eat up the good parts of our defense system, damaging DNA and the skin barrier,” she explains.

“Centella increases antioxidant levels to help fight off those free radicals. So, in conjunction with other products like petrolatum jelly, it may help heal burns and wounds.”

Slows Signs of Aging
Studies show that phytochemicals found in Centella asiatica are important for reducing oxidative stress on the cells that make up the skin’s connective tissue. The naturally occurring antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and carbohydrates in the plant may also make the herb effective in improving skin hydration and providing anti-aging action.

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Consistent use of the dermatology cream is guaranteed to enhance skin elasticity, improve skin texture, replenish moisture barrier, and nourish even the most sensitive skin. Even with ample moisture supply, it won't leave your skin feeling oily.

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