Can I eat thankuni leaves daily? A deep dive into the nutritional aspects

October 8, 2025 •

4 min read

According to research on traditional uses, gotu kola (thankuni leaves) has been consumed for centuries for its potential health benefits, including supporting cognitive and digestive health. But can I eat thankuni leaves daily without posing a risk, and what does scientific evidence say about long-term use of this versatile herb?

Quick Summary

This article explores the safety, health benefits, and potential risks associated with consuming thankuni leaves, also known as gotu kola. It provides guidance on safe consumption periods, highlights individuals who should avoid or be cautious with its use, and emphasizes the importance of consulting a healthcare provider before adding it to a daily regimen.

Key Points

Moderate, Short-Term Use: For most healthy adults, consuming thankuni leaves in moderation for up to six weeks is generally considered safe.
Caution with Prolonged Use: Due to potential, though rare, risk of liver damage, it's advised to take a two-week break after every six weeks of use, especially for long-term daily consumption.
Amount Matters: Using high amounts of thankuni leaves can increase the likelihood of side effects like drowsiness, nausea, and stomach upset.
Medical Consultation is Essential: Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, particularly liver disease, or those taking other medications should consult a doctor before starting daily intake.
Not for Everyone: Pregnant or breastfeeding women and those undergoing surgery should avoid oral consumption of gotu kola.
Traditional Uses Abound: Thankuni has historically been valued for its benefits to cognitive function, skin health, and circulation, among others.

Understanding Thankuni Leaves (Gotu Kola)

Thankuni leaves, botanically known as Centella asiatica, are a staple in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, where they are revered for their wide-ranging therapeutic properties. The plant, which grows in marshy areas, is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, and minerals like magnesium and iron. It has been a part of cuisine in many cultures, often added to salads, brewed into teas, or incorporated into curries. However, the approach to incorporating any medicinal herb into a regular diet should be done with caution and an understanding of its potential effects, especially when considering daily intake.

Can I Eat Thankuni Leaves Daily?

While moderate, short-term use of thankuni leaves is generally considered safe for most healthy adults, daily, long-term consumption requires careful consideration. Herbal medicine recommendations often advise against continuous use for extended periods, such as beyond six weeks, without a break. The primary reason for this caution is the potential for adverse effects, particularly on the liver. Although rare, cases of liver injury have been linked to gotu kola, especially with prolonged use or high doses.

Considerations for Regular Consumption

Duration: Experts often recommend using gotu kola orally for no more than six weeks at a time, followed by a two-week break. This cycle allows the body to process and clear the active compounds, reducing the risk of potential toxicity, particularly to the liver.
Usage: The amount of thankuni leaves consumed is a critical factor in safe use. While specific amounts can vary by product and purpose, it is critical to follow the advice of a healthcare provider. Using more than recommended can increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness and gastrointestinal issues.
Form of Consumption: The form in which thankuni is consumed can also affect its impact. Fresh leaves, often eaten in salads or juiced, may preserve more of the water-soluble nutrients and active compounds. Tea brewed from dried leaves is another traditional method, while concentrated extracts in capsules offer a way to consume active compounds.

Health Benefits of Thankuni Leaves

Despite the need for caution with long-term use, thankuni leaves offer a range of well-regarded health benefits when used appropriately:

Cognitive Enhancement: Gotu kola is celebrated for its ability to boost cognitive function, memory, and concentration, and may protect against age-related mental decline.
Stress and Anxiety Relief: With adaptogenic properties, it helps the body manage stress and promotes calmness. Studies have shown it can reduce anxiety and stress levels.
Wound Healing: The active compounds, especially triterpenoids like asiaticoside, stimulate collagen production and improve circulation, which can accelerate the healing of wounds, burns, and scars.
Skin Health: Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial for treating various skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne, and for promoting more youthful-looking skin.
Digestive Support: Traditionally used to soothe gastrointestinal inflammation, thankuni leaves can aid digestion and relieve symptoms like indigestion and bloating.
Improved Blood Circulation: Gotu kola can help strengthen blood vessel walls and improve blood flow, making it beneficial for conditions like varicose veins.

Potential Risks and Interactions

While the benefits are notable, awareness of the risks is essential for safe consumption.

Potential Side Effects

Gastrointestinal Issues: Some individuals may experience nausea, stomach upset, or diarrhea, especially with high amounts.
Drowsiness and Dizziness: Large amounts can cause excessive drowsiness, dizziness, and headaches.
Skin Irritation: Topical application can cause itching or redness in some people.
Liver Damage (Rare): The most serious concern with long-term, high oral consumption is potential liver damage. This is a rare occurrence but a significant risk for those with pre-existing liver conditions.

Drug Interactions

Hepatotoxic Drugs: Taking thankuni with medications that can harm the liver increases the risk of liver damage.
Sedative Medications: The calming effects of gotu kola can amplify the effects of sedatives, leading to excessive sleepiness.
Diabetic Medications: It might affect blood sugar levels, potentially interacting with medications for diabetes.

Comparison: Moderate vs. Prolonged Use


Feature	Moderate, Short-Term Use (e.g., up to 6 weeks)	Prolonged, High Use (e.g., over 6 weeks)
Associated Benefits	Cognitive support, wound healing, stress relief, skin health, digestive aid	Can potentially yield sustained benefits, but risks may outweigh them
Potential Risks	Mild gastrointestinal discomfort, drowsiness (rare)	Increased risk of liver damage (especially with pre-existing conditions), intensified side effects
Safety Profile	Generally considered safe for most healthy adults	Safety profile is less certain and requires greater caution and medical supervision
Recommended Action	Follow recommended usage guidelines, monitor for side effects, and consider a healthcare provider's opinion	Consult a healthcare provider before beginning, use with caution, and take recommended breaks

Conclusion

So, can I eat thankuni leaves daily? The answer is nuanced. While short-term, moderate consumption can offer valuable health benefits, daily, long-term intake is generally not recommended without medical supervision due to the potential for liver toxicity and other side effects. It's important to respect the potency of this medicinal herb and follow established usage guidelines, such as taking a two-week break after every six weeks of use. Before beginning any new herbal regimen, especially on a daily basis, a consultation with a healthcare professional is the safest and most prudent course of action. This is particularly crucial for those with liver conditions, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals taking other medications.

For more comprehensive information on the scientific backing and traditional uses of gotu kola, you can visit the WebMD entry on Gotu Kola.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is often recommended to not take gotu kola orally for longer than six weeks at a time. A two-week break should follow if you plan to resume consumption.

Potential side effects, especially with high or prolonged use, include gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, upset stomach), drowsiness, dizziness, and headaches. In rare instances, liver problems have been reported with long-term use.

Individuals with liver disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those who are scheduled for surgery should avoid consuming thankuni leaves. A doctor should be consulted for anyone with existing health conditions or taking other medications.

Yes, thankuni leaves can interact with certain medications. This includes drugs that can harm the liver, sedatives, and medications for diabetes. Always discuss with a healthcare provider before combining thankuni leaves with other prescriptions.

Gotu kola is known for boosting cognitive function, reducing stress and anxiety, aiding in wound healing, improving skin health, and supporting blood circulation.

You can add fresh thankuni leaves to salads, blend them into smoothies or juices, or brew the dried leaves into a tea. The leaves can also be incorporated into traditional curries and side dishes.

The 'better' option depends on your health goals and personal tolerance. Fresh leaves offer the full spectrum of nutrients but are less standardized. Supplements provide a specific amount of active compounds but require careful vetting for quality. Consulting a healthcare provider can help determine the right form for you.