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When taken by mouth: Gotu kola is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth for up to 8 weeks. It may cause nausea and stomach pain. Rarely, gotu kola may also cause liver problems if taken by mouth.
When applied to the skin: Gotu kola is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when applied to the skin for up to 12 months. Gotu kola may cause itchiness and redness.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy: Gotu kola is
POSSIBLY SAFE for pregnant women when applied to the skin. There isn't enough reliable information to know if gotu kola is safe to take by mouth when pregnant. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Lactation: There isn't enough reliable information to know if gotu kola is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Liver disease: There is concern that gotu kola might cause liver damage. People who already have a liver disease should avoid using gotu kola. It might make liver problems worse.
Surgery: Gotu kola might cause too much sleepiness if combined with medications used during and after surgery. Stop using gotu kola at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
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Although generally safe when used in recommended doses, some side effects have been reported.
While uncommon, side effects may include headaches, nausea, drowsiness, dizziness and skin irritation. If you experience these or any other adverse reactions after taking gotu kola, you should discontinue use and consult your health care practitioner.
Additionally, most research advises against usage for longer than six weeks and recommends taking a two-week break if using for an extended period of time.
Most also recommend against using gotu kola if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding as its effects have not been studied on infants or children.
Finally, because high doses can act as a sedative, some sources caution against using gotu kola in combination with medications that are used to treat anxiety or sleep disorders. *
