Mandukaparni Powder (Gotukola)

*Mandukaparni is the Sanskrit name for the more commonly known name Gotu Kola plant. It is fast-growing and found in wet/marshy lands. Being a creeper with roots on the nodes of branches the new roots from the internodes enter the soil to generate new plants. Manduka translates into frog and Parni means leaves. Interestingly, the leaves take the appearance similar to the webbed feet of a frog and also resembles the shape of our brain. So it is no surprise that Mandukaparni facilitates cognitive health. Co-ordination of sense organs and mind improves while consuming this herb, additionally intellect, and memory both are enhanced.

*Benefits include improving the intellect, helps with brain health, brings calmness to mind, supports the healthy nervous system, improves memory, calms the nerves in the gut.

Suggested Use: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon in powder form, once or twice daily, or use as directed by your health practitioner.

Botanical Name – Centella Asiatica
Family – Umbelliferae/ Apiaceae
English Name – Gotu kola, Asiatic Pennywort, Indian Pennywort

Morphology –
Mandukaparni is a soft herb found all over India near marshy areas. It is a creeper plant with roots on the nodes of branches. The new roots from the internodes enter the soil to generate a new plant. Thus it spreads on the available soil. The margin of leaves is toothed, and flowers are whitish or pinkish. It bears small fruits.

Physical and chemical properties of Mandukaparni –
Taste –Bitter
Quality – Light to digest
Potency – Cold
Post Digestive effect – Sweet

Bhavaprakasha – Guduchyadi Varga
मण्डूकपर्णी माण्डूकी त्वाष्ट्री दिव्या महौषधी |
ब्राह्मी हिमा सरा तिक्ता लघुर्मेध्या च शीतला |
कषाया मधुरा स्वादुपाकायुष्या रसायनी ||२३६||
स्वर्या स्मृतिप्रदा कुष्ठपाण्डुमेहास्रकासजित् |
विषशोथज्वरहरी तद्वन्मण्डूकपर्णिनी ||२३७||