Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) – Glycerin Herbal Extract BIO • Glycerin Extract 1:1 • Alcohol-Free • Supports Focus and Circulation • 50 ml
Gotu Kola (in Czech, Centella Asiatica) is a herb primarily used in phytotherapy for its aerial parts. In Ayurveda, it is associated with mental care and nervous balance; in traditional Chinese medicine, it is linked to vitality and circulation. Gotu Kola contains triterpenoids (such as asiaticoside and madecassoside), as well as flavonoids and polyphenols. Traditionally prepared as an infusion or decoction, if you are looking for a concentrated form, you will appreciate this herbal extract.
Botanicals For Life offers organic Gotu Kola as an alcohol-free 1:1 extract in drop form, suitable for vegans. 1 ml (approximately 20 drops) corresponds to 1000 mg of 1:1 extract and is made from 1000 mg of dried aerial parts (the manufacturer states an equivalent of approximately 5000 mg of fresh herb). The base consists of plant-based coconut glycerin and purified water. The taste is milder and sweeter than alcoholic tinctures. The bottle provides approximately 50 servings.
Why we included Botanicals For Life in the PraveBio.cz range
Botanicals For Life is a British brand of liquid herbal extracts, led by naturopaths. They work with herbs from certified organic and agroecological farms in Europe and India; for selected species, they also use sustainable harvesting according to FairWild (an international certification and standard for sustainable wild plant harvesting).
The extracts are produced through a subsequent technological process: the dried herb is extracted, alcohol is then removed by rotary evaporation, the extract is freeze-dried and re-dissolved in organic coconut glycerin and purified water. Compared to traditional alcoholic tinctures, these extracts have a milder taste and, due to the absence of alcohol, are more acceptable for many people, including kids. They are therefore suitable for long-term use, while maintaining the strength of 1:1.
The brand emphasizes full transparency: the origin of the herbs, extraction method, and usage context are stated directly on the packaging, including a QR code with extended information. We are the exclusive importer and distributor of the brand for all of Europe.
Herbal Extract of Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica)
The base of the liquid gotu kola extract consists of plant-based glycerin from organic coconut and purified water. Coconut glycerin is suitable for long-term use, and its naturally sweet tone pleasantly softens the taste of the extract. The resulting taste remains distinctly herbal (without added aromas), yet it is milder than traditional alcohol tinctures.
In traditional phytotherapy, gotu kola is classified among herbs associated with care for the mind during everyday mental strain. People seek it mainly for support of concentration and mental clarity, or for comfort during prolonged sitting. The glycerin form is suitable for those who cannot consume alcohol (such as kids and sensitive individuals), or who do not prefer the strong alcoholic taste of tinctures.
For herbal supplements, only health claims approved in the European Union can be stated. Therefore, this description is factual and in a traditional context; further information should be sought independently.
The extract ratio is 1:1: during production, 1 ml of liquid was used for 1 g of dried herb. This is a production ratio – a figure indicating the amount of raw material and liquid used in extraction. Botanicals For Life extracts contain a spectrum of compounds from the whole plant, not just an isolated component.
The recommended daily dose is 20 drops (approximately 1 ml of extract). Drops can be taken on their own or mixed in a small amount of water. Always consult a doctor or qualified professional before use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and in kids.
The package lasts for approximately 50 doses. In the Botanicals For Life portfolio, this extract is part of the MIND & MOOD range, which includes products traditionally associated with mental well-being during mental strain.
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Pravé Bio Recommends: Ideal Combinations with Gotu Kola
- L-Theanine – Supports optimal alertness and focus. In combination with Gotu Kola, it helps maintain mental performance without a subsequent "crash."
- Liquid B Complex – Essential for the normal function of the nervous system. While Gotu Kola targets cognitive functions, B-group vitamins enhance psychological resilience to stress.
- Omega-3 EPA & DHA - Opti3 + Vit. D3 – DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function. It serves as a structural foundation for nerve cells, which are activated by Gotu Kola.
- MagSRT® - Magnesium Malate with Vit. B 500 mg – Contributes to electrolyte balance and reduction of fatigue. It helps both body and mind regenerate effectively and maintain inner peace after a demanding day.
Did you know?
- Indian pennywort / Centella: Gotu kola is often referred to in English as Indian pennywort. In scientific texts, it also appears as Centella asiatica. It is a herb from the Apiaceae family, growing in many tropical and subtropical areas, typically in moist and waterlogged locations. Traditional use mentions the use of the whole plant; for this product, the manufacturer states an extract from the above-ground parts.
