Report on Gotu Kola Side Effects and Usage
Gotu Kola
Natural health supplements sometimes have unexpected side effects or interactions with medication that can lead to adverse reactions that are sometimes life threatening. The following is a list of cautions that you should be aware of before using Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica, Hydrocotyle asiatica). These are referred to as drug/herb interactions.
Warning 1 – Antidiabetics: Gotu Kola may decrease the effectiveness of antidiabetics.
Warning 2 – Antilipidemics: Gotu Kola may decrease the effectiveness of antilipidemics.
Warning 3 – Photosensitivity: This herb is known to sometimes cause exaggerated sunburns or, more rarely, an allergic reaction to sunlight with itching and blister like eruptions.
Used as a natural health remedy: Gotu Kola is commonly used externally healing mild wounds.
Usage 2: Gotu Kola is used internally as an antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcerogenic, anxiolytic, a cerebral tonic, a circulatory stimulant, a diuretic, nervine and as a vulnerary to speed the healing of wounds.
Usage 3: Gotu Kola stimulates the sex drive and has been used as an Aphrodisiac.
Side Effects of Gotu Kola
The known side effects of using Gotu Kola include the following:
- fainting
- headache
- hypersensitivity
Other side effects may also occur when using Gotu Kola. (See form below)
As with any herb, a serious allergic reaction is possible. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. These may include a rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Return to the Herb List.
For questions and answers about the side effects of herbs see the Herb Forum
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