According to the World Health Organization, pennywort is classified as a plant group with remarkable pharmacological effects with anti-inflammatory, diuretic and liver cell protection properties.
Many modern scientific studies have proven the effectiveness of pennywort in supporting the liver and kidneys. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology shows that the active ingredients asiaticoside and madecassoside in pennywort have the ability to reduce liver damage caused by toxins and improve liver function through powerful antioxidant mechanisms.
The triterpenoid compounds in pennywort help increase the production of glutathione - an important endogenous antioxidant that helps the liver detoxify effectively.
In terms of kidney benefits, pennywort is noted for its mild diuretic effect, supporting the natural dialysis process. Gotu kola extract helps reduce acute kidney damage thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects and reduce oxidative stress in kidney tissue.
Avoid overuse because it can lower blood sugar
A popular way to use gotu kola is to boil water to drink or blend smoothies. On hot days, housewives often make green bean sprout or bean sprout water for family use.
However, to ensure safety, you should only consume 3040g of fresh gotu kola per day, avoid overusing it because it can cause low blood pressure or affect liver function if over dosed for a long time.
In particular, pennywort should be used according to the recommended dosage and should not be a complete replacement for treatment drugs.
Gotu kola is a herb that has the potential to help cool the liver and protect the kidneys if used properly and reasonably, combined with a healthy diet and regular health check-ups.
