An herbal remedy in India for thousands of years, today gotu kola is readily available in health food stores. Rumored to treat a variety of medical conditions and boost mental acuity, the herb may possess some beneficial properties, but it isn't risk-free. People with diabetes or hyperglycemia should not take gotu kola. Elevated blood-sugar levels can lead to other medical disorders, so talk to your doctor before using any herbal remedy, and follow your doctor's recommended course of treatment.
Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, is a serious condition that increases your risk of developing diabetes, heart attack, stroke, vision disturbances, kidney disorders, gum disease and nerve damage, according to MayoClinic.com. It's imperative that you have regular blood-sugar tests, since you can suffer from the disorder for years without experiencing symptoms. As your blood sugar rises, it affects your red blood cells, making them stiff and sticky, which then contributes to the buildup of cholesterol in the lining of your blood vessels.
Gotu Kola
Centella asiatica is the botanical name for gotu kola, which is a member of the carrot family. The herb contains volatile oils, camphor, sterols, glycerides, flavonoid, glycoside and sugars, in addition to other constituents, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." Gotu kola may reduce fevers, increase circulation and enhance memory, making the herb potentially beneficial for treating dementia. The herb is also calming and may reduce anxiety, depression and insomnia, reports the "Gale Encyclopedia." Clinical studies verifying these properties, however, are lacking.
Gotu Kola and Blood Sugar
Although studies on the safety of gotu kola are scant, the herb may elevate blood-sugar levels, making it potentially dangerous to diabetics and to those with hyperglycemia. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns diabetics "not to take gotu kola without first talking to their doctor."
Other Side Effects
Gotu kola may also increase cholesterol levels and may damage the liver, reports the University. It may also increase the risk of some types of cancer, including basal cell skin cancer and squamous cell cancer. Side effects include an upset stomach, dizziness, sleepiness and headache. The "Gale Encyclopedia" warns against combining gotu kola with alcohol or other medications, including sedatives, diabetes medications and drugs used to treat cholesterol. Your doctor is the best source of advice for controlling high blood-sugar levels. Use herbal remedies under a doctor's supervision.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gotu Kola
- MayoClinic.com; Why High Blood Sugar is Bad; Nancy Klobassa Davidson, R.N., and Peggy Moreland, R.N.; March 2011
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
