Centella asiatica is claimed to be able to overcome a number of complaints on the skin, such as dry skin, acne, or sores. However, is that right? Let's get to know what Centella asiatica is and its medical benefits for skin health.
In Indonesia, Centella asiatica is known as gotu kola leaf. Lately, Centella asiatica has been a topic of conversation in the community because its properties are considered very good for beauty, and there are many facial care products now made by adding extracts of this plant.
Benefits of Centella Asiatica for Skin Health
In Centella asiatica, there are saponins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids. These substances are allegedly beneficial for the skin. Well, what are the benefits?
1. Keep the skin moist
Centella asiatica extract can increase the levels of sebum or skin's natural oils, so that the skin's moisture and elasticity can be maintained. The saponin content of this plant is also able to retain water longer on the skin and prevent water evaporation from the epidermal layer on the skin.
Moisturized skin will be more easily protected from problems, such as itchy, dull, or wrinkled skin.
2. Reducing inflammation
In addition to helping maintain skin moisture, saponins can also provide protection to the skin, and relieve skin irritation by inhibiting cells that trigger inflammation.
Based on research results in the laboratory, the effect of Centella asiatica can relieve the symptoms of certain skin diseases, including dermatitis, psoriasis, scleroderma, and atopic eczema. However, the effect of using this herbal plant as a remedy for skin diseases in humans still needs to be further investigated.
3. Prevent and reduce skin damage
Centella asiatica is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic acid. Antioxidants from this plant can reduce inflammation and prevent cell damage that can cause premature aging of the skin.
Premature aging of the skin can be caused by exposure to sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation and pollutants, such as cigarette smoke and vehicle smoke.
4. Accelerate wound healing in the skin
Terpenoids in Centella asiatica have been shown to accelerate wound healing. In addition, Centella asiatica can even be used in burns, because its active ingredient can increase collagen production, and support the formation of blood vessels and new skin cells.
This plant extract has also been proven to help with postoperative wound healing, torn wounds, and wounds in diabetics.
5. Prevents stretch marks and reduces cellulite
Cellulite is a performance problem that is often suffered by people who experience weight gain in a short time, for example teenagers who are in puberty or pregnant women. Well, Centella Asiatica extract is thought to reduce cellulite when applied to areas of the body that are experiencing this problem.
Meanwhile, Centella asiatica can also be used to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy and puberty. However, scientific evidence shows that this plant extract is less effective for reducing stretch marks that have already formed.
If you are interested in using it, you can choose skin care products with Centella asiatica extract levels of 2.5% and 5%. However, pregnant and lactating women should avoid using this plant extract, because it is not yet known whether the content in it is safe for pregnant and lactating women. If you want to use a product that contains Centella asiatica, pregnant and lactating women should consult with your doctor first.
Also keep in mind, although Centella asiatica is an herbal plant, it does not mean its use will not cause side effects. Side effects of Centella asiatica can be irritation and pain in the skin, as well as allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to the contents of this plant.
If you experience complaints about the skin after using a product that contains Centella asiatica, stop using it immediately and consult a dermatologist.
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