- “Herb of longevity”: In China, gotu kola is mentioned as one of the traditional herbs associated with the concept of the “elixir of life”, and the nickname “herb of longevity” also appears in texts. Consider this as a cultural designation and historical context, not a promise of specific effects.
- Alcohol-free extract, difference from infusion: Botanicals For Life describes the processing as a combination of water extraction and for part of the plant material also an alcohol phase for a broader spectrum of plant compounds. The alcohol is then evaporated in a vacuum at low temperature, and the final product is alcohol-free; in the final stage, glycerin from organic coconut is added, which also acts as a natural preservative. Compared to a homemade infusion or decoction, the extract can be consistently dosed by drops.
Main Benefits of Gotu Kola Extract (Centella Asiatica)
- Alcohol-free glycerin form – based on plant-based glycerin from organic coconut and purified water; the taste is herbal and without added aromas, yet milder than alcohol tinctures. Glycerin from organic coconut provides a slightly sweet undertone.
- Dosage and serving – 1 ml corresponds to approximately 20 drops; drops can be taken on their own or mixed in a small amount of water.
- 1:1 Extract – a serving of 1 ml contains 1000 mg of 1:1 extract; the manufacturer states it is made from 1000 mg of dried above-ground parts (approximately 5000 mg of fresh herb). The taste is usually more pronounced than 1:3 or 1:5 extracts, and it is clear how much raw material is actually used.
- Extract vs. infusion – an infusion or decoction works only with water; a glycerin extract can capture different components from the plant profile than homemade preparation.
- Pure composition – only organic gotu kola, plant-based glycerin from organic coconut, and purified water; without blends of other herbs, aromas, and sweeteners.
- Organic and suitable for vegans – ingredients are stated as certified organic; the product is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
- Made in the United Kingdom (UK).
- Ingredient from organic farming – the brand states the origin and method of cultivation and ensures responsible sourcing of ingredients.
- Packaging for 50 servings – one bottle contains approximately 50 servings of 1 ml.
How to choose a herb from the Mind & Mood Botanicals for Life collection
It is important to distinguish between two situations: whether you need support during the day (tension, mood, focus, and mental performance), or whether you are looking for evening relaxation for a smooth transition into rest. Some herbs are used on a regular basis, while others are used specifically as needed – especially in the evening.
When used regularly over the long term during the day, people often turn to green oat tops if there is inner tension and fluctuating moods throughout the day. To support focus, attention, and mental performance, bacopa is often used (traditionally associated with supporting cognitive comfort). For emotionally challenging periods, you can also find St. John's wort – however, be aware of possible interactions with medications; therefore, proceed cautiously and consult a specialist if you are taking medication.
In the evening (and for targeted relaxation), herbs with a gentler, relaxing character are chosen:
- Lemon balm is traditionally sought for a calming sensation and pleasant evening character – usually as part of an end-of-day routine.
- Chamomile has a gentle, tea-like character and is often used for evening relaxation without a feeling of heaviness.
- Valerian is used when tension is accompanied by physical restlessness and is harder to calm. It is more suited to the evening; for more sensitive individuals, it may have a stronger effect.
- St. John's wort is specific in that it is usually not taken randomly but during emotionally challenging periods; due to interactions, increased caution is advised.
What does this mean for everyday use?
- Select 1 herb based on the main purpose (daily tension × focus × evening relaxation) and use it for a few days to better evaluate the change.
- When combining, keep it simple: usually one herb for the day + one herb for the evening as needed.
Why Choose Botanicals For Life
Botanicals For Life is a British brand led by naturopaths from the Mushrooms For Life team. Distribution is handled by Living Planet Distribution (LPD), a company founded in 2016 by Graham Botfield and Ben Shouler. LPD also includes brands like Planet Paleo, Living Nutrition, and Cardio Smile.
For herbal extracts, not only the type of plant matters but also the method of cultivation and harvesting. Botanicals For Life works with herbs from organic farming (certified by Soil Association Organic), agroecological cultivation, and wild crafted sources. If a specific raw material is subject to the FairWild standard, it is indicated on the label.
Extract production: an extract is prepared from the dried plant, followed by evaporation, freeze-drying, and conversion into liquid form. The finished extract is alcohol-free. The base consists of plant glycerin from organic coconut and purified water. The liquid form allows precise drop-by-drop dosing.
The label provides information about the origin of the ingredients, processing method, and recommended use. The packaging also includes QR codes with more detailed information, including warnings about contraindications.
Why we recommend this brand: Each extract clearly states key information: origin of the raw material, cultivation and production method, and any certifications.
