As a Malaysian I feel no need for an introduction to Pegaga (Centella Asiatica) because locally it is so widely grown, eaten and, is etched into the traditional Malay medicine mindset as if it has been accepted forever. But why should I as a Malaysian meekly accept that Pegaga is good for a wide variety of skin complaints, surely some simple research should reveal a plethora of vivid evidence giving credence to such claims? Alas, not so, such is the nature of the internet that search engines appear to reveal page after page of search optimized websites that fail to deliver the required information so one has to get more specific in where they search. Being led by a sceptical mind hungry for clarity I was (eventually) not disappointed, there is in fact a wealth of information and scientific study waiting to be discovered by the persistent curious mind.

A great place to start is the online medical journals, especially the ones associated with respected colleges, universities or hospitals. Government websites can be another good source for finding reliable information on your relevant topic. While researching Pegaga (Centella Asiatica), one common and recurring theme I found was that western medicine/doctors seemingly first discovered the wound healing capabilities of Pegaga (Centella Asiatica) in South East Asia during WW2. Although I could find no corroborating evidence to confirm this it does appear that subsequent to this period some serious research was carried out into Pegaga (Centella Asiatica). In Malay traditional medicine Pegaga (Centella Asiatica) has often been used topically for a variety of skin complaints. The science that our ancestors realized but maybe did not fully understand leading to this enhanced healing activity has been attributed to increased collagen formation and angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels). The plant and its extract contains many active constituents including (but not limited to) Asiaticoside that is responsible for accelerated wound healing by raising the levels of antioxidants, Asiatic Acid that influences collagen synthesis & Madecassoside that demonstrates anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects. When considering the efforts by cosmetic companies to utilize Pegaga extract in anti aging and skincare formulations it can be really appreciated once you understand that it helps to improve connective tissue repair that can lead to visible beneficial effects for their customers. So it would seem that even as a Malaysian I did need a re-introduction to Pegaga but what may be even more pertinent is Malaysia now needs to introduce Pegaga to the world.

Below are some links to some very interesting scientific research into Centella Asiatica: