Scientific Name : Centella Asiatica
Common Names : Centella, Asiatic Pennywort
Malay Name : Pegaga
Chinese Name : 积雪草, 崩大碗
Tamil : Vallari Kirai
Growing :
Gotu Kola is the Sri Lankan name for this invasive weed. You have probably seen it at roadsides, under MRT tracks. It grows best under semi or full shade. It a water loving plant so it’s best to keep the soil moist. It grows rapidly and they are propagated by cuttings with roots.
Eating :
The leaves have a slightly bitter flavour. Most cultures eat it raw as a salad. You just wash them clean and throw into your salad. Our favourite is a variation of the original Sri Lankan Sambol recipe with lots of pumpkin seeds (magnesium) mixed in.
Nutrition :
The fresh leaves reported contain the following 1:
Calcium : 170mg
Phosphorous : 30mg
Iron : 3.1mg
Potassium : 414mg
Beta-carotene : 6.58mg
Thiamine : 0.15mg
Riboflavin : 0.14mg
Niacin : 1.2mg
Asorbic Acid : 4mg
References :
- Benefits & Uses Of Gotu Kola by Live Strong
- Gotu Kola by Sigma-Aldrich
- Gotu Kola : “Two Leaves A Day Keep Old Age Away” by Forever Healthy And Young
- Gotu Kola by Secrets Of Longevity
The contents and refereces in this posting are for educational purposes only. Please consult your medical professional before consuming this food either cooked or raw, especially if you have any medical conditions.
