Centella asiatica (Gotu kola) as a neuroprotectant and its potential role in healthy ageing

Publication date: Available online 26 July 2018Source: Trends in Food Science & TechnologyAuthor(s): Rasangani Sabaragamuwa, Conrad O. Perera, Bruno FedrizziAbstractBackgroundChronic and degenerative diseases have become major concerns in healthcare and research sectors in the world, especially in hyper-ageing societies. The role of diet in healthy ageing is much emphasized leading to more research on exploring the scientifically backed functional properties of conventional foods. Centella asiatica (Gotu kola) is a herbal plant that is highly valued as a medicine and also commonly used in a variety of cuisine as a green leafy vegetable.Scope and approachThis paper reviews available evidence on health benefits of C. asiatica especially emphasising its role as a neuroprotectant, while providing details on its phytochemistry and pharmacological properties.Key findings and conclusionsComplementing its reputation in traditional medicine as a memory booster, C. asiatica possesses wholesome anti-oxidative properties to attenuate oxidative stress, a high anti-inflammatory potent, neuron regenerative ability, potential for neuron damage prevention, neurotoxicity inhibition effect, anti-anxiety and anti-depressive properties, AChE inhibitory potential and ability to reduce accumulation of amyloid plaques. These comprehensive multifunctional properties make it capable of promoting general neuroprotection as well as simultaneously targeting multiple disease pathways to arrest neurodegene...
Source: Trends in Food Science and Technology - Category: Food Science Source Type: research