Potential Benefits, Known Risks, and More

Note, too, that the FDA regulates supplements differently from conventional drugs. Not all supplements are vetted for quality and effectiveness.

Risks

Some groups of people should avoid taking gotu kola. According to Casey Kelley, MD, an integrative and functional medicine doctor based in Chicago, it can be harmful to the liver, so people with liver disease should steer clear.

Side Effects

Outside of those groups who should avoid gotu kola, it’s safe for most other healthy people. “Generally, gotu kola is well tolerated,” Kelley says. “However, there are side effects to be aware of.”

• Skin allergy
• Burning sensations when applied to the skin
• Headache
• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Extreme drowsiness

“One way to avoid these side effects is to start yourself off on a lower dose and gradually work up,” Kelley says.

You should always consult your doctor or an integrative nutritionist before beginning any new supplement regimen to discuss whether it’s right for your individual healthcare needs, identify safe dosage, and understand the risks and potential medication interactions.

And you probably shouldn’t take this supplement long term. Limit it to no more than six weeks at a time, because of the potential adverse effects on your liver, Kelley says. “Before you resume, make sure to give your body at least a two-week break,” she says. “Make sure to let your doctor know if the side effects you experience are severe or preclude your day-to-day activities.”