Contents
Description
Centella Triloba, commonly known as Asiatic pennywort or Gotu Kola, is a medicinal plant that belongs to the family Mackinlayaceae. It is found across Asia, especially in India, Sri Lanka, and China, and is widely used in traditional medicine in these countries. The plant is a creeping herb with long, thin stems that can grow up to 10 cm in length. It has small, fan-shaped leaves that are light green in color and have a slightly bitter taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Mackinlayaceae |
| Genus | Centella |
Appearance
The leaves of Centella Triloba are small, fan-shaped, and light green in color. The plant has long, thin stems that can grow up to 10 cm in length. The leaves have a slightly bitter taste and are commonly used in traditional medicine. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer months.
Care Guide
Centella Triloba is a low-maintenance plant and is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade and should be protected from direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant grows best in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centella Triloba is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew in humid conditions. It may also be attacked by spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests and diseases, make sure to keep the plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Centella Triloba is native to Asia and is found across the region, including in India, Sri Lanka, and China. It grows in damp, marshy areas, and is commonly found near water bodies such as rivers and ponds. The plant is also cultivated for its medicinal properties and is grown in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Centella Triloba?
A: Centella Triloba has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is believed to have a range of medicinal properties. It is commonly used to improve cognitive function, boost memory, and reduce anxiety and stress.
Q: What are the active compounds found in Centella Triloba?
A: Centella Triloba contains several active compounds, including triterpenoids, asiaticoside, and madecassoside, which are believed to be responsible for its medicinal properties.
Q: Can Centella Triloba be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Centella Triloba can be grown indoors as long as it receives sufficient light and is kept in well-draining soil.
Q: Is Centella Triloba safe for consumption?
A: Yes, Centella Triloba is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate amounts. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.
Related Plants
- Centella Asiatica
- Hydrocotyle Verticillata
- Hydrocotyle Sibthorpioides
- Hydrocotyle Ranunculoides
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3116297/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3116297/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3116297/
