Side effects of gotu kola are rare and generally mild, but some people experience more severe symptoms.
Gotu kola also presents the risk of drug interactions, especially at higher doses.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Verywell / Getty Images
There are several studies assessing gotu kola for the following potential uses.
Keep in mind, though, that no supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
In fact, older adults experienced better moods.
But it might improve mood by increasing alertness and relieving anger.
Another study looked at the metabolism ofCentella asiaticaand its effects on cognition.
They concludedCentella asiaticamay be useful in mitigating cognitive impairment and warrants further study.
The lack of more comprehensive research warrants further well-designed clinical trials with appropriate gotu kola doses.
Blood Circulation
Historically, gotu kola had many uses.
CVI is a medical condition that tends to happen in your legs.
People with CVI may also experience ulcers.
In a systematic review, phlebotonicslike gotu kolaslightly relieved swelling compared to aplacebo(a substance without medication).
But gotu kola didn’t seem to heal any ulcers.
In this study, gotu kola took an ointment dosage form called Centiderm.
Results from this clinical trial suggest that Centiderm may benefit people with burn wounds.
Moreover, the burn wounds had to be only 48 hours old or less.
However, in another small study, herbal creamslike gotu koladidn’t seem to prevent or delayradiodermatitis.
The study participants received radiation in this clinical trial as part of their breast cancer treatment.
Radiodermatitis is a skin reaction to or side effect of radiation.
Since these studies garnered mixed results and study sample sizes are small, larger, well-designed studies are needed.
What Are the Side Effects of Gotu Kola?
Like many medications and natural products, taking gotu kola may result in certain side effects.
Severe Side Effects
Severe allergic reaction is a serious side effect possible with any medication.
For these reasons, there are no guidelines for the appropriate dosage of gotu kola for any condition.
If you take gotu kola, follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations or label instructions.
Supplement Facts
What Happens if I Take Too Much Gotu Kola?
Though side effects are rare, they are possible with long-term use and high doses.
So, overdoses with gotu kola might be similar to its common or severe side effectsbut exaggerated or excessive.
If you think you’re experiencing an overdose or life-threatening symptoms, get medical help immediately.
John’s wort is generally safe for up to 12 weeks.
But St. John’s wort is likely unsafe while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Don’t take these supplements together or with gotu kola until you talk with your healthcare provider.
They can help prevent possible interactions and side effects.
They can also ensure youre giving these supplements a good trial at appropriate doses.
Can ashwagandha and gotu kola be taken together?
Sources of Gotu Kola and What to Look For
There are several different sources of gotu kola.
This plant can also be cooked in fat (e.g., butter).
Gotu Kola Supplements
Gotu kola is available in several forms, including capsules and tablets.
There are also vegetarian options.
Your specific product will depend on your preference and what you hope to get regarding effects.
Each product may work a bit differently, depending on the form.
So, following your healthcare provider’s recommendations or label directions is essential.
Summary
Gotu kola is a plant from the parsley family.
Gotu kola may also relieve swelling symptoms in people with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).
But this plant has mixed results regarding the healing of ulcers or burns.
Though side effects from gotu kola are rare, they are still possibleespecially at high doses and prolonged use.
There are also several potential interactions to consider.
Published 2022 Oct 30. doi:10.3390/plants11212928
Mount Sinai.Gotu kola.
Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.
2020;11:CD003229.
2017;96(9): e6168.
2023 Dec 1;32(Sup12):S22-S32.
2015;10(10):1779-1784.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Acute liver failure.
Orhan IE.Centella asiatica (L.) Urban: From Traditional Medicine to Modern Medicine with Neuroprotective Potential.
Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.
2019;13(5):261-267. doi:10.5582/ddt.2019.01052
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Grape seed extract.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.St.
National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Dietary supplement label database.
