Nootropic
Gotu Kola
Also known as: Brahmi (not Bacopa), Brahmi (sometimes), Centella asiatica, Indian pennywort
Gotu kola is a traditional Asian herb used in modern supplements primarily for cognitive and circulatory support. Studies suggest potential benefits for wound healing and vascular function, though cognitive effects in humans remain preliminary.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Gotu Kola product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nutricost Gotu Kola Capsules | 87 A | $0.12 |
| 2 | Codeage Brain Focus Vitamins+ | 79 B+ | $2.00 |
| 3 | NOW Foods Brain Elevate | 77 B+ | $0.26 |
| 4 | NOW Foods Energy | 77 B+ | $0.35 |
| 5 | Herb Pharm Gotu Kola | 77 B+ | $0.34 |
| 6 | Nature's Way Ginkgo | 72 B | $0.78 |
| 7 | Nature's Way SystemWell Ultimate Immune* | 71 B | $0.76 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Gotu Kola should I take?
The typical range is 500-1000 mg daily. Safe long-term
When should I take Gotu Kola?
Any time. Optional.
Which form of Gotu Kola is best?
Standardized extract — Triterpenes standardized. Other forms in the catalog: Whole herb, Capsule, Powder, Liquid extract, Tablet.
Is Gotu Kola safe?
Commonly reported: GI upset, Headache, Drowsiness. Serious warnings: Liver toxicity rare. Rare hepatotoxicity reported
Which Gotu Kola supplement scores highest?
Nutricost Gotu Kola Capsules, at 87/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Cognitive function
- Anxiety
- Circulation
- Wound healing
- Cognitive function and mental clarity
- Wound healing and skin health
- Memory support
How it works
- Supports collagen synthesis
- Enhances GABA activity
- Improves microcirculation
Dosage
- Typical range
- 500-1000 mg daily
- Timing
- Any time
- With food
- Optional
- Duration
- Safe long-term
- Special populations
- Anxiety, circulation, wound healing
Forms
- Standardized extract
- Whole herb
- Capsule· 70/100
- Powder· 70/100
- Liquid extract· 70/100
- Tablet· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- GI upset
- Headache
- Drowsiness
Contraindications
- Liver disease
Products containing Gotu Kola
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Gotu Kola on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Traditional cognitive tonic
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Related in Nootropic
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.