Centella asiatica

What is Centella asiatica?

Centella asiatica is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Hydrocharitaceae.

It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Australia. The plant grows up to 15-30 cm in height, with oval-shaped leaves that are 2-7 cm long and have entire margins. The leaves are opposite, petiolate, and glabrous, with a distinctive hairless and waxy texture.

The plant produces small, white or pale yellow flowers in summer, which are arranged in axillary spikes.

What ailments can you heal with this herb?

The most common ailments you can heal with Centella asiatica are skin inflammation, which is reduced by its anti-inflammatory properties, memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease, as Centella asiatica enhances cognitive function and improves memory, anxiety and anxiety disorder, both alleviated by its anxiolytic and adaptogenic effects, wound healing, which is accelerated by its ability to promote tissue repair and collagen synthesis, diabetes, for which Centella asiatica has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, skin conditions such as eczema, treated by its antipruritic and anti-inflammatory properties, gastrointestinal issues, for which it has been used to treat irritable bowel syndrome and ulcers, hypertension, managed by its vasodilatory and antioxidant effects, and rheumatoid arthritis, for which Centella asiatica has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve joint function.

What are the therapeutic properties this herb?

The main therapeutic properties of Centella asiatica are rooted in its antioxidant capacity, which helps to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress.

This plant also exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation and alleviating conditions such as arthritis and gout. Additionally, Centella asiatica's antimicrobial properties make it effective against a range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Furthermore, its neuroprotective effects have been shown to protect against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, by promoting neuronal health and reducing oxidative stress.

Centella asiatica's ability to improve wound healing is also well-documented, with studies demonstrating its potential to enhance collagen synthesis, tissue repair, and scar tissue formation.

What are the medicinal constituents this herb?

The most important healing constituents of Centella asiatica are triterpenoids, which include asiaticoside, brahmoside, madecassoside, and madecassol, that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and free radicals.

Asiatic acid and madecassic acid, also present in the plant, have been shown to exhibit hepatoprotective and neuroprotective effects by scavenging free radicals and modulating antioxidant enzymes. Asiaticoside a, a derivative of asiaticoside, has been found to promote wound healing by stimulating collagen synthesis and angiogenesis. Triterpenoid saponins, another group of compounds present in Centella asiatica, have been reported to have antiviral and antibacterial properties, making the plant useful in treating a range of infections.

The healing properties of these constituents are attributed to their ability to modulate various cellular pathways, including those involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular proliferation.

What are the main herbal preparations this herb?

The main herbal preparations of Centella asiatica are used to harness its medicinal properties.

Tincture is a concentrated liquid extract obtained through solvent extraction, typically ethanol or glycerin, with a recommended dose of 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day. Tea is made by infusing dried leaves in hot water, often consumed 1-2 cups daily, providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Salve is a topical preparation, typically in the form of a balm or ointment, used to treat skin issues, with a recommended application of 2-3 times daily as needed.

Centella asiatica extract is often standardized to contain a minimum of 15% triterpenoid saponins, which are further processed into capsules or tablets for oral consumption, following a recommended dose of 400-800 mg per day.

What are the possible side effects of using this herb improperly?

The possible side effects of using Centella asiatica improperly include triggering allergic reactions in individuals with known allergies, inducing allergic reactions in those with sensitive skin or immune systems, causing nausea due to its potential to interact with certain medications or exacerbate underlying health conditions, inducing nausea as a result of its bitter taste or gastrointestinal upset, and increasing the risk of bleeding due to its anticoagulant properties and potential interactions with anticoagulant medications.

This is because Centella asiatica contains compounds such as triterpenoids and saponins, which can have potent effects on the body. Improper use can lead to an imbalance of these compounds, resulting in adverse reactions. Centella asiatica can also interact with medications such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, and sedatives, increasing the risk of side effects.

Furthermore, individuals with underlying health conditions, such as kidney or liver disease, may be more susceptible to the side effects of Centella asiatica.