Centella asiatica: A mini review of its medicinal properties and different uses

The World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews has published an article on the benefits of centella asiatica, one of the ingredients of Neuropad® Foot Repair Foam.

🌿 Medicinal Properties of Centella asiatica

1. Wound Healing & Skin Regeneration

Rich in triterpene saponins (asiaticoside, madecassoside) and acids (asiatic/madecassic acids), it notably promotes collagen synthesis and tissue repair. Used traditionally to treat wounds, burns, ulcers, leprosy, lupus, varicose ulcers, eczema, psoriasis, and even stretch marks.

2. Anti‑Inflammatory Action

Water extracts and asiaticoside inhibit nitric oxide synthesis, reducing inflammation.

3. Antioxidant Effects

Contains phenolic compounds that neutralize free radicals, protect cell membranes from lipid and protein oxidation, and may be as potent as vitamin C or grape seed extract.

4. Neuroprotective & Cognitive Benefits

Demonstrated protection against age-related oxidative brain damage. Enhances learning and memory via triterpene and flavonoid constituents.

5. Antimicrobial Properties

Exhibits antibacterial effects (e.g., against Bacillus cereus and Listeria monocytogenes) and antifungal activity, useful for skin disorders.

6. Gastroprotective & Digestive Support

Prevents gastric ulcers and promotes mucosal healing by inhibiting pro-inflammatory nitric oxide synthesis.

7. Antidiabetic & Metabolic Effects

Reduces blood glucose in type 2 diabetes models by inhibiting carbohydrate-digesting enzymes and binding glucose.

8. Cardiovascular & Circulatory Support

Promotes vein and blood vessel health, prevents hypertension in nitric oxide-deficient conditions.

9. Anticancer Potential

Components such as asiatic acid show cytotoxic effects against breast and ovarian cancer cells by inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis.

10. Anti‑depressant & Anxiolytic Effects

Traditional and some clinical evidence suggests it supports mood stabilization, with mild sedative and anticonvulsant effects.

12. Cosmetic & Aesthetic Benefits

Widely used for anti‑ageing, acne treatment, soothing skin care, reducing cellulite, firming body lotions, and scalp health.

🔬 Key Active Phytochemicals

  • Triterpenoid saponins: asiaticoside, madecassoside
  • Triterpene acids: asiatic / madecassic acid
  • Flavonoids: quercetin, kaempferol, others
  • Phenolics & essential oils

Overall, Centella asiatica is a multi-functional medicinal herb with established wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, anticancer, metabolic, and cosmetic benefits. Its bioactive compounds support a wide range of therapeutic uses – from skin regeneration and cognitive enhancement to cardiovascular and metabolic health.