Although side effects of natural remedies rarely happen, there are really instances that a person will have unwanted reactions to certain natural remedies. Gotu Kola is not exempted to the list of herbal remedies that can possibly cause side effects to the person taking it. It is of great importance to ask or consult your physician first, before using Gotu kola, since it can possibly have reactions to certain medications you are presently taking, or it can have effects that can possibly aggravate any present medical condition.
What is Gotu Kola?
Gotu kola is a type of plant that is usually found in India, Japan, China, Indonesia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the South Pacific. It has been used for a very long time in China, Indonesia, and India, as a treatment for several medical conditions, including psoriasis, narcolepsy, anxiety, insomnia, scleroderma, and many more. Way back, Gotu kola was known to be a “Fountain of Life”, because, there was this herbalist who used Gotu kola and lived for more than 200 years.
Is Gotu Kola Safe?
Generally, taking in of Gotu kola in any accepted form is considered to be safe. However, there are no clinical studies or researches to support that Gotu kola is still safe when taken in large quantities or higher doses. If you are currently taking Gotu kola and observed any abnormal reactions, discontinue taking Gotu kola right away and talk to your physician or go to your nearest medical center for consultation and evaluation of your present condition.
Side Effects of Gotu Kola:
- Tumor Growth – studies show that the Asiaticoside, a component of Gotu kola, has been found to cause tumor growth. People with history of precancerous growths should never use Gotu kola.
- Liver Damage – for those people who are at higher risk for liver damage, such as people with high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides, and people who have present liver conditions, such as hepatitis or liver cirrhosis, must NEVER take Gotu kola. Gotu kola, especially when taken for longer periods of time, can cause liver damage, and/or aggravate present liver problems.
- Increased Blood Sugar Levels – diabetics should take Gotu kola with utmost precaution, since it can affect the body’s utilization and production of blood sugar or glucose.
Dosage and Administration of Gotu Kola:
The standard and safe dosage of Gotu kola will depend on how it is prepared.
- Dried Gotu Kola – using the dried herb as a tea preparation can be taken up to 3 times per day.
- Powdered Gotu Kola – this usually comes in a capsule form. Dosage available is from 1000 mg to 4000 mg. It can be taken up to 3 times per day.
- Tincture – 30 to 60 drops, taken up to 3 times daily.
