An ancient herb with 21st century benefits for the skin? Where do we sign up?

Coined the herb of longevity, thanks to its powerful anti-aging and healing properties, when choosing what we put on our skin, gotu kola is a must-have ingredient. But in a sea of naturally powerful ingredients, what makes it stand out?

First, let’s get to know the herb. Gotu kola’s scientific name is centella asiatica, which is also commonly known as pennywort. Native to Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, East Africa, and South Africa, this ground-hugging plant grows in the dark, humid, and moist enclaves of the rainforest (fun fact: it’s healing properties are most effective when it grows wild this way in its natural habitat).

Gotu kola has long been touted for its medicinal benefits, which include improving brain function, treating anxiety, and fighting infections. And when it comes to skin, it’s equally impressive. From supporting collagen production and firming the skin to healing wounds, minimizing redness, and fighting inflammation, it’s highly effective for a variety of skin types and concerns. And when it comes to its powers, let’s just say the proof is in the pudding. Studies indicate that wounds treated with gotu kola extracts heal more rapidly than those treated without it and that it’s more effective than ointments or creams.

Rich in amino acids, beta carotene, fatty acids, and phytochemicals, gotu kola is commonly used as an ingredient in facial serums and oils because it pulls double duty, treating both existing concerns and preventing future damage. Goodbye wrinkles, loss of firmness, acne scars, and inflammation. And hello protecting from environment stressors and free radical damage! Yes, gotu kola does all of that, and more. It’s safe to say that this ancient herb is precisely what our 21st century skin needs. That’s why we’ve chosen to include it in not just one, but two of our products. You can find gotu kola in Freedom Fighter Antioxidant Face Oil and Mama Pacha Moisture Infusion Cream, part of our daily PM Universal Skin Routines for both Oily/Combo/Acneic and Dry/Mature skin.