Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica)

Mandukaparni is an old herb whose name comes from the Sanskrit word “mandukarni” (the leaf resembles the feet of a frog).^(HR/1)

It has been a contentious drug since ancient times, and it is frequently confused with brahmi since brahmi improves intelligence, which is why many herbs with similar effects are confused. This is an essential element in various Ayurvedic compound compositions. Mandukaparni belongs to the medhya rasayanas class of medicines (psychotropic drugs). The herb’s bioactive ingredients make it a powerful memory booster, as well as an anti-convulsant, anti-depressant, wound-healing, anti-oxidant, and anti-bacterial agent. Mandukaparni helps to prevent duodenal and stomach ulcers, as well as central nervous system, skin, and gastrointestinal diseases.

Mandukaparni is also known as :- Centella asiatica, Brahma Manduki, Kodangal, Karivana, Saraswati Aku, Vauari, Manduki, Darduracchada, Manimuni, Jholkhuri, Thalkuri, Thankuni, Indian Pennywort, Khodabrahmi, Khadbhrammi, Ondelaga, Brahmi soppu, Kodangal, Karivana, Vallarai, Gotu kola

Mandukaparni is obtained from :- Plant

Uses and benefits of Mandukaparni:-

As per several scientific studies, uses and benefits of Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica) are mentioned as per below^(HR/2)

• Anxiety : Due to its anxiolytic properties, mandukaparni aids in the reduction of anxiety. It inhibits the anxiety-inducing effects of some mediators. It also regulates neurotransmitter function by balancing behavioural changes and hormone release.
  Anxiety is defined as a neurological illness in which a person experiences symptoms such as rage, tension, or depression. Any neurological disease, such as anxiety, is governed by Vata dosha, according to Ayurveda. Due to its Medhya (brain tonic) function, Mandukaparni aids in the reduction of anxiety symptoms and has a calming impact on the nervous system.
• Mental alertness : There is insufficient scientific data to support Mandukparni’s involvement in mental alertness. Taking Mandukaparni alongside other herbs (such as ashwagandha and vacha) may, nevertheless, aid to improve cognitive performance.
  When administered on a daily basis, Mandukaparni helps to promote mental alertness. Vata, according to Ayurveda, is in charge of the nerve system. Poor mental alertness is caused by a Vata imbalance. Because of its Medhya (brain tonic) properties, Mandukaparni aids to boost mental alertness and memory.
• Blood clots : Due to its antioxidant properties, Mandukaparni may aid in the prevention of blood clots. It decreases cholesterol levels and increases the production of nitric oxide synthase in the body. Platelet adhesion and aggregation are prevented by nitric oxide synthase, which prevents blood clot formation.
• Diabetes mellitus (Type 1 & Type 2) : Because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics, Mandukaparni may aid in the management of diabetes. Mandukaparni decreases glucose absorption and lowers blood sugar levels via reducing carbohydrate breakdown. It also protects pancreatic cells from injury and improves insulin secretion, helping to control blood sugar levels.
• Liver disease : Mandukaparni’s antioxidant action may help lessen the risk of liver disease. It protects cells from harm caused by free radicals. According to many studies, it raises albumin and total protein levels in the blood, which boosts protein synthesis and leads to liver cell regeneration. This all works together to lower the risk of liver disease.
• Fatigue : Mandukaparni is an effective herb for overcoming fatigue in everyday life. Fatigue is a sense of exhaustion, weakness, or a lack of energy. Fatigue is referred to as Klama in Ayurvedic medicine. Because of its Balya (Strength giver) and Rasayana (rejuvenating) characteristics, Mandukaparni provides rapid energy and decreases the symptoms of Fatigue.
• Indigestion : Mandukaparni aids in the treatment of dyspepsia. Indigestion, according to Ayurveda, is the result of an inadequate digestion process. Indigestion is caused by exacerbated Kapha, which leads to Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). Because of its Deepan (appetiser) property, Mandukaparni aids in the improvement of Agni (digestive fire) and the easy digestion of food, preventing indigestion.
• Common cold symptoms : Mandukaparni aids in the treatment of the common cold and flu, as well as its symptoms such as cough. Cough is caused by an imbalance of the Kapha Dosha, according to Ayurveda. Despite its Sita (chill) potency, Mandukaparni helps to balance the exacerbated Kapha. Because of its Rasayana (rejuvenating) function, it helps prevent the return of the common cold when taken on a regular basis.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) : In Ayurveda, urinary tract infection (UTI) is referred to as Mutrakcchra, which is a broad phrase. Mutra is the Sanskrit word for slime, while krichra is the Sanskrit word for pain. Due to its Sita (chill) and Mutral (diuretic) characteristics, Mandukaparni promotes urine flow and alleviates UTI symptoms such as burning sensation during urination.
• Wound healing : Because of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial qualities, mandukaparni gel may aid wound healing. Mandukaparni has phytoconstituents that aid in wound contraction and closure. It aids in the creation of collagen and the generation of new skin cells. Mandukaparni also helps to promote wound healing by reducing the danger of bacterial and microbial infection.
  Mandukaparni promotes wound healing by reducing swelling and restoring the skin’s natural texture. Due to its Ropan (healing) and Pitta balancing characteristics, a paste of Mandukaparni powder with coconut oil can be applied to the wound to aid healing and reduce inflammation.
•  Psoriasis : Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the skin to become dry, red, scaly, and flaky. Due to its Ropan (healing) characteristic, Mandukaparni is beneficial in Psoriasis because it lowers dryness and aids in the speedy healing of scaly patches when administered externally. 1. Take 4-5 drops of Mandukaparni oil (or as needed) to help manage your psoriasis. 2. Add coconut or almond oil to the mix. 3. Apply once or twice a day to the afflicted region to relieve Psoriasis symptoms such as redness and flaky skin.

