It is native to India, China, Indonesia, Australia, the South Pacific, Madagascar, and parts of Africa.
Gotu kola thrives in and around water, but has also been found growing in drier environments.
This plant has been used in India since prehistoric times, both externally and internally, and it is recognized as a powerful tonic and medicinal herb. It is believed to increase longevity, improve energy and brain function, and heal wounds. In fact, gotu kola has been used throughout the world for the treatment of conditions such as leprosy, lupus, varicose ulcers, eczema and psoriasis. Historically, the entire plant was used medicinally. Triterpenes are responsible for the remarkable wound-healing capabilities of gotu kola.