Centella triterpenes

PhytochemicalTriterpeneBest with a meal

What is it

Centella triterpenes are the main bioactive compounds in Centella asiatica (gotu kola). The four major triterpenes are asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid. Many gotu kola products are standardized to total triterpene content.

Evidence for 3 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Chronic venous insufficiency

Good Evidence

Multiple European trials of standardized centella triterpene extracts show improvements in leg heaviness, edema, and microcirculation in chronic venous insufficiency.

Wound healing / scar appearance

Good Evidence

Topical centella triterpene preparations are widely used after dermatologic procedures and show benefit in some clinical studies for scar appearance.

Cognition (gotu kola tradition)

Limited Evidence

Small studies suggest possible cognitive benefits; evidence is preliminary.

How it works

These triterpenes have been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis (particularly type I and III), modulate transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) signaling, and support extracellular matrix remodeling. These activities underlie traditional and modern uses for wound healing, scar reduction, and chronic venous insufficiency. Centella triterpenes also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in various models. They have been studied orally and topically; topical products are often used after dermatologic procedures to support healing.

Dosage

Studies have used 60-180 mg of standardized triterpene fraction (often as 'titrated extract of Centella asiatica' or 'TECA') daily. DSLD label data did not include a typical dose for the isolated triterpenes.

When and how to take it

WHEN: Usually divided doses, 2-3 times daily, with meals. HOW: As standardized capsule extract or as topical cream/gel for skin.

3 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

TECA (titrated extract of Centella)

Used in European pharmaceutical preparations.

Standardized to asiaticoside, madecassoside, and acids.

Standardized gotu kola extract (capsule)

Most common consumer form.

Varies by product; check triterpene content.

Topical cream / gel

Used in scar care.

Local delivery for skin applications.

Safety

Generally well tolerated orally. Reported side effects include mild GI upset, headache, and rare reports of liver enzyme elevation with long-term high-dose use. Topical preparations can occasionally cause contact dermatitis.

Who should be cautious

Use caution in pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. People with liver disease should be cautious with prolonged high-dose use. Discontinue if jaundice or unusual fatigue develops.

Interactions

Limited interaction data. Theoretical interactions with sedatives, diabetes medications, and hepatotoxic drugs. Discuss with clinician if you have liver disease.

Food sources

Centella asiatica leaves (gotu kola)

Amount
Used in some Asian cuisines
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is gotu kola the same as kola nut?⌄

No - completely different plants. Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) has no caffeine. Kola nut is a stimulant from Cola trees.

Will centella heal my scars?⌄

Topical products may help improve scar appearance, particularly when used early after wound healing. Effects vary and complete scar prevention is unlikely.

References

Centella triterpenes on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Centella triterpenes (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.