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Precautions to be taken while using Mandukaparni:-

As per several scientific studies, below precautions should to be taken while taking Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica)^(HR/3)

• Mandukaparni is not recommended to be used for more than 6 weeks as prolonged use might slow down the metabolism of active constituents and can produce toxicity. So, it is advisable to take a break of 2 weeks after every 6-week cycle of Mandukparni.
• Mandukaparni might cause drowsiness or sleepiness if taken along with medications used during and after surgery. So, it is advisable to stop using Mandukaparni at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Special precautions to be taken while taking Mandukaparni:-

As per several scientific studies, below special precautions should to be taken while taking Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica)^(HR/4)

• Breastfeeding : There isn’t enough scientific data to support the usage of Mandukparni during breastfeeding. As a result, it is best to avoid or see a doctor before using Mandukaparni while breastfeeding.
• Patients with diabetes : Mandukaparni has the potential to raise blood glucose levels. As a result, diabetics should avoid Mandukaparni or get medical advice before doing so.
• Patients with heart disease : Mandukaparni may induce an increase in lipid levels in some people. Patients with heart condition should avoid Mandukaparni or visit a physician before taking it.
• Patients with liver disease : Mandukaparni has the potential to harm the liver. Patients with liver illness should avoid Mandukaparni or visit a physician before taking it.
• Pregnancy : There isn’t enough scientific data to support the usage of Mandukparni during pregnancy. As a result, it is best to avoid using Mandukaparni during pregnancy or visit a doctor beforehand.
  Mandukaparni is possibly safe to apply to the skin for pregnant women, but it is best to see a physician before doing so.
• severe medicine interaction : Sedatives’ effects may be amplified by mandukaparni. As a result, if you’re taking Mandukaparni alongside sedatives, you should talk to your doctor.
• Allergy : When used externally, mandukaparni may cause skin allergies in certain persons.

How to take Mandukaparni:-

As per several scientific studies, Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica) can be taken into the methods mentioned as per below^(HR/5)

How much Mandukaparni should be taken:-

As per several scientific studies, Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica) should be taken into the amounts mentioned as per below^(HR/6)

Side effects of Mandukaparni:-

As per several scientific studies, below side effects need to be taken into consideration while taking Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica)^(HR/7)

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dyspepsia
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dermatitis
• Burning sensation on the skin

Questions asked frequently Related to the Mandukaparni:-

Question. Can Mandukaparni be used in cosmetics?

