The Science

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Botanical Profile

Centella asiatica, commonly known as “cica” or “gotu kola”, belongs to the Apiaceae family and is native to various regions in Asia. This perennial herb thrives in damp environments, often near water sources, and has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries.

Cica One- Bug eye photo of Centella Asiatica Leaf

Key Features

Leaves: Reniform to orbicular, long-petioled, and serrate margins.

Flowers: Small, pink or white, borne in simple or compound umbels.

Roots: Creeping stolons which are long and slender.

The Chemistry of Centella asiatica

Centella’s effectiveness in various skin conditions is attributed to its unique combination of bioactive compounds. Components such as pentacyclic triterpenoids have shown promising pharmacological activities.

Reference: James, J. T., & Dubery, I. A. (2009). Pentacyclic triterpenoids from the medicinal herb, Centella asiatica (L.) Urban. Molecules, 14(10), 3922-3941.

Cica One- Scientists studying Centella Asiatica

Topical Benefits of Centella Asiatica

Wound Healing

Triterpenes from Centella asiatica have been shown to accelerate the healing process by stimulating the production of extracellular matrix components in experimental wounds.

Maquart, F. X., et al. (1999). Triterpenes from Centella asiatica stimulate extracellular matrix accumulation in rat experimental wounds. European Journal of Dermatology, 9(4), 289-296.

Collagen Production

Asiaticoside, a component of Centella, has been studied for its role in inducing human collagen I synthesis.

Lee, J. H., et al. (2016). Asiaticoside induces human collagen I synthesis through TGFβ receptor I kinase (TβRI kinase)-independent Smad signaling. Planta Medica, 82(04), 279-282.

Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant Properties

Centella asiatica contains biologically active compounds that are beneficial in cosmetology and dermatology, offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Bylka, W., et al. (2013). Centella asiatica in cosmetology. Postępy Dermatologii i Alergologii, 30(1), 46-49.

Broad Therapeutic Potential

A comprehensive review reveals Centella asiatica’s multifaceted pharmacological properties, which encompass wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, among others.

Gohil, K. J., et al. (2010). Pharmacological review on Centella asiatica: A potential herbal cure-all. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 72(5), 546.

Centella Beyond Skincare

Centella is also used in foods and drinks, showcasing its wide-ranging benefits. It’s not just good for the skin; it has potential antioxidant and brain-supporting roles too.

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