Kola nut: effects and side effects of the seed

Most people know what the main effect of extracts of kola nut is from the consumption of cola drinks of the same name. Looked at in detail, there is even more in the tropical seed.

The effect of the kola nut is varied

The main active ingredients of kola nut, the seed of a fruit from the tropical kola tree, are caffeine and theobromine . At least between three and five percent, their content is even higher than in coffee beans.

• The caffeine from the kola nut was a decisive contribution in the first cola drinks. Like caffeine from coffee or guarana, it has a stimulating effect and wakes you up.
• If you consume kola nut powder, you not only increase your concentration, your heart rate is increased, usually the intestinal function (peristalsis) is also promoted.
• The kola nut is also said to have positive effects on fat burning, but these have not been proven.
• In African folk medicine, kola nuts are used both against fatigue and as a means for faster recovery after a long illness.
• Kola nut is also touted as an aphrodisiac. This effect is probably due to the effects of increased adrenaline and serotonin levels due to the caffeine it contains.

Side effects are possible, but not as common

Kola nuts have a similar effect to coffee, but there are some crucial differences. Since the powder of the dried seed contains more theobromine and the caffeine is also said to be bound differently, unpleasant side effects, if any, are less pronounced.

• So it is rather rare that unwanted effects such as rapid heartbeat or nervousness occur after taking kola nut.
• However, consuming too much kola nut can actually have serious consequences for your body and overstimulate the central nervous system, heart, and muscles.
• Test your personal caffeine tolerance by first consuming a little cola powder. A daily intake of two to a maximum of six grams should not be exceeded.
• Even though the kola nut has always had the reputation of a luxury food in Africa, taking kola nut powder does not necessarily delight the palate of every average European. Due to the bitter aftertaste, it is advisable to add it to food or to wash it down quickly with a drink.

You can find out exactly what Coke actually consists of in another article.