Botanical Name: Centella asiatica

Family: Apiaceae

Description: Mandookparni, commonly known as Gotu Kola, is a small, herbaceous perennial plant. It has slender, creeping stems that root at the nodes. The leaves are fan-shaped, green to reddish-green, with a smooth texture and scalloped edges. The plant produces small, white to pinkish flowers that grow in clusters near the leaf axils.

Occurrence: Mandookparni is found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including India, Sri Lanka, China, and parts of Africa. It typically grows in damp, shady areas such as marshes, riverbanks, and rice fields.

Chemical Constituents:

• Asiaticoside
• Madecassoside
• Asiatic acid
• Madecassic acid
• Brahmoside
• Brahminoside
• Centelloside
• Flavonoids
• Triterpenoids
• Essential oils
  
  

Guna (Properties):

• Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter), Kashaya (astringent)
• Virya (Potency): Sheeta (cold)
• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)
  
  

Uses:

1. Cognitive Health: Enhances memory, concentration, and cognitive function.
2. Anxiety and Stress: Acts as an adaptogen, reducing anxiety and stress levels.
3. Skin Health: Promotes wound healing, reduces scars, and improves skin elasticity.
4. Digestive Health: Alleviates digestive issues such as indigestion and ulcers.
5. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and is useful in treating conditions like arthritis.
6. General Tonic: Improves overall vitality and strength.
   
   

Mode of Action: Mandookparni’s neuroprotective properties stem from its ability to enhance the synthesis of neurotransmitters and improve cerebral blood circulation. The triterpenoids, such as asiaticoside and madecassoside, stimulate collagen synthesis, which aids in wound healing and skin regeneration. The herb’s adaptogenic qualities help modulate the body’s stress response, reducing anxiety and promoting mental clarity. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help in managing conditions like arthritis.

Home Remedies:

1. For Improved Memory: Mix 1 teaspoon of Mandookparni powder in a glass of warm milk. Drink it daily in the morning.
2. For Stress Relief: Prepare a tea by boiling 1 teaspoon of dried Mandookparni leaves in 2 cups of water. Strain and drink it twice a day.
3. For Skin Health: Apply a paste made from fresh Mandookparni leaves directly to wounds or scars to promote healing.
4. For Digestive Health: Mix 1 teaspoon of Mandookparni juice with honey and consume it before meals to aid digestion.
   
   

Dosage:

• Powder: 1-3 grams, twice a day with warm water or as directed by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
• Juice (Swarasa): 10-20 ml, once or twice a day.
• Decoction: 50-100 ml, once or twice a day.
  
  

Note: Dosage may vary based on individual health conditions and should be taken under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.

Mandookparni is a versatile and valuable herb in Ayurveda, known for its wide range of therapeutic benefits, particularly for enhancing cognitive function and promoting overall well-being.