Centella asiatica vs gotu kola: are they different?

What about cica and tiger grass?

Why can two products still be different?

The shared plant name does not make every preparation identical. Centella has been studied as water extracts, alcohol extracts, defined extracts and individual compounds. Its composition also varies with the origin of the plant. Differences in plant batches and extraction conditions can change the amounts of compounds in an extract. That makes the preparation more useful to compare than the headline name. Look for whether a product contains a plant extract or a named component, and whether the manufacturer specifies its composition. Do not assume that two extracts have matching strengths because both bottles say Centella. The botanical name identifies the starting material, not a complete formula, despite doing an impressive amount of work on the front of a bottle.13

What does Centella do for skin?

Centella is used in skincare for soothing inflammation, moisturizing and supporting wound healing. Its main active compounds include asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid. These belong to a group of plant compounds called triterpenes. Wound healing research includes effects on fibroblasts, the cells that make connective tissue, and on collagen production. Research also covers small wounds, raised scars and burns, using laboratory and living organism experiments. Asiatic acid is one of the components associated with Centella's healing activity. For everyday skincare, soothing and moisturizing are practical reasons to consider Centella. Wound repair research is not a timetable for a cosmetic cream to remove scars. Nor does changing the name to gotu kola give the same plant a different job.1245

Which one should you choose?

Choose between finished products, not between these two names. Neither name alone specifies texture, concentration, application directions or price position. A product called gotu kola is not inherently more suitable than one called Centella asiatica. Also distinguish skincare from oral preparations. Centella preparations include topical medicines as well as tablets and drops. A shared plant identity is not a reason to treat an oral product as interchangeable with a facial product. If your aim is moisturizing or soothing your face, compare products intended for that use.1

How do you add it to a routine?

Use the finished product's directions for amounts and frequency. General routine guidance is:

1. 1Patch test a new product on your inner arm before applying it to your face, especially if your skin is very sensitive.
2. 2Introduce one new product at a time, rather than several together, so you can identify what helps or causes trouble.
3. 3If your Centella product is a serum or essence, place it after cleansing and before moisturizer.
4. 4Finish your morning routine with sunscreen. A serum or essence can also fit before moisturizer in an evening routine.

Who should be careful?

Sensitive skin still needs caution with new products, particularly formulas containing fragrance or preservatives. Allergic reactions and intolerance remain possible. Choose carefully if you have acne, rosacea or eczema, and do not keep using a product that leaves your face tight or dry. The decision belongs to the whole formula, not just the plant name.6