Centella asiatica, or gotu kola, is a medicinal herb that appears in Ayurvedic medicine, traditional African medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine. Some people use it to treat wounds such as burns or cuts, skin conditions, including psoriasis and scleroderma, and as an ingredient in cosmetics and skin care products. It has multiple benefits for skin thanks to its active compounds, including madecassoside, which serves as an antioxidant. Centella asiatica itself also has been shown to have potent antioxidant properties and to be a rich source of amino acids, and there’s additional research showing that it’s a good hydrating ingredient to soothe upset or compromised skin. Centella asiatica as a whole offers anti-aging and protective antioxidant benefits. A 2023 study revealed the plant’s chemical profile consists of phenolic compounds as well as flavonoids. Both compounds help mitigate the damage that pro-aging external agents, like UV rays and pollution, inflict on skin There’s additional research showing it to be a rich source of amino acids to soothe upset or compromised skin, while also improving hydration, making it a great ingredient for dry or sensitive skin.