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Gotu Kola is an inconspicuous herb that likes to grow in tropical swamps. It is not absolutely certain where it originated, but some sources suggest it may have traveled from Africa, via Madagascar to India, where it is a highly revered household herb with a great reputation as a panacea. Gotu Kola is one of those Elixirs of Life, that is said to stimulate Chi, the life force. Gotu Kola is said to increase longevity, vitality and potency and Ayurvedic doctors often prescribe it to the elderly to counter the effects of aging. It has also long been held sacred and valued as a meditation aid, as it enhances the ability to concentrate. Due to a mistaken association with Kola nuts, it is sometimes suggested that its effects are due to caffeine, but Gotu Kola does not contain caffeine and is not related to Kola nuts. Unfortunately its beneficial effects are not shared by the common European species Centella vulgaris.

Traditional:
Gotu Kola can be used for many different conditions. It is an excellent supportive herb for the elderly, which aids mental and nervous functions and counteracts memory loss. It can also be given to hyperactive children to increase their attention span. It is an overall tonic which appears to increase the haemoglobin levels in the blood. It is also richer in B vitamins than any other plant - the B vitamins play a significant role in the health of the brain and nervous system. Gotu Kola has also shown amazing effects on wound healing and regeneration of connective tissues. It is traditionally used to treat ulcers, leprosy and skin conditions and has recently shown good results on cellulites and varicose veins. In Ayurvedic medicine it is also used for stomach ulcers, indigestion and as an anti-inflammatory in rheumatoid conditions. It may be useful in Lupus and ME, but more studies need to be done.

Magical:
Gotu Kola is an excellent herb to aid meditation as it clears the mind and enhances the ability to concentrate. It is a great elixir of life and can be used for longevity, virility and fertility. It is said to enhance sexual stamina and may be useful in tantric practices and sex magic.

At home in the tropical regions of West Africa, the Kola tree is a relative of the Cocoa tree, which can grow up to a stately height of 65 m. The nuts are arranged in seed pods similar to those of cacao.

Everybody has heard of Kola, yet few are aware of it. Kola in fact contributed the stimulating action of its seeds to the original Coca Cola recipe, though today all natural substances have been removed and replaced by artificial ingredients. Thus, today all there is left of Kola in the famous beverage is half of the name.

In West Africa, Kola enjoys a much revered status as a sacred plant. 'Kola brings life' is a common saying in West Africa where Kola nuts are ceremonially shared as a sign of peace and honor, to welcome friends or strangers, to seal agreements and even to seek favor with the family of one's bride to be. These customs are particularly common among the tribal people, but e.g. in Nigeria the ceremonial sharing of Kola nuts is a respected sign of peace and concordance at all levels of society.

Traditional
Kola nuts are rich in caffeine and are used for their stimulating effect, e.g. in cases of mental or physical exhaustion, mental strain while studying, or as an energy booster. They also suppress feelings of hunger and thirst and may be used as a diet aid.

In West Africa, Kola nuts are used as a digestive aid. A little piece of nut chewed before the meal is not only said to improve digestion but also makes the meal taste better.

It may help allay headaches and migraines and has diuretic and astringent properties.

Magical
Kola nuts can be used to enhance concentration and mental clarity during long rituals and meditation. They can energize prayers or spells. Kola nuts are generally considered as a bringer of peace and may help reaching a decision or agreement among a group of people. It also has a reputation as an aphrodisiac, probably thanks to its energy boosting effect.