**By Steph Swarts, RMT, CNP** *Registered Massage Therapist | Certified Naturopathic Practitioner* 📅 Last Updated: December 21, 2025 ✅ Evidence-based recommendations from a licensed healthcare professional
Gotu Kola has been used in traditional medicine for over 2,000 years, earning its reputation as the “herb of longevity.” This humble plant has been treasured in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for its remarkable therapeutic properties. While this herb offers impressive benefits for brain health, wound healing, and circulation, understanding potential Gotu Kola side effects is essential before adding it to your wellness routine.
Studies show that up to 30% of herbal supplement users experience some form of adverse reaction. While Gotu Kola is generally well-tolerated, knowing what could happen helps you make informed decisions and recognize warning signs early.
What Is Gotu Kola?
Gotu Kola, scientifically known as Centella asiatica, is a perennial herb from the parsley family (Apiaceae) that grows in moist, tropical areas across Asia. This plant has been called one of the “miracle elixirs of life” in traditional Chinese medicine.
The plant contains powerful bioactive compounds called pentacyclic triterpenoids, including asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid. These compounds are responsible for both the herb’s therapeutic benefits and its potential side effects.
Key therapeutic properties include:
- Enhanced collagen production for wound healing
- Antioxidant and neuroprotective effects
- Improved circulation
- Anti-inflammatory activity
It’s important not to confuse Gotu Kola with kola nut (which contains caffeine) or Bacopa monnieri (another herb sometimes called “Brahmi”).
Common Gotu Kola Side Effects
Digestive Issues
The most frequently reported Gotu Kola side effects involve the digestive system. Many users experience nausea, stomach pain, and gastrointestinal upset, particularly when first starting the supplement or taking it on an empty stomach. These symptoms occur because the active compounds can irritate the digestive lining.
To minimize digestive Gotu Kola side effects, always take the supplement with food and start with a lower dose to allow your body to adjust.
Skin Reactions
While Gotu Kola is often used for skin health, topical applications can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Symptoms include itching, redness, and rashes, especially in people allergic to plants in the Apiaceae family (such as celery, carrots, and parsley).
Before using Gotu Kola topically, perform a patch test by applying a small amount to your inner forearm and waiting 24 hours to check for reactions.
Drowsiness and Fatigue
Gotu Kola contains compounds that affect neurotransmitters associated with relaxation and sedation. While this makes it helpful for anxiety, it can also cause unwanted drowsiness during the day. This is one of the Gotu Kola side effects that appears to be dose-dependent, with higher amounts producing stronger sedative effects.
Consider taking Gotu Kola in the evening rather than morning if you need to stay alert during the day.
Headaches and Dizziness
These Gotu Kola side effects are often linked to the herb’s effect on blood pressure and circulation. The plant has vasodilating properties that can lower blood pressure, potentially causing dizziness, especially when standing up quickly. Staying well-hydrated and starting with lower doses can help minimize these symptoms.
These symptoms may also result from:
- Overuse or taking doses that are too high
- Dehydration, particularly since Gotu Kola has mild diuretic properties
- Taking the supplement without adequate food or water
How Common Are These Side Effects?
Research indicates that Gotu Kola extract is generally safe for most people when taken for up to 12 months. The side effects mentioned above are considered uncommon, and when they do occur, they’re typically mild and manageable. Most people tolerate standard doses well, especially when following proper usage guidelines.
Risk reduction strategies:
- Start with lower doses (250-500 mg daily) and gradually increase
- Always take with food to minimize digestive upset
- Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
- Take periodic breaks (2 weeks off after 4-6 weeks of use)
- Monitor your body’s response and adjust accordingly
Serious Gotu Kola Side Effects
Liver Toxicity
The most concerning potential Gotu Kola side effects involve the liver. While rare, cases of hepatotoxicity have been documented in medical literature. The NCBI LiverTox database notes that while generally regarded as safe, Centella has been linked to rare instances of clinically apparent acute liver injury with jaundice.
One study reported three women who developed cholestatic hepatitis after taking Gotu Kola for weight loss over 1-2 months. Liver biopsy revealed acute granulomatous hepatitis with marked inflammation. Additionally, a 15-year-old developed acute liver failure after taking Gotu Kola for acne treatment for six weeks. Fortunately, complete resolution occurred after stopping the supplement.
The good news is that Gotu Kola hepatotoxicity is generally self-limited and only mild to moderate in severity. However, these cases underscore the importance of monitoring for symptoms and stopping immediately if problems arise.
