|
Edible Parts: Leaves.
Leaves - raw or cooked. Used in salads and in curries. Cooked as a
vegetable. An aromatic flavour. Medicinal Uses
Adaptogen; Antiinflammatory; Cardiac; Depurative; Diuretic;
Febrifuge; Hypotensive; Nervine; Sedative; Skin; Tonic.
It is a useful tonic and cleansing herb for skin problems and
digestive disorders. In India it is chiefly valued as a revitalizing
herb that strengthens nervous function and memory. The whole plant
is alterative, cardio-depressant, hypotensive, weakly sedative and
tonic. It is a rejuvenating diuretic herb that clears toxins,
reduces inflammations and fevers, improves healing and immunity,
improves the memory and has a balancing effect on the nervous
system. It has been suggested that regular use of the herb can
rejuvenate the nervous system and it therefore deserves attention as
a possible cure for a wide range of nervous disorders including
multiple sclerosis[K]. Recent research has shown that gotu kola
reduces scarring, improves circulatory problems in the lower limbs
and speeds the healing process[238]. It is used internally in the
treatment of wounds, chronic skin conditions (including leprosy),
venereal diseases, malaria, varicose veins, ulcers, nervous
disorders and senility. Caution should be observed since excess
doses cause headaches and transient unconsciousness. Externally, the
herb is applied to wounds, haemorrhoids and rheumatic joints. The
plant can be harvested at any time of the year and is used fresh or
dried. It is best used fresh.
Cosmetic.Extracts of the plant are added to cosmetic masks and
creams to increase collagen and firm the skin. |
