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Kola nut
( Cola, nitida, Cola acuminata )
Family
Sterculiaceae
Synonyms
Kola, cola, colanut, bitter cola,
bese, goro, esele
Character
Stimulant, diuretic, restorative
Description
Native to the lowlands of the
forests of Sierra Leone, Liberia, the Ivory Coast and Ghana, kola nut
thrives where annual rainfall is between 1300 and 1800 mm. It is an
evergreen tree with rough, long bark fissures and broad leaves. The fruit of
the tree is oblong and elliptical with a green, knobby surface.
Phytochemistry
9 to 10 percent caffeine,
theobromine, anthocyanin, ( methylxanthine ) tannins, and phenolics
Traditional rain forest use
The seed kernel of this plant is
harvested from a very large African tree. The tree has been commercially
cultivated in tropical regions throughout the world as a source of caffeine
stimulation. A drinking decoction made from the seeds has historically been
use to boost energy and stamina; fight weakness, depression or nausea; and,
in some cases, relieve migraine headaches. The people of Ghana used kola nut
extracts for headaches and to sustain them when having to go without food.
Infusions of the bark combined with ginger and some pepper were
traditionally taken for stomach ulcers. Ground preparations mixed with white
clay, ginger, pepper, and kava fruit were taken in enema form for diarrhea
and dysentery.
Modern medicinal applications
This herb is often part of
thermogenic weight loss formulas to increase the burning of fat and inhibit
appetite. It may be found in herbal combinations designed to boost energy
and stamina.
Authentication
Clinical research has found that
using kola nut in combination with Chinese ephedra can boost the process of
thermogenesis, which enhances weight loss.
Safety
As with any caffeine-containing
herb, this substance should be used cautiously and never in excess. If it is
included in an herbal combination, it should be in proper amounts so as not
to cause over-stimulation. Pregnant or nursing mothers should not use this
or any other natural substance without the consent of their physician. |
