What does centella mean?

Are centella, cica and gotu kola the same thing?

These names refer to the same plant, not separate skincare ingredients. Centella asiatica is the botanical name; Indian pennywort and Asiatic pennywort are other common names. Centella has several names in skincare, so the packaging can sound like a botanical committee meeting.23

Centella belongs to the parsley family and grows in tropical regions, including parts of Asia and Africa. It has a long history in traditional medicine. That history explains its familiar herbal names, but does not make every modern centella product a proven treatment.245

What are the other centella names on ingredient lists?

Centella contains several active compounds. Four important ones are asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid. These are substances found within the plant, rather than alternative names for the whole plant. Skincare formulas can use centella extracts or particular compounds from centella.24

An extract and an isolated compound are different preparations. Research has used water extracts, alcohol extracts, defined mixtures and individual compounds. The amount of active compounds also varies with where the plant grows. A shared centella name therefore does not mean two products contain an identical preparation or strength.45

What does centella do for skin?

Centella helps skin retain moisture and reduces redness and inflammation, making it useful for dry or sensitive skin. Its active compounds have also been studied for their effects on collagen production and wound repair. Human research on wound healing remains limited, and wrinkle, scar and cellulite benefits are less certain. Centella's nickname "The Miracle Elixir of Life" is considerably more ambitious than its day job in a moisturizer.245

How should you try centella skincare?

1. 1Choose a product that stays on the skin, such as a cream, serum or lotion.
2. 2Test the product on a small area of your inner arm.
3. 3Wait at least 24 hours to check for a reaction before applying it to your face.

Centella allergy is uncommon, but burning and contact dermatitis, an inflammatory skin rash, can occur. Stop using the product if those symptoms develop. Ask a dermatology healthcare provider before use if you are under 18, pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a history of liver problems or skin cancer.2

Is centella skincare the same as a gotu kola supplement?

No. Applying a skincare product and taking the herb by mouth are different uses. Liver toxicity has been reported with ingestion. Laboratory findings also suggest possible interactions with certain medicines, although their significance in people is uncertain. If you are considering a gotu kola supplement, discuss it with your healthcare provider and tell them which medicines you take.45