The selection is thus based on documented data, not just the name of the herb. In the field of herbal supplements, this level of transparent information is crucial.
Origin of Ingredients
The herbs come from organic farming, agroecological cultivation, or wild crafted sources – depending on the specific plant. The type of origin is indicated on the label. This information is often missing in many extracts on the market.
Independent Quality Certifications
Selected products are certified by Soil Association Organic. For some wild crafted herbs, the FairWild standard is also indicated.
Alcohol-Free
The finished extract is alcohol-free. The base consists of plant glycerin from organic coconut and purified water. Compared to regular alcohol tinctures, the taste of the final extract is more pleasant and suitable for long-term use.
Transparent Information
The label provides details about the origin of the ingredients, processing, and recommended use. Through QR codes, additional information is available, including warnings about contraindications.
Composition
Plant glycerin from organic coconut*, purified water, extract of gotu kola (Centella asiatica) – aerial parts*.
* Certified organic ingredients.
Dietary supplement. Does not replace a varied diet. Do not exceed the recommended daily dosage. Keep out of reach of kids.
Composition Analysis and Its Purpose
Gotu kola (Centella asiatica)
What it is: Extract from the aerial parts of the herb Centella asiatica. In traditional phytotherapy, the herb is prepared as an infusion or decoction.
Function: Gotu kola naturally contains triterpenoids (e.g., asiaticoside and madecassoside), as well as flavonoids and polyphenols. These substances are described in scientific literature as part of the plant profile and are the subject of research.Benefits: Single-herb extract without mixtures of other herbs; practical drop form for those who want gotu kola in a concentrated and easily dosable format.
Glycerin (glycerol)
What it is: In alcohol-free glycerin extracts (glycerites), it serves as a carrier. Compared to regular "plant glycerin" (which may come from a mix of various plant oils), coconut glycerin offers a clear origin in organic quality.
Function: Maintains the herbal extract in a stable liquid form suitable for drop-by-drop dosing.Benefits: The extract can be easily mixed into a drink, and the taste is generally milder and slightly sweeter than alcoholic tinctures.
Other Ingredients
Purified water – complements the glycerin base and keeps the extract in liquid form.
Usage
Serving size is 1 ml (approx. 20 drops). Can be taken alone or mixed with water.
Exact daily dosage is not specified by the manufacturer beyond the serving size on the product page.
Warnings
- Dietary supplement. Does not replace a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
- Do not exceed the recommended daily dosage. Keep out of reach of kids.
- If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or have health issues, consult a specialist about the suitability of use.
- The manufacturer states contraindications on the QR page when taking liver medications, sedatives, diuretics, cholesterol medications, and diabetes medications.
FAQ
Why does Botanicals For Life use alcohol during extraction?
Alcohol is an effective medium in herbal extraction. It is not used to remain in the final product, but to release substances from the plant that are more difficult to obtain with water or glycerin. It helps dissolve water-soluble components as well as some less polar compounds.
For Gotu Kola, an extraction phase is first used to obtain a broader spectrum of plant substances. Subsequently, the alcohol is removed from the extract and the final extract is transferred to an alcohol-free carrier. Alcohol is only a part of the production process here, not an ingredient you consume in the end.
What is the difference between an extract, infusion/decoction, and capsules?
In tea form, Gotu Kola is usually prepared as an infusion (or a briefly boiled decoction). The resulting concentration depends on the amount of herb, water volume, and steeping time, so the dose is not precisely given. Capsules usually contain ground dry matter (sometimes with fillers) without prior extraction.
This product is a 1:1 liquid extract of Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica, aerial parts). 1 ml (approx. 20 drops) provides 1000 mg of 1:1 extract, made from 1000 mg of dried herb (the manufacturer states an equivalent of approximately 5000 mg of fresh herb). The portion is thus clearly defined.
What happens to the alcohol after Gotu Kola extraction?
After the extraction phase is complete, alcohol is removed from the extract under reduced pressure. Thanks to the vacuum, it can evaporate at a lower temperature than would be necessary with normal heating. Alcohol thus fulfills its role in extraction but is no longer present in the final product.
The result is a concentrated Gotu Kola extract without alcohol, which is then transferred into organic coconut glycerin and purified water.
What does the triple (multi-stage) extraction used by Botanicals For Life mean?
Triple or multi-stage extraction refers to a process in which several extraction phases – usually involving alcohol and water – are combined to obtain substances from herbs. Different groups of compounds react to different media: some are better released into water, others into alcohol.
