GOTU KOLA
While Gotu kola has a number of medicinal uses, it is traditionally used as a circulatory tonic to provide support for a healthy brain and nervous system. This herb is highly celebrated in facilitating mental clarity, attention span, concentration and healthy brain functioning. Gotu Kola is widely used in the Ayurveda to improve cognitive function and memory.
Gotu kola can be used to make tea that tastes bitter, pungent or sweet. The herb tea has a light, enjoyable, slightly woody taste that is improved with lemon and a bit of honey. Fresh leaves can be eaten in salads.
BENEFITS OF GOTU KOLA
Besides brain health, Gotu Kola has other health benefits as well. Some of these benefits include:
- Vasodilator and blood vessel strengthener
- Diuretic
- Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Facilitates the actions of Vitamins C and E in healing injuries
- Treats varicose veins
- Treats respiratory infections
- Reduces fever
HOW TO BREW A PERFECT CUP OF GOTU KOLA TEA
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of the dried herb.
- 1 cup of water
Method
- Boil the water until it reaches a temperature of 75-85 C / 170-185 degrees F.
- Add the leaves.
- Let the mix steep for approximately five to eight minutes; or longer if you prefer strong flavor.
- Strain and transfer the tea to a cup.
- Add honey or lemon to taste.
- Enjoy!