Gotu Kola Side Effects

You might have heard about gotu kola, which is a herb that is native to certain Southeast Asian countries. This creeping plant (Centella asiatica) is mostly found in marshy areas and is characterized by its fan-shaped leaves. It is said that the leaves of gotu kola leaves resemble the old British penny in size and so, the plant is also called Indian pennywort, Asiatic pennywort and water pennywort. It is also known as Hydrocotyle asiatica and Trisanthus cochinchinensis. It is one of those herbs that have been used for a very long time, in its native place. It is the tasteless and odorless leaves and stems of this plant that are used for medicinal purposes. It has a very vital role in Ayurveda as well as traditional Chinese medicine.

Gotu Kola Benefits

As mentioned above, this herb has been used in India, Sri Lanka and some other Southeast Asian countries, for thousands of years. Apart from being used for culinary purposes, gotu kola is also a highly valued herbal medicine, which is used to treat various health problems. The leaves of this plant are widely used in Indian, Sri Lankan and Malay cuisine. This herb is considered as an adaptogen that enhances the body's resistance to stress and fatigue. Apart from that, gotu kola is said to have anti bacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used as a diuretic and cerebral tonic. Nowadays, it is sold as a nutritional supplement too. It is commonly available in the form of dried herb, powder, tincture, tablet, tea, ointment and capsules.

Traditionally, gotu kola is used for treating a wide range of diseases and disorders like hepatitis, syphilis, stomach ulcers, mental fatigue, epilepsy, diarrhea, fever, asthma and arthritis. It is said to be effective in treating blood circulation problems like venous insufficiency, leading to varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis. This herb is also used for treating hypertension and hemorrhoids. It is said that use of this herb is beneficial for enhancing memory and intelligence. It is also claimed to be good for skin health and so, is used to heal wounds and as a remedy for stretch marks. Gotu kola herb is believed to be effective in alleviating the symptoms of leprosy, eczema, skin tuberculosis, scleroderma and schistosomiasis. It is also used for treating insomnia and anxiety.

Side Effects

Even though, it is believed to be a safe herb, gotu kola may cause side effects in some people. The most commonly found gotu kola side effects are drowsiness and itching. Other possible side effects include headache, nausea, dizziness, stomach upset, skin reactions and burning sensation. In most cases, overdose or long-term use of this herb, are found to be the reason behind the occurrence of side effects. Topical use of gotu kola may cause mild to severe forms of contact dermatitis in some people. It has also been observed that some people develop light sensitivity and vertigo, after using this herb. Even allergic reactions can be a possible side effect of this herb. Pregnant and nursing women, kids, people who are using sedatives, diuretics and drugs for hypoglycemia/high cholesterol, must avoid this herb. It has been suggested by some researchers that gotu kola use may lead to liver damage.

So, if you plan to use this herb, it must be done under the strict supervision of a qualified herbal practitioner. It will be better to seek the opinion of your doctor before starting the herbal treatment. Stick to the prescribed dosage and duration of treatment, so as to prevent gotu kola side effects.