For centuries, herbs have been used to support the body in gentle, natural ways. One of the most treasured plants in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine is Gotu Kola—an ancient herb known for supporting memory, enhancing circulation, calming inflammation, and promoting longevity. Today, Gotu Kola Tea is becoming increasingly popular as more people discover its remarkable benefits for brain health, digestion, skin vitality, and overall wellness.

Whether you’re exploring new herbal teas for your wellness routine or you’ve heard about its healing potential, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From its history and origins to how to drink it, its benefits, side effects, and a simple recipe—you’ll learn exactly how Gotu Kola Tea can support your everyday health.

What Is Gotu Kola? 

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica), also known as Brahmi, Indian Pennywort, or Tiger Herb, is a small leafy plant that grows in warm, swampy regions across India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Southeast Asia, China, and parts of Africa. Despite its delicate appearance, this medicinal herb has been treasured for thousands of years for its powerful healing properties.

A Sacred Herb in Ancient Traditions

Gotu Kola holds a unique place in world history:

Ayurvedic Medicine (India)

In Ayurveda, Gotu Kola is considered a “rasayana,” meaning a tonic herb that promotes longevity, intelligence, and youthfulness. It was traditionally used to:

• Sharpen memory and focus

• Reduce stress and improve mental clarity

• Enhance meditation and spiritual awareness

• Support wound healing and skin rejuvenation

• Improve digestion and circulation

Ayurvedic practitioners often recommended Gotu Kola for monks and yogis to improve concentration and deepen meditation practices.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

In TCM, Gotu Kola is classified as a cooling herb that supports the liver, kidneys, and heart. It was historically used for:

• “Calming the spirit” and reducing anxiety

• Improving blood circulation

• Reducing swelling and inflammation

• Healing burns, wounds, and skin conditions

• Supporting the nervous system

Legend has it that an ancient Chinese herbalist, Li Ching-Yuen—who reportedly lived over 200 years—consumed Gotu Kola daily as part of his wellness routine.

Southeast Asian Heritage

In Sri Lanka, elephants were observed eating Gotu Kola leaves, which inspired its nickname “Elephant Herb.” Locals believed that elephants’ strong memory and long lifespan were linked to this plant.

Today, Gotu Kola is widely used in herbal teas, tinctures, supplements, and skin care around the world.

10 Powerful Benefits of Gotu Kola Tea

Gotu Kola Tea is respected for its powerful yet gentle healing qualities. This soothing herbal tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it a great choice for morning clarity or bedtime relaxation. Here are the top science-supported benefits you can expect:

1. Supports Memory, Focus & Brain Function

Gotu Kola is often called a brain tonic. Studies show that it may improve:

• Cognitive function

• Memory retention

• Mental clarity

• Mood and focus

The herb increases circulation to the brain and may support the growth of new nerve cells, making it popular for students, older adults, and anyone wanting to stay mentally sharp.

2. Reduces Stress & Anxiety

Gotu Kola contains compounds that help soothe the nervous system and regulate stress hormones. Research suggests it may help:

• Reduce anxiety

• Promote relaxation

• Lower fatigue

• Support emotional balance

It’s considered an adaptogen-like herb, helping the body adapt to stress more effectively.

3. Supports Healthy Circulation

Gotu Kola promotes healthy blood flow and strengthens veins and capillaries. Because of this, it’s commonly used to support:

• Varicose veins

• Hemorrhoids

• Poor circulation

• Swelling in the legs

• Heavy, tired legs

By promoting stronger blood vessels, it helps improve overall vascular health.

4. Promotes Skin Healing & Radiance

Gotu Kola is rich in triterpenoids—compounds known to support skin repair. Drinking the tea may help:

• Improve skin elasticity

• Support collagen production

• Heal wounds and scars

• Reduce fine lines

• Soothe eczema and psoriasis

It’s one of the most popular herbs in natural skincare and anti-aging products.

5. Improves Digestion & Reduces Bloating

Gotu Kola has gentle digestive benefits and may help:

• Reduce inflammation in the digestive tract

• Ease mild cramping

• Support healthy bowel movements

• Reduce gas and bloating

It’s often used as a calming herb for people with sensitive digestion.

6. Supports Heart Health

Research suggests Gotu Kola may help:

• Reduce oxidative stress

• Improve circulation

• Support healthy cholesterol levels

• Calm inflammation

These benefits work together to promote long-term cardiovascular health.

7. Helps Reduce Inflammation in the Body

Chronic inflammation is linked to fatigue, joint pain, skin issues, and digestive problems. Gotu Kola is naturally anti-inflammatory and may help soothe:

• Joint pain

• Muscle discomfort

• Skin irritation

• Systemic inflammation

It’s commonly used for conditions like arthritis or general inflammatory discomfort.

8. Supports Detoxification & Liver Health

Gotu Kola is considered a “cooling” herb that helps the body flush out toxins and reduce internal heat. It may support:

• Liver function

• Kidney detoxification

• Body cleansing

This makes it an excellent tea for wellness routines and seasonal detoxes.

