Description
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a low-growing, perennial herb native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, and has long been valued for its culinary, medicinal, and ecological functions. Thriving in moist, partly shaded areas, it spreads by runners to form a dense, mat-like groundcover that protects soil, retains moisture, and suppresses weeds — key roles in regenerative and permaculture garden systems.
Edible and mildly aromatic, the round, scalloped leaves can be eaten fresh in salads, blended into smoothies, or lightly cooked in dishes. Gotu Kola has a long history in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it is known as a ‘longevity herb’. It has been used anecdotally to support cognitive function, promote wound healing, and improve skin health. Some scientific studies have supported its potential for aiding circulation, memory, and skin regeneration, although more research is needed to confirm these effects in clinical settings.
In permaculture, Gotu Kola is ideal for planting in damp zones such as pond edges, shaded garden beds, or food forests. It offers an edible groundcover that also contributes to soil health and biodiversity, attracting beneficial insects and offering microhabitats within its dense foliage.
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