CENTELLA-ASIATICA (INDIAN PENNYWORT), AN EFFECTIVE THERAPEUTIC BUT A WEAK SENSITIZER

The sensitizing capacity of Centella asiatica (raw extract) and its tr iterpenic constituents asiaticoside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid has been studied in guinea pigs. The extract itself as well as the 3 a cids were found to be very weak sensitizers. Centella asiatica extract is used effectively in the treatment of keloids, leg ulcers, phlebiti s, slow-healing wounds, leprosy, surgical lesions, striae distensae an d cellulitis. Athough applied frequently to damaged skin, the risk of acquiring contact sensitivity to this plant or its constituents is low .