Herb Pharm Gotu Kola
Brand: Herb Pharm · Form: LIQUID, SUPPLEMENT FORM [E0165]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the primary ingredient in this product is calcium, not gotu kola. Based on the data provided, we cannot assess the safety or efficacy of gotu kola specifically. Our assessment focuses on the calcium content from the available data. Calcium is well-supported for bone health, but the data also highlights significant risks at high intake levels [NIH ODS].
How it works
Calcium acts as a master regulator for your body. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it is critical for neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Think of it as the building block that keeps your skeleton strong and your muscles and nerves communicating properly.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS] [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Do not take this product if you are looking for gotu kola effects, as no data on that herb was provided. If you are taking this for calcium, be very cautious. Data not available for a specific daily dose. Start with a low dose and get your blood calcium levels checked. Always take calcium supplements with food and separate them from the medications listed above by at least two hours [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Herb Pharm |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 1.0 fl. Oz. 30.0 mL |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide