Gotu Kola has been used historically for wound healing and to relieve congestion from upper respiratory infections and colds.

It is also known for it’s ability to reduce fever too. Applied externally, people used it to treat herpes, sprains, fractures and snakebite.

Before the time of prescription medicine, it was widely used by women as a form of birth control. Women who took the herb on a regular basis seemed to not get pregnant. This is one reason why women who are trying to get pregnant should never take this herb.

It has been successfully used in the past to treat epilepsy, mental illness, rheumatism and syphilis. It can stimulate urination and prevent and treat diarrhea. It’s good for asthma, high blood pressure, inflammation, liver disease and urinary tract infections. Many people with psoriasis  and eczema used Gotu Kola to reduce inflammation and swelling.

This plant is history’s first memory enhancing herb. Ancient healers prescribed it for improving memory and enhancing brain function and attention. It’s also considered a longevity herb, helping people reach ages past 90. Gotu Kola is commonly used to treat anxiety and mental upset and to help the body overcome fatigue and stress.

It’s anxiety reducing effect most likely comes from it’s Triterpenoid content. Some studies have shown that people taking this herb are much less likely to be startled by loud noises. The startle response in a good indication of anxiety levels.

Gotu Kola is often used to treat varicose veins. It is believed to help this condition by it’s ability to stimulate circulation.

Many people use this herb to treat varicose veins and hemorrhoids. It is believed to strengthen the connective tissue and improve elasticity in the blood vessels. It also helps produce  collagen   which helps to thicken the skin.