Kola Nut - Powdered (Cola nitida)
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A religiously and socially symbolic seed like no other on this planet. It is used in rites of kolanut communion in bucolic African communities, especially in Igboland in particular and Nigeria in general. It is the famed ingredient in Coca Cola, but has long been revered for its stimulant effects. In Western Africa these trees are usually found growing near the sea-coast, and a big trade is carried on with the nuts by the natives of the interior- Cola being eaten by them as far as Fezzan and Tripoli. A small piece is chewed before each meal to promote digestion; it is also thought to improve the flavour of anything eaten after it and even to render putrid water palatable; the powder is applied to cuts.
The primary active chemicals in kola nut are caffeine and theobromine. They can be found in all parts of the plant, but are found in their highest concentrations in the seeds. Caffeine is a mild stimulant found in coffee, tea, foods, drinks, etc.
It stimulates the central nervous system and improves mental alertness, as well as reducing physical fatigue and appetite. Theobromine produces stimulant effects similar those of caffeine, but it is milder. The amount of caffeine in kola nut can vary, depending on the species.
Concentrations of 2.0%-3.5% caffeine are common in kola nuts from Cola acuminata and Cola nitida (the species most often consumed). The amount of theobromine in these species is almost always somewhere near 1.0%, or a bit less. Other chemicals found in kola nut include betaine and theophylline, both are similar to caffeine in chemical structural and effect.
WARNING: Pure kola nut strengthens the action of analgesics, other psychoactive drugs, and caffeine-containing beverages.
Kola Nut - Powdered (Cola nitida) is classified as an energizer, stimualnt, and cognitive enhancer. |
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