3H LABS Introduces High-Potency Gotu Kola to US, Europe as Eye Health Ally

Research reveals Himalca™ as potential natural aid against age-related vision decline shielding eyes from UV radiation and blue light

GOYANG-SI, South Korea, Sept. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nutraceutical company 3H LABS Co., Ltd. launches Himalca™, its proprietary, science-backed gotu kola (Centella asiatica) extract in the US and European markets. Standardized to high concentrations of the beneficial asiacoticoside bioactives, the company has dedicated the bulk of its research on exploring its benefits on eye health in niche research. Himalca will be introduced at Vitafoods Asia and SupplySide West.

Peak harvested, mountain high

The raw material is cultivated in the Himalayan region of India at elevations above 5,000 feet, an area with pristine mountain air and soil. The plant is harvested by hand, by contract farmers to retain the botanical's natural purity and integrity. This eliminates the risk of contamination and minimizes the possibility of mixing with other plant species.

"By choosing hand-picking over mechanical harvesting, we not only ensure the selection of high-quality raw materials but also contribute to environmental preservation," highlights Jerry Bae, CEO and Founder of 3H LABS. "This low-impact method helps prevent pollution from fuel-powered equipment and protects the farmland, supporting long-term soil vitality and sustainable farming practices."

Gotu kola possesses thin, delicate leaves that are prone to wilting, making it difficult to process. To preserve its freshness, the harvested plants are transported immediately to nearby processing facilities, allowing them to be handled and processed while still in their prime condition.

3H LABS employs a gentle—yet powerful—proprietary extraction method known as the DEF process (double extraction and filtration). This custom-developed process concentrates specific compounds, in this case asiaticosides, a triterpene and key phytochemical responsible for multiple wellness benefits traditionally attributed to gotu kola. The process yields a stable, water-soluble powder that is a high-purity extract with consistent potency, verified through HPLC laboratory analysis.

As a new player in the global commercial nutraingredient scene, Himalca is already building a solid research foundation, with a focus on eye health—relatively new terrain in the botanical's scientific evaluation. "Although Centella asiatica is widely hailed for its cognitive and skin benefits, our focus on eye health was driven by its strong antioxidant and cell-protective properties," explains Ryan Lee, Ph.D, Research Director of 3H LABS. "Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is largely caused by oxidative stress in retinal cells. The use of natural agents for eye support is still a developing area and there are only a handful of scientifically validated options on the market. In our studies, Centella asiatica extract and its active compound asiaticoside showed significant protective effects against retinal degeneration."

Findings from three studies—one animal, one lab, and one clinical trial—have demonstrated Himalca's potential as a safe, natural option for inhibiting age-related eye disorders. In the most recent clinical trial, published 2023 in the journal Nutrients, supplementation with Himalca was shown to improve macular pigment optical density (MOPD), a measure of the protective carotenoid pigments lutein and zeaxanthin, which play a crucial role in maintaining the structure and function of the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision and containing the densest concentration of photoreceptors.

Led by Hyelin Jeon, Ph.D, this trial enrolled 80 adults presenting with low MPOD who were randomized to take either a placebo or Himalca. Following six months of daily supplementation, MPOD significantly increased in the Himalca group by 20.5% in the right eye and 5.1% in the left eye with an average boost of 14% increase in both eyes. In contrast, no significant MPOD change was observed in the placebo group.

A clearer vision for the future

"This result suggests that Himalca can inhibit macular degeneration by inducing accumulation of antioxidant carotenoids in the macula," explains Lee. "The retina is one of the most active tissues in the body with high oxygen demand. It is particularly vulnerable to oxidative damage due to constant bombarded by light from the sun and the glow of digital devices—smartphones, tablets, and computer screens. The carotenoids of the macular pigment filter out harmful UV radiation and blue light and reduce oxidative stress."

Results from lab and animal studies support Himalca's role in protecting ARPE-19 cells found in the retina from oxidative damage caused by toxins and oxidized toxic compounds called A2E. A2E are formed largely in reaction to certain wavelengths of light, particularly screen emitted blue light. Himalca helps eye cells survive by activating their natural defense system against oxidative stress, reducing cell death and preventing the buildup of oxidized A2E molecules.

In mice, Himalca prevented chemically induced retinal degeneration, restored retinal structure, and maintained or increased the presence of the light-sensing rhodopsin and opsin. These proteins are essential for visual function by facilitating efficient light absorption, sharpening color vision, and providing overall image clarity.

Himalca is protected by four patents. The water-soluble powdered extract can be incorporated into various formats, including tablets, soft capsules, powders, jellies, or liquids.

The company will showcase its Himalca and its branded ingredient line at:

Vitafoods Asia 2025, Bangkok, September 17-19, 2025, booth # B39

Hi Japan, Tokyo , October 15-17, 2025, booth #1-153

SupplySide West, Las Vegas, October 29-30, 2025, booth #846

About 3H LABS

Founded in 2013, 3H LABS Co., Ltd. develops scientifically validated nutraceutical ingredients by combining innovation with a strong foundation in research. The company specializes in creating unique, branded ingredients that support diverse aspects of health, all backed by rigorous research conducted in collaboration with leading university research groups across Korea. The company works closely with trusted manufacturing partners to ensure long-term quality, consistency, and sustainability.

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SOURCE 3H LABS