Phytochemistry: The primary active constituents in gotu kola are thought to be a group of terpene saponin chemicals that are called asiaticosides. Asiaticosides include asiaticoside, madecassoside (asiaticoside A), asiaticoside B, madecassic acid, asiatic acid, terminolic acid, brahmic acid, brahmoside and brahminoside. Other components of the plant include plant sterols, flavonoids, tannins, phytosterols, mucilages, resins, amino acids, an alkaloid (hydrochotine), a bitter component (vallerine) and fatty acids.
Uses: The asiaticosides in gotu kola are thought to confer adaptogenic properties on the herb. This means herbal extracts can be used in a similar way to panax ginseng in that they have anti-stress effects. Gotu kola may also have memory enhancing, mood enhancing, antioxidant, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.
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