Gotu kola
Generic name: gotu kola [ GO-too-KOE-la ]
Drug class:Herbal products
What is gotu kola?
Gotu kola is an herb also known as Brahma-Buti, Centella, Divya, Hydrocotyle, Indischer Wassernabel, Indian Pennywort, Indian Water Navelwort, Madecassol, Mandukaparni, Marsh Penny, Thick-Leaved Pennywort, White Rot, and other names.
Gotu kola has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating venous insufficiency (decreased blood flow return from the feet and legs back to the heart).
Other uses not proven with research have included treating skin wounds, psoriasis, coronary artery disease ("hardened arteries"), circulation problems caused by diabetes, and preventing blood clots in the legs during air travel.
It is not certain whether gotu kola is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Gotu kola should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.
Gotu kola is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.
Gotu kola may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use gotu kola if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
Gotu kola applied to the skin may be possibly safe to use during pregnancy. However, it is not known whether gotu kola taken by mouth will harm an unborn baby. Do not take gotu kola if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether gotu kola passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.
How should I use gotu kola?
When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.
If you choose to use gotu kola, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommen...
