Gotu Kola / Memory - Brain Functioning -

Herb Of The Week / Gotu Kola / Memory - Brain Functioning -
Longevity

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) is the energy herb that has long been
used by students for its ability to enhance memory and/or recall.
Research has shown that it actually helps if taken right before a
test. It is thought to even increase intelligence and memory while
slowing down mental aging and senility. In addition it builds mental
stamina and neural health and is actually used by naturalists as
treatment for nervous breakdown. The people of India use this plant
specifically to improve memory and longevity. The combination of
Ginseng and Gotu kola have been found to gradually increase overall
energy or activity levels and increase the body's metabolic rate.


The really cool thing is that Gotu Kola contains no caffeine at all
and is not related whatsoever to the Kola nut.

INTERESTING SIDENOTE:
Li Ching Yun, an ancient Chinese herbalist, reportedly lived 256 years
using an herbal mixture composed chiefly of Gotu Kola! There are more
recent stories from India, Pakistan and Madagascar of people working
in the fields after age 100, perhaps related to Gotu Kola.

Although clinical data is limited, Gotu Kola is traditionally used to
promote memory and learning and has been used in mental illness,
including schizophrenia and in developmentally disabled children.
There are no known side effects except generalized itching,
photosensitization and a contact dermatitis has been reported.

The whole extracts work better than attempts to extract or isolate a
particular compound.

But why take my word for it?


By good utilization of search engine technology, we can look up
information as in depth as we desire in our own free time. As we
mention all the time, with every post, that you can research anything
mentioned in this newsletter on your own. Some good search engines are
www.mamma.com or www.google.com. or www.dogpile.com or
www.askjeeves.com ...etc. By entering one or more keywords you can do
your own research.


Until next time remember .... most illness (upwards of 80% according
to experts) can be attributed to FOUR important factors that can
weaken your immune system and your ability to fight off disease:


1. Anxiety, depression, anger, resentment, guilt and other STRESS
factors
2. Improper and/or inadequate NUTRITION habits
3. A sedentary lifestyle that does not include enough EXERCISE
4. Not enough rest and quality SLEEP time

The United States Surgeon General warned Americans in a landmark 1988
report on Nutrition and Health that "diet related diseases account for
68% of U.S. deaths"


Remember, we ALWAYS recommend that you ALWAYS consult a professional
herbalist, naturopathologist or physician. We are just passing along
what we hope to be useful information.


Bye-Bye,

Q