Centella Asiatica is found in the marshy soils of Southeast Asia, Australia and Africa. This creeping plant is a perennial with leaves that resemble Japanese fans. Centella has small white flowers, and roots grow from its stems. The leaves are harvested all year round and can be eaten as soon as cut. Nicknamed "tiger grass", it attracts big cats, who roll around in it to heal their wounds.
Centella is so fascinating because its virtues have not yet been scientifically explained, but they have been identified by man, notably in Ayurveda.
The number of names that have been attributed to this extraordinary plant illustrates its reputation: Tiger herb, Gotu Kola, Pegaga, Hydrocotyle...
The brain's ally
➢ First and foremost, it is a powerful ally of cognitive functions... A complicated problem to solve? An important decision to be made quickly? Centella asiatica is undoubtedly the best answer.
Since the dawn of time, Ayurveda has used this plant to overcome anxiety attacks, combat memory lapses and support hypnosis for therapeutic purposes.
Widely used to soothe nervousness during periods of stress and, above all, to improve concentration, it is particularly appreciated by students during exam periods.
Centella asiatica in cosmetics
➢ Then there's the mystery of Indian cosmetics... Centella possesses a substance capable of healing epidermal cells and strengthening scar tissue. This is one of the reasons why it is widely used in skincare creams and milks. It is a reference for all dermatological conditions, wound healing and capillary problems. In 1942, its healing power led to the development by Doctors Ch. Grimes and P. Boiteau of a universally-used medicine, Madecassol*.
Centella: meditation and anti-stress
➢ These actions on neurocognitive functions make it an ideal ally for meditation to improve clarity of mind. It is used in particular by yogis in certain Himalayan regions.
➢ Finally, centella is so soothing that combined with valerian or chamomile, it becomes an effective, natural sedative for restful nights!
*Ch. Grimes & P. Boiteau (1945). Report on leprosy therapy. Eighth annual report of the Société du Parc Botanique et Zoologique de Tsimbazaza, 1944.
