Evidence supporting the use of: Gotu kola
For the health condition: Neuralgia and Neuritis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, for supporting nerve health and treating conditions like neuralgia and neuritis. Traditional texts describe gotu kola as a "rasayana" herb, believed to rejuvenate the nervous system and promote calmness. It has been used to alleviate symptoms associated with nerve pain, tingling, and inflammation. The rationale for its use is based on its reputed anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and tonic properties.

From a scientific standpoint, the evidence specifically supporting gotu kola’s effectiveness for neuralgia (nerve pain) and neuritis (nerve inflammation) is limited. Some animal studies suggest that compounds in gotu kola, such as asiaticoside and madecassoside, possess neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, which could theoretically benefit nerve-related conditions. A few small clinical studies hint at cognitive and mood benefits, but robust human trials examining its use for neuralgia or neuritis are lacking. Most contemporary use for these conditions draws on historical precedent rather than direct scientific validation.

In summary, gotu kola’s application for neuralgia and neuritis is primarily justified by tradition, with a low to moderate level of evidence (2/5), mostly extrapolated from its general nerve-supportive and anti-inflammatory properties rather than direct clinical research.

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