Answer. Mandukaparni extract is indeed utilised as a cosmetic component.

Question. How do you make Mandukaparni tea?

Answer. 1. Take 12 teaspoon of fresh or dried Gotu kola (Mandukaparni) leaves per cup of water to create Mandukaparni tea. 2. Fill it halfway with hot water and cover it with a lid. 3. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for the herb to infuse. Keep in mind that the stronger the tea will be the longer the herbs are steeped. 4. Strain the leaves from the tea and serve it hot.

Question. Are Gotu kola (Mandukaparni) and Brahmi same?

Answer. Although there is some confusion as to whether Gotu kola (Mandukaparni) and Brahmi are the same, they are not. They’re given in various dosages, and each has its own set of perks and drawbacks. Before taking either Brahmi or Gotu kola, get medical counsel (Mandukaparni).

Question. Is Gotu kola the same as pennywort?

Answer. Yes, Gotu kola and pennywort are the same thing; they’re just different names for Mandukaparni. Asiatic Pennywort and Indian Pennywort are other names for gotu kola. This herb is well-known for its medicinal and culinary properties.

Question. Is Mandukaparni good for high blood pressure?

Answer. Because of its antioxidant properties, Mandukaparni may be beneficial for high blood pressure. Mandukaparni also lowers blood pressure by increasing the availability of specific molecules in the circulation. It relaxes the constricted smooth muscle of the heart and decreases blood pressure.

Question. What are the other ways of using Mandukaparni?

Answer. “Oral Consumption” is a term used to describe how people consume food. 1. Powdered Mandukaparni a. Take 1-3 mg of Mandukaparni powder (or as prescribed by a physician). a. Toss in some honey. c. To promote mental alertness, take once or twice a day after meals. 2. Capsules of Mandukaparni (Gotu Kola) a. Take 1 pill of Mandukaparni (or directed by a physician). b. Take it once or twice a day after meals with lukewarm water or milk to relieve anxiety symptoms. External Applicability 1. Oil of Centella asiatica (Mandukaparni) a. Apply 4-5 drops of Mandukaparni oil (or as needed) on your skin. Combine coconut or almond oil in a bowl. b. Apply once or twice a day to the afflicted region to aid wound healing. 2. Powdered Mandukaparni a. Measure out 1-6 grammes (or as needed) of Mandukaparni powder. b. Mix in the honey to make a paste. c. Apply to the face and neck evenly. c. Set aside for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavours to meld. e. Rinse well under running water. f. For soft and supple skin, apply this cure 1-2 times per day.”

Question. Is pennywort (Mandukaparni) good for arthritis?

Answer. Because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics, Mandukaparni may help manage the symptoms of arthritis. It decreases joint pain and swelling associated with arthritis by inhibiting the activity of an inflammatory protein.

Question. Does Gotu kola (Mandukaparni) have caffeine?

Answer. No, gotu kola (Mandukaparni) does not contain caffeine and has no stimulating properties.

Question. Does Mandukaparni help manage fever?

Answer. Because of its antipyretic properties, Mandukaparni may be useful in the treatment of fever. According to studies, this antipyretic drug aids in the reduction of increased body temperature and the alleviation of fever.

Question. Does Mandukaparni help manage psoriasis?

Answer. Although there isn’t enough scientific data, Mandukaparni’s anti-psoriatic activity may help to lessen infection and pain in psoriasis patients.

Question. Is Mansukparni useful for epilepsy?

Answer. Because of its antiepileptic and anxiolytic characteristics, Mandukaparni may be effective treating epilepsy. It effectively suppresses seizure activity by lowering excitation levels, allowing epilepsy to be managed.

SUMMARY

It has been a contentious drug since ancient times, and it is frequently confused with brahmi since brahmi improves intelligence, which is why many herbs with similar effects are confused. This is an essential element in various Ayurvedic compound compositions.