Health Benefits of Bitter Kola

Regarding the benefits of bitter kola, did you know that bitter kola has been used to treat or fight infections from common cold to hepatitis?

It derived its name from an African common tree and it is also said that first preparations for Coca-Cola were obtained using the extracts of the common African tree called Bitter Kola plant. As it is, the company has not used the Kola to prepare their sodas in years.

Bitter kola, also known as Garcinia Kola or Bitter cola, is a common African plant found in West and Central African which has been valued for its tremendous medicinal uses.

Bitter kola seeds has bitter flavor that seems sharp but gradually eases into sweetness as you chew it. They are however eaten raw.

Nutrients in Bitter Kola

Generally, FDA considers bitter kola safe to consume but classifies it as same or similar to essential oils. This indicates that there’s no detailed information available regarding nutritional data or serving sizes.

Although, a study conducted in 2013 found that bitter kola is enriched in the following nutrients:

• Fat
• Protein
• Carbohydrates

Also, the study showed that benefits of bitter kola are found in its high levels of:

1. Calcium
2. Iron
3. Vitamin C
4. Potassium
5. Caffeine

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Bitter kola, scientifically known as Garcinia kola, is a fruit native to West and Central Africa. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is believed to offer various health benefits. While it’s important to note that scientific research on some of these potential benefits is still ongoing, here are some insights into the reported benefits of bitter kola:

Antioxidant Properties: Bitter kola is rich in antioxidants, which are compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals can contribute to oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: The anti-inflammatory properties of bitter kola may help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is associated with several health conditions, including arthritis and cardiovascular diseases.

Immune System Support: Bitter kola is believed to have immune-boosting properties, possibly due to its antioxidant content. A healthy immune system is crucial for the body’s defense against infections and diseases.

Asthma Relief: Some traditional uses of bitter kola include its application in the management of respiratory conditions like asthma. It is believed to help improve respiratory function and alleviate symptoms.

Anti-Microbial Properties: Bitter kola has been investigated for its potential antimicrobial effects. It may have activity against certain bacteria and fungi, which could contribute to its traditional use in treating infections.

Weight Loss Aid: There are anecdotal reports suggesting that bitter kola may have weight loss benefits. Some people believe that it can help suppress appetite and boost metabolism, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Improved Digestion: Bitter kola is thought to have digestive benefits. It may help stimulate digestion and alleviate some digestive issues. However, scientific evidence on this aspect is limited.

Diabetes Management: Some studies suggest that bitter kola may have potential in managing diabetes by helping regulate blood sugar levels. However, more research is needed to establish its effectiveness and safety in this regard.

It’s important to approach the consumption of bitter kola with caution, as excessive intake may lead to adverse effects.

Additionally, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking medications should consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating bitter kola into their diet or using it for medicinal purposes.

While traditional uses and preliminary studies indicate potential benefits, more rigorous scientific research is needed to fully understand and validate the therapeutic properties of bitter kola.

Health Benefits 

The seeds of this flowering plants has been eaten for years, however, researchers and scientists have just started to study the benefits of bitter kola.

According to recent studies, benefits of kola have been seen to help with health problems such as:

Inflammation

Infections

Diabetes

Inflammation:

One of the benefits of bitter kola is that it has been used to fight Inflammatory conditions like arthritis. A recent study showed that patients with osteoarthritis  in their knee region showed a significantly reduced inflammation after eating bitter kola.

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It is said that the bitter kola is enriched with potassium and the high levels of potassium in bitter kola is also a contributing cause in bringing down the effects of inflammation.

Infections

Another one among the benefits of bitter kola is that it is has been in use for the treatment of common cold and hepatitis.

A study conducted in 2008 signified that bitter kola may help fight against coughs, bacterial and viral infections. When an infection starts, eating bitter kola may help combat the infection and make one feel quite better.

Diabetes

Recent studies suggest that a chemical known as kolaviron found in bitter kola may help protect against  hypoglycaemia in individuals with type 2 diabetes. However, these studies were carried out on rats and has not been reproduced on humans. As it is, these findings are somewhat promising.

Other Benefits of Bitter Kola

The following are some other benefits of bitter kola

Treatment of Impotence

According to researches, it has been shown that garcinia kola causes increments in sexual craving in male and such is used in treating impotence.

Disease Resistance

One of the benefits of bitter kola is that it empowers the body system to adjust to pressure and furthermore fights against infections.

Lung Wellness

Garcinia kola contains saponin which causes cell reinforcement. It has purging effects and detoxifying impacts. This goes to work on the capacity of the lungs by growing the alveolar sacs and channels and thereby reinforces the fiber in the lung tissue.

Treating Malaria

Bitter kola is said to have compound properties that permit it to have antimalarial significance. Thus, it contains kolaviron, which proffers cell reinforcement and mitigating phytochemicals which has high antimalarial effects.

Other benefits of bitter kola are:

Weight reduction

Counteraction from glaucoma

Cold and fever

Safe pregnancy

How Do You Prepare Bitter Kola?

Bitter kola can be consumed uncooked like many other known nuts or on its own.

Bitter kola can be an acquired taste and that being said, there’s a reason for calling it “bitter”.

There are some drinks which have been flavored with Bitter kola at African markets or maybe on online stores.

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Fidel Perez

A graduate of Computer Science and Information Management Technology. Diploma – Caregiving, Certificates – Dementia and Diabetes Awareness and Management. A researcher, blogger, songwriter, singer and acoustic guitarist. Born in an environment where natural talents such as healing are imparted at our natural birth. This natural talents of healing is the result of our genetic inheritance and the training from family environment.