9. May Support Longevity & Vitality

In Ayurveda, Gotu Kola is one of the top herbs for promoting long life. Its combination of:

• Nervous-system support

• Circulatory benefits

• Anti-inflammatory effects

• Stress reduction

• Mental clarity

…makes it a powerful daily herb for long-term vitality and resilience.

10. Boosts Energy Without Caffeine

Unlike caffeinated teas or coffee, Gotu Kola provides a clean, calm energy that helps you stay focused without feeling jittery. Many people use it in the morning for mental clarity or in the afternoon for a gentle energy lift.

Can I Drink Gotu Kola Tea Every Day?

Yes—most people can safely drink Gotu Kola Tea daily, especially at standard herbal tea doses. It’s commonly consumed in India and Sri Lanka as part of a daily wellness routine.

However, moderation is important. Herbalists generally recommend:

• 1–2 cups per day for general wellness

• Short breaks every few weeks if drinking daily

• Avoiding high doses unless supervised by a professional

Drinking it daily can help support brain health, circulation, mood, digestion, and skin vitality. But as with any herb, it’s important to listen to your body and start with small amounts.

What Are the Side Effects of Gotu Kola Tea?

Although Gotu Kola is considered gentle and safe for most adults, some individuals may experience side effects—especially when consumed in large amounts.

Possible side effects include:

1. Stomach Upset or Nausea

This occurs mainly when drinking very strong tea or taking concentrated extracts.

2. Headache or Light Fatigue

Some people feel slightly tired when first drinking Gotu Kola because of its calming effect.

3. Skin Sensitivity

Rarely, people sensitive to plants in the Apiaceae family may experience mild itching or redness.

4. Dizziness in High Doses

Very strong preparations may lower blood pressure slightly in some individuals.

5. Potential Interaction With Medications

Avoid or use caution if you take:

• Anti-anxiety medication

• Sleep medication

• Blood sugar medication

• Blood thinners

• Cholesterol medication

• Diuretics

Always speak with a healthcare provider if you take prescription medications or have medical conditions.

Who Should NOT Drink Gotu Kola Tea

Avoid Gotu Kola Tea if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Have liver disease

• Are planning surgery

• Have a known allergy to the herb

*Children should not consume Gotu Kola unless approved by a physician.*

How to Drink Gotu Kola Tea

There are multiple ways to enjoy Gotu Kola Tea depending on your taste and wellness goals. Here are a few easy ways to incorporate it into your routine:

1. Traditional Hot Tea

This is the most common method. Simply steep the dried leaves in hot water for 10–15 minutes.

2. Iced Gotu Kola Tea

Brew a stronger batch of tea, chill it, and serve over ice with lemon or mint.

3. Blend With Other Herbs

Gotu Kola pairs beautifully with:

• Peppermint (for digestion)

• Lemon balm (for anxiety)

• Ginger (for inflammation)

• Brahmi (for mental focus)

• Tulsi/Holy Basil (for energy)

4. Add Honey or Lemon

A drizzle of honey and a splash of lemon make the flavor smoother and more refreshing.

5. Drink Before Meditation or Work

Because it supports calm concentration, many people enjoy Gotu Kola Tea when:

• Studying

• Working

• Journaling

• Meditating

• Unwinding

• Doing yoga

Daily Wellness Tip:

Try drinking Gotu Kola Tea in the morning for mental clarity or in the late afternoon for a relaxing energy boost.

Simple Recipe: How to Make Gotu Kola Tea at Home

This easy recipe gives you a delicious, soothing cup of Gotu Kola Tea every time.

Homemade Gotu Kola Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1–2 teaspoons dried Gotu Kola leaves

• 8–10 oz hot water (just below boiling)

• Optional add-ins:

  • Honey or maple syrup

  • Lemon slices

  • Fresh mint

  • Ginger slices

Instructions:

1. Boil your water.
   Heat filtered water until it reaches a gentle boil, then turn off the heat.

2. Add the Gotu Kola leaves.
   Place the dried leaves in a tea infuser, teapot, or heat-safe cup.

3. Steep 10–15 minutes.
   The longer the steeping time, the stronger and more medicinal the tea becomes.

4. Strain and pour.
   Remove the leaves and pour the tea into your favorite mug.

5. Add extras if desired.
   Sweeten with honey or brighten with lemon to enhance the flavor.

6. Enjoy warm or iced.
   For iced tea, refrigerate a stronger brew and pour over ice.

Optional: Stronger “Healing” Version

For deeper cognitive, digestive, or anti-inflammatory benefits:

• Use 2 teaspoons of dried herb

• Steep 20 minutes

• Add a slice of ginger or tulsi for synergy

Why Gotu Kola Tea Is a Powerful Daily Wellness Ritual

Gotu Kola Tea is one of the most celebrated herbs in history for supporting longevity, mental clarity, nervous system health, and overall vitality. With its calming yet energizing nature, this ancient tea offers a gentle daily ritual that nourishes your mind and body.

If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your memory, reduce stress, support circulation, enhance your skin, or simply enjoy a comforting herbal beverage, Gotu Kola Tea is a beautiful addition to your wellness routine.

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Disclaimer 

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Gotu Kola Tea is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your doctor before using Gotu Kola Tea if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any medical conditions. Do not exceed recommended amounts. Discontinue use if you experience any side effects.