Gotu Kola
What is gotu kola?
Gotu kola is a small, creeping plant with round, fan-shaped leaves that grows in damp, shady places across South and Southeast Asia. Its botanical name is Centella asiatica, and in modern skincare you will often see it called centella or "cica". It has been used in traditional herbal skin preparations for centuries, especially for skin that needs calming and repair.
What is in it
| Compound | What it is |
|---|---|
| Asiaticoside | The best-known of gotu kola's active plant compounds, studied for its role in skin repair |
| Madecassoside | A closely related compound, studied for its calming activity |
| Asiatic and madecassic acids | Plant compounds from the same family that work alongside them |
Why we chose it
Bio Retinol Elixir is made for skin that wants to look smoother and firmer but cannot tolerate harsh actives. Gotu kola fits that brief exactly: it is one of the most researched botanicals for supporting the look of firm, resilient skin, and it is known for being gentle.
What does the research show?
A 2013 review in Postępy Dermatologii i Alergologii brought together the research on gotu kola in skincare. In lab studies, its compounds encouraged the skin cells that make collagen and increased collagen production, and the plant has a long record of use for minor wounds and scars. The review also points to studies on photoaged skin.
Much of this research is in the lab or uses purified compounds at set strengths, so it explains why gotu kola is so widely used rather than promising a specific result from any one product.
How we use it
Gotu kola extract is part of Bio Retinol Elixir, our day face oil, alongside bakuchi, rosehip, marula and squalane. It contains no retinol, no water and no synthetic fragrance.
Use 6 drops each morning on clean skin, pressed in gently, then follow with SPF.
Frequently asked questions
Is gotu kola the same as centella asiatica and cica?
Yes. Gotu kola is the common name for Centella asiatica. "Cica" is a name used in skincare for products made with it.
Is gotu kola good for sensitive skin?
Gotu kola is known for being gentle, which is why it is so popular in products for sensitive skin. As with any new skincare, patch test first.
Can I use gotu kola with retinol or acids?
Yes. It is often used alongside stronger actives. If your skin is sensitive, introduce one new product at a time.
Should I patch test first?
Yes. Any plant ingredient can cause a reaction. Apply a drop along your jawline and wait 24 hours before your first full use.
Which Sapphire Botanics product contains gotu kola?
Bio Retinol Elixir, our day face oil. It is also included in the Discovery Set and Power Couple.
Sources
- Bylka W, Znajdek-Awiżeń P, Studzińska-Sroka E, Brzezińska M. Centella asiatica in cosmetology. Postępy Dermatologii i Alergologii. 2013;30(1):46-49.