Gotu Cola (Kola, Gbanja Kola)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Cola nitida
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Seeds/nuts
Chemicals this herb contains:
Caffeine
Catechol
Epicatechol
Theobromine

KNOWN EFFECTS

Stimulates central nervous system. Helps body dispose of excess fluid by increasing amount of urine produced. Acts as an astringent. Shrinks tissues. Prevents secretion of fluids. No effects are expected on the body, either good or bad, when herb is used in very small amounts to enhance the flavor of food.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Decreases fatigue. Increases sex drive. Treats high blood pressure and congestive heart failure.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future. Have any chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach or duodenal ulcers, esophageal reflux (reflux esophagitis), ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Breast-feeding:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are under 45, not pregnant, basically healthy, take it for only a short time and do not exceed manufacturer's recommended dosage.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated relatively safe when taken in appropriate quantities for
short periods of time.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS