Bitter kola, also known as garcinia kola or bitter cola, is a common plant which can be found across Central and Western Africa.
The early
blends of Coca-Cola contained the plant, explaining the similar name, while the
current formula of the world famous drink is no longer flavoured with actual
bitter kola.
Bitter
kola has been used in traditional African medicine for centuries, and is
considered to have many beneficial properties, including being able to help
fight bacterial and viral infections.
In terms
of taste, the plant is well named! The edible seeds have a notably bitter
taste, while there is also a slight sweetness to them. When consumed, bitter
kola offers many nutrients, and studies have shown that the plant is high in
carbohydrates, fat, protein, vitamin c, calcium, potassium, iron and caffeine.
Health
benefits of bitter kola nut:
1.
The aphrodisiac credentials
Traditional
medicine considers bitter kola to be an aphrodisiac, so it’s
believed to increase sexual desire, pleasure and performance. With these
qualities in mind, why not try some bitter kola to help turbo-charge your sex
life!
2.
The nuts may be a remedy for osteoarthritis
With
symptoms ranging from uncomfortable to debilitating, osteoarthritis is a common
form of arthritis. It’s characterised by the degeneration of joint cartilage
and the underlying bone, causing pain and stiffness, especially in the hip,
knee, and thumb joints. The causes
of osteoarthritis can include joint injury, obesity,
aging as well as hereditary factors.
Researchers
at Obafemi
Awolowo University in Nigeria tested bitter kola on the
symptoms of osteoarthritis, and concluded that bitter kola may significantly
reduce the inflammation and pain associated with the condition. The plant also
increased joint movement in patients.
3.
Bitter kola has antibacterial qualities
A study
published in the Science
Journal of Microbiology has shown that both the
bitter kola seeds and leafs have antibacterial properties. Bitter kola was
tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus Pyogenes, Salmonella typhi
and Escherichia coli, and the plant was able to inhibit these microorganisms.
The antibacterial activity was found to be due to the presence of bioactive
components in the extract such as tannin, and saponins.
4.
The nuts may improve the function of the lungs
Results
from research conducted in
conjunction with several Nigerian universities showed
that bitter kola has a positive effect on the lungs and can improve ventilation
levels. Extracts of the plant have also been studied in relation to asthma, and
there is the suggestion that bitter kola may have some protective effects
against the respiratory disorder.
5.
Bitter kola nut may improve the immune system
Bitter
kola has a high concentration of antioxidants, which is a term for any compound
that counteracts free radicals. While environmental stressors such as tobacco
smoke, ultraviolet rays and air pollution cause free radical production, they
are also produced by many normal processes in the body including exercise and
our immune response. Free radicals damage DNA, cell membranes, and other parts
of cells. So, as well as being essential assistance for important functions in
the body, antioxidants also support the immune system. With a strong immune
system we are better able to fight disease and stay healthy.
6.
It may be an antimalarial agent
Bitter
kola contains the antioxidant kolaviron, which according to research published
in the Asian
Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, shows positive results
for antimalarial properties. Traditional healers have for many years prescribed
bitter kola for the treatment of malaria infections, and now, scientific
studies are starting to support their beliefs.
7.
Bitter kola may help to fight glaucoma
Glaucoma
is a condition of increased pressure within the eyeball, causing a gradual loss
of sight, and can result in permanent blindness if left untreated. A study in
the Middle
East African Journal of Ophthalmology, showed that bitter kola
is useful for reducing the pressure in the eye for newly diagnosed patients,
and was as effective as more conventional treatments. It is important to note
that you must follow professional medical advice and treatment if you have
glaucoma, even if the condition is newly diagnosed.
Side effects of bitter kola
It is
important to take any supplement or traditional medicinal product in
moderation. Bitter kola has a number of known side effects.
1.
It can increase blood pressure
If you're
suffering from hypertension, avoid bitter kola, because as reported by Medical News Today, the nut
contains a stimulant with properties that increase the blood pressure.
2.
Bitter kola can cause insomnia
Due to
the presence of caffeine in kola nut, you may find it difficult to sleep after
consumption. Caffeine increases alertness, which may make falling asleep more
difficult for some people.
3.
It can cause tremors (involuntary movements)
Medical
News Today also reports that bitter kola nut can have a negative impact on the
central nervous system and peripheral nervous system, which can lead to
shakiness, anxiousness, and quivering.
Preparation and Cautions
Now that
you are aware of the many potential health benefits of bitter kola, you’ll want
to know how best to prepare it. In traditional medicine, all parts of the
bitter kola plant may be consumed, but it is more common for the nuts to be
eaten on their own and raw.
While the
many health benefits of bitter kola may have you heading straight to the store
to buy a supply, please always be careful when taking any dietary supplements.
Always consult your doctor, and remember to continue to follow their advice on
how to treat any condition you may have. Bitter kola does have properties that
can support the treatment of many illnesses and the prevention of others, while
no dietary supplement is a substitute for professional medical advice.
Culled from
www.Pulseng.com