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GOTU KOLA (Hydrocotyle asiatica)

DESCRIPTION: Gotu Kola is good when used after a nervous breakdown by rebuilding energy reserves. It is often referred to as, "food for the brain". It increases mental clarity. It combats stress, improves reflexes and energizes the cells of the brain. Gotul Kola helps defend the body against toxins. It contains Vitamins A, G, and K and is high in magnesium.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Gotu kola is used for its anticarcinogenic, antifertility, and antihypertensive effects. It is used to treat chronic venous insufficiency, chronic hypertension, and chronic hepatic disorders. Gotu kola is used topically to treat psoriasis and burns and to promote wound healing in patients with chronic lesions such as cutaneous ulcers, leprosy sores, fistulas, and surgical wounds.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS: Adverse effects of Gotu Kola include sedation in higher doses, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, contact dermatitis, burning, and pruritus (itching). The plant extracts appear to have very little toxicity, although hypersensitivity reactions may still occur. Large doses of gotu kola may interfere with the effect of hypoglycemics. Large doses of gotu kola may interfere with the effect of cholesterol lowering drugs. Topical asiaticoside may cause cancer. Patient must be monitored for CNS depression, including drowsiness and increased sleep time. Blood glucose and serum cholesterol levels need to be monitored with long-term use. There is a potential for sedation, avoid driving until it is known how it affects you. Do not use for contraception. Do not use more than 6 weeks at a time. Do not take when pregnant or suspected pregnancy. Do not take with prescriptions.

PARTS USED: The herb

GENERAL USAGE: Take capsules with meals. Capsules - 400 to 500 mg by mouth every day, Creams, ointments - Applied to affected area every day, up to two times a day, Dried leaves - 0.6 g of dried leaves or infusion by mouth three times a day, Standardized extract (40% asiaticoside, 29% to 30% asiatic acid and madecassic acid, respectively, and 1 % to 2% madecassoside): 20 to 40 mg by mouth three times a day.

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