Gotu kola is an aquatic plant that spreads on creeping reddish-green
stems. The entire plant, including the rootstock, is harvested by hand
for use as food and in traditional healing. Yet, although it is a
botanical cousin to parsley, all parts of the plant lack any detectable
fragrance or flavor. The herb is called “the fountain of life” in China,
however, because it was consumed daily by Li Ching-Yuen, an herbalist
and Tai Chi Chuan master who reputedly lived more than 200 years.
Gotu kola should be taken on an alternating schedule with a two-week
“off” period, and for no longer than six months total. This herb may
affect how the liver metabolizes medications or increase the effects of
certain medicines. Check with your doctor before using gotu kola if you
take diuretics, antidepressants, diabetes medications or drugs to lower
cholesterol. This herb should not be used during pregnancy or lactation
or given to children. Also, because the compound asiaticoside is
associated with stimulating cell growth in skin tumors in animal
studies, you should not take gotu kola if you have a history of skin
cancer.
