Medicinal and Nutritional Importance of Centella asiatica in Human Health
摘要
Centella asiatica often known as Indian Pennywort or Gotu Kola is indeed a plant with a vast historical tradition medicinal and nutritional use. This small herbaceous plant is native to Asia and is grown extensively in numerous regions of worldwide. The various parts of the Centella asiatica plant, including the roots, leaves, and stems, have been utilized in conventional medical procedures due to their therapeutic properties, particularly in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and traditional African medicine. In vitro and in vivo studies have illustrated a range of significant health benefits associated with Centella asiatica, such as its potential to act as an antidiabetic agent, promote wound healing, exhibit antimicrobial properties, enhance memory, function as an antioxidant, and protect neurological health. Nonetheless, there is still a dearth of scientific research on clinical studies evaluating Centella asiatica nutritional benefits and health benefits, creating obstacles in comprehending its benefits, underlying mechanisms, and potential adverse effects. This limitation hinders the development of new drug prototypes derived from this herb. It is important to remember that, despite Centella asiatica centuries-long use in conventional medicine, more research is being done to properly grasp its possible advantages and modes of action.