Cola nut

Name: Cola nut

Other Names: Cola acuminata, Kola, Abata cola, kola nuts

Description: Cola acuminata is the botanical name for Cola nut. It is also commonly known as Kola nuts, Kola and Abata cola. It belongs to the Sterculiaceae family. They are evergreen trees, growing to 20 m tall, with glossy ovoid leaves up to 30 cm long. Cola nut is a rough, mottled skinned fruit up to 8" long, containing thin white flesh and large, flat, bright red seeds which are chewed for their stimulatory effects. It is a heart tonic inducing diuresis and retarding tissue waste, and indicated in depressed and enfeebled states of the heart, muscular system, and in depressed states of the mind and nervous system. It has also been recommended in chronic diarrhea with lack of tone. Cola nut are used mainly for their stimulant and euphoriant qualities. They have effects similar to other xanthine-containing herbs like cocoa, tea, coffee, guarana and yerba mate. However, the effects are distinctively different, producing a stronger state of euphoria and well being. They have stimulant effects on the central nervous system and heart. Animal experiments indicate that Cola nut have analeptic and lipolytic (fat-burning) properties, and stimulate the secretion of gastric juices. Human studies show Cola nut have positive chronotropic and weak diuretic effects. In humans it enhances alertness and physical energy, elevates mood, increases tactile sensitivity, suppresses the appetite and is used in Africa as an aphrodisiac.