Warning signs of liver problems include:
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stools
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent nausea and loss of appetite
- Unusual fatigue
- Upper stomach pain and itching
If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking Gotu Kola immediately and seek medical attention. People with existing liver disease should avoid Gotu Kola entirely, as it may worsen liver problems. The bioactive compounds belong to the same family of hepatotoxic saponosides found in other herbs known to cause liver issues.
Allergic Reactions
Though uncommon, some people develop allergic reactions ranging from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis. Severe reactions require emergency medical care and include difficulty breathing, throat swelling, and rapid heartbeat.
Blood Sugar Fluctuations
Gotu Kola side effects can include unpredictable changes in blood glucose levels, making it particularly problematic for people with diabetes. The herb may interfere with diabetes medications, potentially causing dangerous blood sugar swings.
Animal studies have shown that Gotu Kola can lower blood sugar levels, but the effects in humans can be inconsistent. The herb may reduce glucose absorption in the digestive tract, which could lead to unexpected drops in blood sugar, especially when combined with diabetes medications like metformin or insulin.
For this reason, medical sources consistently recommend that people with diabetes should avoid Gotu Kola or only use it under close medical supervision with frequent blood sugar monitoring.
Cholesterol and Blood Pressure Changes
While some might view these as benefits, unexpected alterations can be problematic when you’re on medications. Studies show Gotu Kola can significantly decrease LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol. However, some individuals may experience increases in cholesterol levels, suggesting varied responses between people.
These changes can interfere with prescribed cholesterol medications, potentially requiring dose adjustments that your doctor needs to know about. Similarly, Gotu Kola’s blood pressure-lowering effects could amplify the effects of antihypertensive medications, leading to dangerously low blood pressure.
Drug Interactions and Contraindications
Understanding Gotu Kola side effects also means knowing how it interacts with medications. The herb has moderate interactions with at least 28 different drugs and mild interactions with at least 25 more, making it crucial to discuss with your healthcare provider before use.
Sedative Medications
Gotu Kola amplifies the effects of benzodiazepines (like lorazepam and clonazepam), sleep medications (such as zolpidem), barbiturates, and antihistamines that cause drowsiness. This combination can potentially cause dangerous respiratory depression—not just excessive sleepiness, but breathing that becomes dangerously slowed.
Blood Thinners
The herb may increase bleeding risk when combined with warfarin, heparin, clopidogrel (Plavix), or even aspirin. This interaction might not be immediately obvious but can manifest as easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, or in severe cases, internal bleeding.
Diabetes Medications
Gotu Kola can interfere with blood glucose control, making it dangerous to combine with insulin, metformin, or other hypoglycemic drugs. The unpredictable nature of this interaction means you could experience either dangerous hypoglycemia or unexpected glucose spikes.
Liver-Toxic Medications
Taking Gotu Kola with medications that affect the liver significantly increases hepatotoxicity risk. This includes:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Certain antibiotics like erythromycin
- Antifungal medications like fluconazole
- Seizure medications like carbamazepine and phenytoin
- Cholesterol medications like lovastatin and simvastatin
Diuretics and Similar Herbs
Combining Gotu Kola with diuretic medications or herbs like green tea, ginkgo, astragalus, or dandelion can cause dangerous dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. The herb acts like a diuretic itself, so the combined effect can upset the balance of electrolytes your body needs, potentially causing irregular heartbeat or kidney problems.
Who Should Avoid Gotu Kola Completely
Certain groups should not use Gotu Kola due to serious safety concerns. These aren’t “use with caution” situations—these are absolute contraindications where the risks clearly outweigh any potential benefits.
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
The herb may stimulate uterine contractions. Animal studies show it can interfere with fertility. There’s insufficient data on safety during breastfeeding, so avoid use during pregnancy and lactation.
People with Liver Disease
Those with hepatitis or other liver conditions should never take Gotu Kola. Since it can cause liver damage in healthy people, those with existing liver dysfunction face much higher risks.
Individuals Scheduled for Surgery
Stop using Gotu Kola at least 2 weeks before surgery due to interactions with anesthesia that could cause respiratory depression.
Children and Adolescents
Not recommended due to lack of safety evidence. The case of a 15-year-old who developed acute liver failure highlights the risks for this age group.
People with Bleeding Disorders
The herb’s blood-thinning effects make it dangerous for those with clotting disorders like hemophilia.
People with Diabetes or Hyperlipidemia
Due to unpredictable effects on blood sugar and cholesterol, these groups should avoid the herb unless under medical supervision.
