Why Centella Asiatica (Ji Xue Cao) Is Nature’s Skin Saviour
Centella Asiatica, Gotu Kola, Pennywort, Tiger Grass, Wild Violet and, for those of us practising Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji Xue Cao… the many names that have been given to this truly brilliant botanical hint at its widespread popularity.
Most recently, it’s been creating a real buzz in western beauty and skincare circles, though its popularity has endured for centuries in the East.
Native to China, Africa and India, Centella Asiatica, Gotu Kola, or Ji Xue Cao, has long been used in eastern cooking, as well as in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Renowned for its cooling and detoxifying properties, it has been hailed as a highly effective natural treatment for many ailments, from colds and fevers to eczema, psoriasis and ageing skin. Of course, modern skincare science now backs up what TCM has long claimed for this precious and powerful perennial…
What Is Centella Asiatica (Ji Xue Cao)?
Centella Asiatica is a widely celebrated botanical known across different regions and healing traditions as Gotu Kola, Pennywort, Tiger Grass, Wild Violet and Ji Xue Cao. Its long-standing use in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda and eastern cuisine reflects just how valued it is for both internal wellness and skin support.
In TCM, Ji Xue Cao is prized for its cooling and detoxifying properties. For centuries it has been used to support concerns ranging from fevers and colds to inflamed, sensitised and problem-prone skin.
The Beauty Benefits Of Centella Asiatica, Or Ji Xue Cao
Ji Xue Cao is naturally rich in amino acids, beta carotene, chlorophyll, fatty acids and phytochemicals, all of which are essential for maintaining skin hydration and overall skin health.
What’s more, the active compounds in Ji Xue Cao — madecassoside, asiaticoside and asiatic acid — act as natural antioxidants, astringents and anti-inflammatories. These combined qualities offer some very versatile and powerfully effective skin benefits.
Nature’s Skin Saviour
The gentle astringent properties of Ji Xue Cao prove highly beneficial for skin prone to eczema, psoriasis, acne and sensitivity, helping relieve the redness, itching and heat associated with these concerns. Skin that was once agitated feels calm and soothed, with many people noting faster skin healing, a decreased likelihood of acne scarring and the prevention of future breakouts.
Advanced Skin Rejuvenation
Natural antioxidant qualities in the Centella Asiatica plant help protect against free radical damage and premature skin ageing induced by exposure to pollution and UV rays. What’s more, it is believed to help stimulate the production of Type 1 Collagen, which over time may help firm and plump skin.
A 2016 study by the Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Science also found evidence of diminishing wrinkle depth as well as enhanced skin tightness and brightening.
Hydrating Hero
Ji Xue Cao is also renowned for strengthening the skin’s moisture barrier, meaning it better holds on to water, elastin and Hyaluronic Acid, leaving the complexion feeling more deeply hydrated.
Super Smoother
Finally, this natural active has been found to help boost blood circulation. This effect reduces toxins in the system and delivers oxygen more effectively around the body, resulting in smoother skin texture.
Shop Dermatology M Products Containing Ji Xue Cao
Blemish Rescue Face Cream
Ideal for combination or oily skin prone to breakouts, acne, Blemish Rescue Face Cream targets excess skin oils, spots and blemishes to help restore balance and a brighter, more even complexion.
Discover More
If you are curious about our approach to skincare and Chinese herbs, you can explore our top TCM herbs and ingredients section or, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us and the team will be happy to help.
