Herbal Extract
Gotu Kola
A traditional herb used to support memory, cognitive function, and mental clarity.
KÖGN Health grades Gotu Kola as B (Moderate evidence) and rates it 3.7 out of 5.
Last reviewed · June 2026
Primary effects
- Improved memory
- Cognitive support
- Reduced anxiety
How it works
Supports circulation and neuronal health, contributing to improved cognition.
Overview
Gotu Kola has a long history in traditional medicine for enhancing cognitive function and promoting longevity. It is believed to support blood flow and neuronal health, although modern clinical evidence is moderate. Its effects are gradual and subtle, making it more suitable for long-term use rather than immediate performance enhancement.
The evidence
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is a traditional Ayurvedic herb used for calm and mental clarity. A placebo-controlled study found a large single dose reduced the startle response (a marker of anxiety), and small trials suggest it may support cognition, especially combined with exercise or after stroke. The human evidence is limited and the doses inconsistent, so it is promising rather than proven.
How to dose it
Cognition studies commonly use 500–1,000 mg/day of a standardised extract; the acute anxiety study used a much larger one-off dose of raw herb.
When to take it
Both — acute calming reported, with cognitive use studied over weeks.
Safety & side effects
Generally well tolerated; drowsiness and GI upset are the usual effects.
Who should avoid it
Rare reports of liver injury mean it should be avoided with liver disease and not combined with other liver-stressing agents for long periods. Use care with sedatives, avoid in pregnancy, and choose tested products.
References
Related ingredients
Graded entries that target the same cognitive goals.
Categories
Draft — the dose, safety and evidence notes on this entry were prepared from the published literature and are pending editorial and clinical review.
Educational information, not medical advice. The evidence grade is KÖGN’s editorial assessment of published research, not a health claim. Speak to a qualified clinician before changing what you take.