Kola nut (Cola nitida)Nuts, 50 g

About cola nut (Cola nitida)

The cola nut comes from two almost identical trees, the small cola tree (Cola acuminata, which contains a 4 to 6-part nut) and the large cola tree (Cola nitida, with a 2-part nut), both native to West Africa. The trees are evergreen, have glossy leaves and can reach a height of up to 25 metres. They produce a star-shaped fruit and each fruit contains between two and five cola nuts.

The cola nut has been used for centuries in West African culture and is appreciated by the indigenous people for its stimulating properties, but also to counteract hunger. In ancient times the nuts were also used in shamanic rituals and ceremonies and were made into a force object in the form of an amulet. They were also offered to guests as a sign of respect.

Cola nut was an ingredient in Coca-Cola, but because of the secret recipe it is not known whether this is still the case. However, it is certain that Pepsi still uses the cola nut as an ingredient.

Effects of cola nut

In general, the effect of cola nut is stimulating. It reduces feelings of fatigue, prevents hunger and stimulates mental activity. The nut also has an aphrodisiac effect and you can get a little high from it. The effects are similar to those of coffee, but stronger and different. Therefore it is not wise to use these nuts before going to bed. The effects can last for up to six hours after ingestion.

Active substances

The main active ingredients in cola nuts are caffeine and theobromine:

• Caffeine is a popular stimulant in the western world, especially in coffee, tea and energy drinks. Cola nuts are approximately two percent caffeine. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, resulting in a more awake, alert and energetic feeling.
• Theobromine also contributes to the invigorating effects that are felt after eating some cola nuts. Theobromine is an alkaloid that has about the same molecular structure as caffeine. It is also found in tea and cocoa beans. Although it has a stimulating effect, theobromine is about ten times weaker than caffeine in this respect.

Use

Cola nuts can be consumed in several ways. The simplest way is to chew the whole nuts. However, cola nuts are very bitter, and for this reason they are often mixed with drinks or sweeter foods.

Cola nuts can be ground into a fine powder. If you add a teaspoon of this powder to coffee, tea or even hot chocolate, you add a stimulating kick to the drinks. Honey can be added to counteract the bitter taste of the nuts.

An average daily dose is 2 to 6 grams. It is not recommended to exceed this dosage.

Storage advice

Keep cola nut in its original packaging in a dry and cool place, out of the reach of children.

Safety

Prolonged and intensive use can, as with coffee, lead to habituation and symptoms such as insomnia, nervousness and high blood pressure. Stop using this product immediately if you experience any unwanted side effects. Consult with an expert in case of illness, medication, pregnancy and breastfeeding before using this product. Not suitable for people under the age of 18.

This products is legal in The Netherlands. Worldherbals cannot provide information about the legal status of this product in other countries. If you are not sure if the ordered product is legal in the country where it should be sent, please inform yourself about this issue with the authorities of the country itself. If you order this product to a country outside the Netherlands, you do this entirely at your own risk and you automatically safeguard Worldherbals from any form of legal liability.