Last Updated on February 12, 2024 by Aditi Gangal
Quick Take
A social media post claims that the Gotu Kola plant cures depression. We fact-checked and found the claim to be Mostly False. The available evidence only suggests that this plant can manage depression symptoms to a certain extent.
The Claim
A Facebook post claims that the Gotu Kola plant cures depression.
We have attached a screenshot of the post below:
In another fact-check, we debunked the claim that morning walks cure depression. Additionally, we refuted the assertion that St. John’s Wort cures depression. Furthermore, we invalidated the notion that eating onion treats depression.
Fact Check
What is Gotu Kola plant?
Gotu Kola is a name for Centella asiatica plant. It is also known as Mandukaparni, Asiatic Pennywort, or Indian pennywort. Gotu Kola is a herbaceous plant native to Asia and is a traditional medicine for its health benefits. This plant has been studied for cognitive enhancement and wound healing. Rich in bioactive compounds like triterpenoids, it is also valued as a culinary ingredient in some cultures.
Is it true that the Centella asiatica plant cures depression?
Not exactly. Centella asiatica plant cannot cure depression. However, this plant has shown some promise in potentially helping with symptoms of depression. It is important to understand that this plant alone cannot cure depression, so people should not rely solely on it.
The available evidence suggest Centella asiatica may have antidepressant-like effects by reducing stress hormones and increasing neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation. It might be particularly helpful for mild to moderate depression and for reducing anxiety, which often co-occurs with depression.
A 2022 research informs that Centella asiatica contains a compound asiaticoside. This compound may control anxiety and promote a sense of calmness. It may also counteract the effects of harmful substances on the brain and improve brain function.
Another 2022 review informs that this plant can influence neurotransmitters in the brain to soothe the symptoms of depression.
Even though evidence is available, it is scant. We found that most of the studies are done on animals, have small sample sizes, or are review papers. Therefore, we need better human trials/research to confirm its effectiveness and understand the mechanisms behind it. Moreover, there can be no substitute for professional treatment.
Our research shows that Centella asiatica cannot be a standalone treatment. Herbal medicines can interact with medications and have side effects like stomach upset. So, it is better to consult a healthcare professional before trying any herbal supplement. Experienced guidance can help people determine the most appropriate and effective treatment plan as per their heath condition.
To this, Dr Rahul Bansal, Consultant psychiatrist in an interview with THIP adds, “Any delay in treatment will worsen the health”.
The idea that Centella asiatica alone can cure depression is an oversimplification of a complex condition, and it is essential to approach depression treatment with a comprehensive and individualized approach.
Psychiatrist Dr Binda Singh states, “Depression is a disease and needs proper treatment. It can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as situational, trauma, physical health issues, etc. Depression needs intervention, which might include medication, counselling, positive thoughts, communication, etc. Unfortunately, the dietary cure for depression has no scientific evidence”.
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