Gotu kola is used as a mildly bitter herb that stimulates the central nervous system, aids in the elimination of excess fluids, shrinks tissues, decreases fatigue, and increases sex drive. It is used for rheumatism, blood diseases, mental disorders, high blood pressure, and congestive heart failure.

The primary active constituent is triterpenoid compounds, including saponins (also called triterpenoids) known as asiaticoside, madecassoside, and madasiatic acid. These saponins beneficially affect collagen (the material that makes up connective tissue), for example, inhibiting its production in hyperactive scar tissue.

Gotu kola is a rejuvenative nervine and is also recommended for nervous disorders, epilepsy, senility, and premature aging. As a brain tonic, it is said to aid intelligence and memory. It strengthens the adrenal glands and cleanses the blood to treat skin impurities. It is said to combat stress and improve reflexes. It has also been indicated for chronic venous insufficiency, minor burns, scars, scleroderma, skin ulcers, varicose veins, wound healing, congestive heart failure, urinary tract infections, venereal diseases, and hepatitis.