Safe Dosage Guidelines
To minimize Gotu Kola side effects, follow evidence-based dosing recommendations:
Recommended Doses
Standard dose: 60-120 mg daily of standardized extract (containing asiaticoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid). This is the recommended daily dose from clinical research.
Cognitive studies: Research participants took 750-1,000 mg per day in studies examining cognitive benefits after stroke and other conditions.
Duration: Take for 2-6 weeks, then take a 2-week break to prevent tolerance and reduce side effect risk.
Starting approach: Begin with 30-60 mg daily and gradually increase while monitoring your response.
Gotu Kola works best with consistent use over time. Most cognitive studies lasted several weeks to months before showing significant benefits.
Signs of Taking Too Much
Watch for these warning signs that may indicate overdose:
- Excessive drowsiness
- Severe nausea or digestive upset
- Headaches
- Transient unconsciousness (in cases of overdose)
- Any liver-related symptoms
Quality and Contamination Concerns
Some sources of Gotu Kola have been contaminated with heavy metals from polluted soil. Always choose supplements from reputable manufacturers that provide third-party testing results.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Signs of liver damage (jaundice, dark urine, severe abdominal pain)
- Severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, throat swelling)
- Cardiovascular symptoms (chest pain, irregular heartbeat)
- Severe neurological symptoms (confusion, severe headache, loss of coordination)
- Blood sugar emergencies if you have diabetes
What to Do If You Experience Side Effects
For Mild Reactions
If you experience mild Gotu Kola side effects:
- Take the supplement with food to reduce digestive upset
- Reduce your dose by half and see if symptoms improve
- Ensure you’re drinking adequate water throughout the day
- Consider adjusting the timing (taking in evening instead of morning)
For Moderate or Severe Reactions
If you experience moderate symptoms or any concerning reactions:
- Stop taking Gotu Kola immediately
- Contact your healthcare provider
- Keep a detailed record of symptoms to share with your doctor
- Do not resume use without medical clearance
Reporting Adverse Reactions
You can report Gotu Kola side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. This helps build the database of known adverse reactions and can help protect other users.
The Bottom Line
While Gotu Kola side effects are generally mild and manageable for most people, the herb carries real risks that shouldn’t be ignored. The most serious Gotu Kola side effects involve liver toxicity and dangerous drug interactions, though these are rare when the herb is used appropriately.
Understanding potential Gotu Kola side effects is not meant to discourage use of this traditionally valued herb, but rather to ensure safe and informed use. By knowing what to watch for, starting with conservative doses, taking the supplement with food, staying well-hydrated, and cycling use, you can help minimize risks while potentially benefiting from Gotu Kola’s therapeutic properties.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting Gotu Kola, especially if you take medications or have existing health conditions. Natural doesn’t always mean safe, and this pharmacologically active herb deserves the same respect and caution you would give to any medication.
Remember: If you experience any concerning symptoms while taking Gotu Kola, discontinue use immediately and consult your healthcare provider. Monitoring for Gotu Kola side effects and responding quickly if they occur is key to safe use. Your safety should always come first.
About the Author
Steph Swarts, RMT, CNP
Steph Swarts is a registered massage therapist and certified naturopathy practitioner with 17+ years of clinical experience helping clients optimize their health through evidence-based supplementation and holistic wellness strategies.
Professional Credentials:
- Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) – Licensed in Ontario, Canada
- Certified Naturopathic Practitioner (CNP)
- Raindrop Technique Practitioner (RTP)
- 17+ years in clinical practice
- Specialized training in Prenatal Massage Therapy
Clinical Expertise:
“As a healthcare professional with naturopathic training, I evaluate supplements using the same rigorous standards I apply in client care. My recommendations prioritize:
✅ Safety: Thorough evaluation of quality and purity
✅ Evidence: Backed by peer-reviewed research
✅ Clinical relevance: Real-world effectiveness for performance and recovery
✅ Professional standards: Third-party testing and manufacturing quality
Over 17+ years, I’ve guided hundreds of clients through their health journey, injury recovery, and overall wellness. Every recommendation reflects my professional commitment to evidence-based natural health.
Professional Memberships:
- Registered Massage Therapist with CMTO
- Member of RMTAO
- Certified Naturopathy Practitioner with NCCAP, CPD, and CMA
- Raindrop Technique Practitioner with Institute Of Energy Wellness Studies
📧 Contact: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.stephswarts.com
📱 Social: https://www.facebook.com/StephanieJSwarts
Professional Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes based on clinical expertise and current research. This does not replace individualized medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.
