Kola Nut (Cola acuminata)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Sterculiaceae (Malvaceae)
• Common Names: Kola Nut, Bissy Nut, Guru Nut
• Parts Used: Seeds (nuts)

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Description

Cola acuminata is an evergreen tree native to West Africa, where its caffeine-rich nuts have been traditionally used as a stimulant, appetite suppressant, and digestive aid. Kola nut is an important part of West African cultural and medicinal traditions and is also used as a natural energy enhancer in herbal preparations and beverages.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in West African traditions for energy, endurance, and as a social offering.
• Historically consumed to aid digestion and relieve nausea.
• Employed in traditional medicine to alleviate mental and physical fatigue.

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Constituents

• Caffeine
• Theobromine
• Polyphenols
• Tannins
• Essential oils

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Actions

• Stimulant
• Nervine
• Digestive tonic
• Bronchodilator
• Mild diuretic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Mental Alertness and Energy Boost:
Kola nut is traditionally used to enhance focus, reduce fatigue, and increase stamina.

2. Digestive Support:
Acts as a bitter digestive stimulant to improve metabolism and reduce bloating.

3. Respiratory Health:
Its bronchodilatory effects may help ease breathing in mild respiratory conditions.

4. Circulatory Stimulation:
Encourages blood flow and may support cardiovascular function in moderation.

5. Appetite Suppression and Weight Management:
Used traditionally to reduce hunger and increase energy levels.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1 tsp of ground kola nut per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes and drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Powdered Nut:

• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp mixed with water or honey for energy support.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: High caffeine content should be used with caution.
• Sleep Disruptions: Avoid excessive consumption, especially in the evening.
• Heart Conditions: May increase heart rate and blood pressure in sensitive individuals.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: Can cause mild stomach irritation in some individuals.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional West African Medicine: Warming and stimulating; supports energy, endurance, and digestion.
• Ayurveda: Balancing for Kapha, but may aggravate Vata and Pitta in excess.

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Combinations

• For Focus and Mental Clarity: Combine with rosemary and gotu kola.
• For Digestive Support: Combine with ginger and cardamom.
• For Circulatory Stimulation: Combine with cayenne and cinnamon.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Seeds are collected from mature pods and sun-dried.
• Storage: Store dried nuts in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Cola acuminata’s stimulant, bronchodilatory, and digestive-supporting effects, reinforcing its traditional medicinal uses.

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Kola nut remains a valuable herbal remedy for energy, mental clarity, and digestion, with deep cultural significance in West African traditions.