For Gotu Kola, this means the raw material is not processed by a single simple infusion, but step-by-step to obtain a wider range of substances. Detailed parameters (maceration length, media ratios) are part of the manufacturing know-how. For the customer, it is essential that this is a multi-stage prepared extract, not a common infusion.
Why is coconut glycerin used in the final extract – and why does it matter?
Glycerin in the extract acts as a carrier. It keeps the extract in liquid form, allows for dosing by drops, and contributes to the stability of the product without the presence of alcohol.
Botanicals For Life products use organic vegetable coconut glycerin, not generically labeled vegetable glycerin from various commodity oils. This is important information for the customer regarding the origin of the carrier – it is clear from which raw material the medium comes.
Is an alcohol-free extract weaker than a traditional tincture?
An alcohol-free form does not inherently mean the extract is weaker. The final concentration is primarily determined by the extraction method and the ratio in which the raw material is converted into liquid form. Alcohol can be an effective means of releasing certain substances during production, but its presence in the final carrier does not determine the strength of the extract.
The difference between a traditional tincture and this product lies mainly in the form. An alcohol tincture leaves alcohol as the carrier, while here it is removed after extraction and the extract is transferred to coconut glycerin and water. Therefore, it makes sense to judge potency by the clearly given concentration, not by whether the carrier is alcohol-based.
How is the concentration (1:1) defined for Gotu Kola extract?
For herbal extracts, it is better to monitor the concentration than whether the carrier is alcohol or alcohol-free. This is what the 1:1 data is for – technical information about the ratio of raw material and the final extract.
For this product, the manufacturer states that 1 ml of liquid corresponds to a 1:1 extract and provides 1000 mg of 1:1 extract from 1000 mg of dried herb (approximately 5000 mg of fresh herb).
On the market, you often encounter extracts that do not state the ratio at all or use other ratios, such as 1:3 or 1:5. In such cases, it generally holds that the higher the second number, the more diluted the final extract is per unit of volume. In contrast, for an infusion or decoction, it depends on the amount of herb, water volume, and steeping length, so few can estimate the actual concentration. In capsules, you usually know the weight of the ground dry matter, but it is not a liquid extract.
How does Botanicals For Life ensure purity and quality control?
The brand states laboratory testing of finished extract batches for common contaminants. Specifically, heavy metals, microbiological parameters (yeasts and molds), mycotoxins, and pesticide residues are checked.
For the customer, it is essential that this assesses not only the origin of the raw material but also the condition in which the final extract is sold in the bottle. The quality of herbal food supplements is assessed in several steps: where the raw material comes from, how it was processed, and whether the final product meets purity requirements. Only the combination of this information gives a full picture of quality control.
Additional parameters
| Category: | Herbal Extracts |
|---|---|
| EAN: | 658556116456 |
| Manufactured by: | Living Planet Distribution Unit 1 Riverside Bellbrook Business Park Uckfield, TN22 1QQ |
| Country of origin: | Great Britain |
| Vhodné pro: | Vegan-Organic Certification |
| Volume: | 50 ml |
| The item has been sold out… | |
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Botanicals For Life was created in Britain by the team behind the successful brand Mushrooms For Life and is led by experienced naturopath Ben Shouler. The company specialises in premium herbal food supplements – organically or agro-ecologically grown plants are processed using modern extraction methods to ensure high bioavailability of active compounds.
Its mission is to make high-quality natural extracts accessible to a wider audience while at the same time protecting the health of the planet; it therefore focuses on sustainable sourcing, production without synthetic additives and full “Made in UK” manufacturing. Each product supports the vitality, immunity and hormonal balance of modern life, while reflecting the brand’s commitment to transparent quality and ethical business practices.
Renowned herbal supplements thanks to:
- Maximum efficacy – Botanicals For Life uses advanced extraction methods that ensure high bioavailability of active compounds.
- Ecological origin – All herbs come from certified organic farms without pesticides or synthetic fertilisers.
- Transparent production – The products are made in the United Kingdom under strict quality control and full traceability.
- Sustainability – The brand opts for responsible sourcing and eco-friendly packaging to minimise its impact on the planet.
- Expert formulation – All formulas are created by naturopath Ben Shouler and a team of specialists with many years of experience in botanical medicine.
Adaptogenic extracts
Immune support
Women’s hormonal balance
Support for emotional wellbeing
Who is behind the Botanicals For Life brand
The Botanicals For Life brand was founded by naturopath Ben Shouler and nutritional therapist Graham Botfield. In 2016 they jointly established the distribution company Living Planet Distribution to bring innovative, high-quality food supplements to the market. Thanks to their own research, modern extraction technologies and a focus on raw materials from ecological farming, they have built a company that now represents more than ten brands and hundreds of product lines in the field of natural medicine.
