KOLA NUTS. Latin description: Cola vera. Cola acuminata. Common names: Guru Nut, Cola. Habitat: Native to West Africa, extensively cultivated in the
tropics, particularly Nigeria, Brazil, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Part used: Seed and leaves. Constituents: Caffeine to 2.5%, with traces of theobromine. Tannins
and phenolics; d-catechin, kolatin, kolatein, kolanin, Miscellaneous:
phlobaphene, an anthocyanin pigment known as "kola red", betaine,
protein and starch. Modern use: Stimulant, diuretic, cardiac tonic, astringent, antidepressive.
Kola nuts are used in many formulas for treating depression, tiredness, and
to stimulate the appetite. One of the major uses is the flavouring in the manufacture
of soft drinks.
Traditional use: Indigenous tree to Western and Central Africa, the species
was introduced to the West Indies and Brazil by the natives of Africa. An ancient
traditional stimulant used to aid endurance while hunting, dancing and working
to prevent fatigue. They would often carry the dried nuts with them and break
a small amount from the nut and let this soak in the mouth until it becomes
spongy and then gently squeezed by the teeth to release the active oils. The
seeds of this beautiful tree have been prized for their powerful stimulant effect.
The seeds contain up to 2.5% caffeine and up to 1% Theobromine. Steeping the
powdered nuts for 10 minutes and adding sweetener can make a great tea. Known
as a nervine, tonic agent for the heart, a good general tonic and sometimes
useful in relieving pains of neuralgia and headache.
Strong doses are said to bring on a spine tingling rush of energy enhancing
the sensitivity of the skin's pleasure receptors and increases mental alertness. Contraindications: Considered safe in amounts typically recommended.
Use moderately during pregnancy.
Seed(seeds are broken)
