According to Medical News Today, pennywort contains many triterpenoids, flavonoids, vitamin C and antioxidant compounds that help enhance liver function and support the body in eliminating toxins.
1. Reduce liver enzymes, protect liver cells
Studies show that pennywort extract has the ability to reduce oxidative stress - the leading cause of liver cell damage. According to the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, the active ingredient madecassoside in pennywort can help improve liver enzymes (ALT, AST), support the regeneration of liver cells damaged by alcohol, tobacco or a diet high in fat.
2. Promoting natural detoxification
Gotu kola acts as a mild diuretic, helping to increase urine excretion, thereby helping the body eliminate toxins. Regular consumption of pennywort is said to help the liver "ease the burden" of detoxification, especially for people who often take Western medicine or are exposed to polluted environments.
3. Helps reduce mild hepatitis
In some clinical trials, pennywort has been shown to have mild to moderate anti-inflammatory properties, helping to improve early-stage hepatitis symptoms. However, it should be noted that pennywort is not a medicine and cannot replace medical treatment regimens.
How to use gotu kola
Housewives can prepare a glass of fresh gotu kola juice/day for family members, without adding too much sugar to avoid increasing blood sugar.
In addition, mothers can flexibly prepare pennywort by boiling or cooking soup with lean meat to increase nutrients and make it easier to digest.
However, women need to pay special attention: Do not use more than 40g of pennywort/day continuously for many weeks, especially for people with low blood pressure or pregnant women.
Note
People with underlying liver disease should consult a doctor before using gotu kola as a supportive measure.
