The cola nut (or kola) is a fruit with various properties and uses. It has the same name as the tree from which it comes.
Information about the kola nut tree
This plant, endemic to Africa, can reach 13-14 meters in height. As you can imagine, it is a very robust tree, which is enforced. The leaves have an oval shape, while the fruits are star shaped. Regarding the seeds, they are very rich in caffeine (hence it is used as a substitute for coffee). However, it also contains essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium or phosphorus, as well as potassium or betaine. These seeds are wrapped in a shell, from where they are extracted for consumption. There are two types: Cola nitida and Cola acuminata, the latter being more popular.
Its commercial interest has led to it being cultivated in more tropical regions, as it grows more easily in this climate.
Kola nut properties and benefits
- The high caffeine content of the seeds make the kola nut a stimulating fruit for the nervous and psychoactive system, just like coffee. It is ideal to take infusions in a situation of tiredness or fatigue to recover part of the energy.
- Another of its properties is its vasodilator effect, to facilitate blood circulation.
- Helps eliminate toxins and cleanse the body through urine.
- It can cause aphrodisiac effects, therefore its consumption must be moderate and not exceed the recommended dose, which we will see later.
- Some people recommend it to alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea or migraine. Even from depression. In Argan Oil Web we recommend that you first consult your specialist doctor.
- Improves the ability to concentrate.
- It decreases the appetite, which is why many people incorporate it into their diets to lose weight.
How to take the kola nut?
The kola nut has many advantages. One of them is that you can take it in multiple ways so as not to hate it and give a spark of energy to your life. Let’s see the most frequent ones.
- In infusions, alone or with honey, if the flavor seems somewhat strong to you.
- You can chew it directly.
- In a soda.
- Another option is to mix it with guarana. They are very similar products, but the latter has more “light” effects.
What are the contraindications and side effects?
It is necessary to take some precautions before starting to consume it. You should moderate its consumption if you suffer from:
- Tachycardia
- Hypertension
- Ulcers, as it is rich in tannins
- Insomnia or difficulty falling asleep
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, so that it does not cause its effects on the baby
- Not suitable for children under 13 years
These contraindications are due to the high caffeine in the kola nut. As with coffee, you must control the daily dose.
Some of the side effects that it can cause are nervousness, insomnia or headaches. It must be said that the consumption of kola nut is safe and approved by the FDA, as long as the recommended doses are not exceeded:
- Pure: 2-5 g per day
- Solid extract: 0.25-0.65 g per day
- Liquid extract: 2.5-6.9 g per day