History
Cola nut trees have been an important part of African culture for centuries, particularly in Nigeria and West Africa. Africans have long used the pods medicinally to ease labor pains; seeds to relieve diarrhea, nausea, and hangover; and the bark to heal wounds. The wood is also used to build houses, and boats. The nuts are traditionally used as a stimulant and the roots to clean teeth and sweeten breath. Cola nut plays a significant role in traditional African hospitality and social ceremonies. Friends even send nuts as invitations or congratulations. The name for cola drinks is derived from this plant, although the cola nut is no longer used as an ingredient in most commercial drinks.
Function
Cola nuts are used internally as an ingredient for tonics, where there is occasional mental and physical exhaustion. Cola nuts are astringent and bitter-sweet, and because of the naturally occurring caffeine may have a stimulating effect in the body. The cola nut contains 1% to 2.5% caffeine and is responsible for its primary effect in the body.
Uses of Cola
This information in our Herbal Reference Guide is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.