Building on the success of their first brand, Mushrooms For Life, focused on medicinal mushrooms, they created Botanicals For Life – a portfolio of organic herbal extracts formulated with the same care and scientific approach. Both brands share a philosophy of sustainable sourcing, maximum efficacy and transparent UK-based production, which has earned them a reputation as a reliable partner for anyone seeking a natural path to vitality.
The mission of Botanicals For Life
The mission of Botanicals For Life is to make premium herbal supplements from ecological farming accessible to the wider public and to connect traditional herbalism with current scientific knowledge. Through state-of-the-art extraction technologies, it maximises the bioavailability of active compounds, while strictly transparent UK production guarantees purity and traceability at every step.
At the same time, the brand is built on sustainable sourcing, eco-friendly packaging and a “zero-waste” mindset, so that care for the health of the planet goes hand in hand with care for human health. The goal is to offer ethical, scientifically informed supplements that support immunity, hormonal balance and overall vitality.
Botanicals For Life within Living Planet Distribution
Botanicals For Life is a premium herbal brand in the portfolio of the British company Living Planet Distribution, which introduced it in 2023 alongside other innovative brands as part of its strategy to offer the highest-quality natural food supplements.
Living Planet Distribution thus acts as a parent distributor and incubator, providing development, manufacturing and global commercial support for Botanicals For Life.
The mission of Living Planet Distribution – under which Botanicals For Life sits together with other brands – is to bring unique, high-quality products to market and provide expert, research-based education.
The company positions itself as an innovator without compromise, with a strong focus on the finest available ingredients, sustainable sourcing and the long-term support of the health of its customers and the planet.
Transparency and education
Each product comes in detailed packaging with information on the origin of the herbs, extraction methods, traditional use and recommended dosage. Via a QR code you can access further details on the energetics of the herbs, contraindications and additional information.
Botanicals For Life is committed to transparency and sustainability – offering products that benefit personal health while also contributing to a healthier planet.
Product ranges of targeted health-supporting formulas
Mind & Mood
Adaptogenic, nootropic and nervine herbs for mental clarity and emotional balance. Includes extracts of ashwagandha, chamomile and valerian root.
Digest & Detox
Diuretic, bitter and hepatoprotective herbs to support digestion and detoxification. Contains extracts of burdock, milk thistle and dandelion.
Male Support
Adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory herbs for men’s vitality with stinging nettle root.
Female Support
Toning and detoxifying herbs for hormonal balance and skin health with chaste tree, red clover and sage.
Ageing & Longevity
Herbs that support cardiovascular health, cognitive function and overall longevity, such as extracts of hawthorn and turmeric.
Immunity
Adaptogenic, immunomodulating and antimicrobial herbs for immune support. Contains extracts of astragalus, echinacea and oregano oil.
Who are the founders of Botanicals For Life
Graham Botfield
Founder Graham Botfield is a nutritional therapist and researcher specialising in the gut microbiome and the traditional use of herbs.
He has worked with leading supplement brands, including New Chapter, whose founder and master herbalist Paul Schulick strongly influenced Graham’s approach to developing nature-inspired supplements. Together with a specialist microbiologist, Graham is continually creating new fermented formulas and studying their benefits.
Alongside fermentation, Graham’s great passion is education. He uses his research as a basis for lectures on the benefits of fermented plants in addressing modern health challenges.
Ben Shouler
Ben Shouler is a British naturopath and the founder of the brands Planet Paleo and Botanicals For Life. Following his own health crisis in early adulthood and the study of natural medicine while travelling across Asia, he discovered the potential of collagen and herbs to support recovery and health.
In 2016 he founded Planet Paleo to fill a gap in the market for clean, grass-fed and MSC-certified collagen, which he combines with traditional herbs and functional nutrients.
Today he creates effective, ethically sourced formulas and, as a lecturer, helps to popularise paleo nutrition, collagen and personalised nutrition, inspiring the community to adopt a more sustainable approach to health.
Botanicals For Life offers a wide range of premium organic herbal extracts and natural food supplements that provide comprehensive support for immunity, vitality and hormonal balance.
See for yourself.
Who Botanicals For Life products are designed for
Women 40+
Athletes
Mothers
Stressed professionals
Conscious individuals
Commitments of the Botanicals For Life brand
Natural formulation
Maximum efficacy
Transparency
Education
Sustainability
