Uses for Cola Nut

Cola nuts (also known as kola nuts) have long been a staple of cultural traditions in many African countries and are harvested from the evergreen Kola tree. These nuts are a key ingredient used in the production of various cola beverages, but the nuts also have a variety of traditional uses still practiced in Africa.

Food Production

• The cola nut is used as an ingredient in a variety of foods and beverages, but is perhaps most notable for its role in soda production. In 1898, in North Carolina, pharmacist Caleb D. Bradham combined cola nut extract with carbonated water, sugar, oils, vanilla and pepsin, eventually dubbing the beverage Pepsi-Cola; this was the start of a multibillion dollar industry that would focus on providing cola-based beverages to thirsty consumers around the world. The cola nut seeds characteristically have a bitter taste with a sugary sweet finish and contain between 1.25 percent and 2.4 percent caffeine.

Hygiene

• Aside from its use in food and beverage production, the cola nut also has hygienic uses typically practiced in places like Western Africa. For instance, native peoples use the cola nuts for chewing, partially to stimulate the mind or fight fatigue, but also to clean the teeth and freshen or sweeten breath.

Medicine

• The cola nut has a variety of medicinal and healing purposes in certain African cultures. For example, the nuts are used to aid digestive problems, like diarrhea, nausea and general symptoms of hangover, including migraine headaches. Cola nuts are also used to ease labor pains and can be made into a healing topical treatment for cuts, inflammations and other wounds.

Social Gestures

• Because of its diverse properties, the cola nut has become a staple gift item to demonstrate feelings of congratulations, good will and friendship in many African cultures. The nuts can be sent as invitations to various events, and in some cultures, must be given by the hosts as a token of friendship at the end of a gathering.

Stimulation

• Cola nuts are often used to fight fatigue or to help stimulate the mind because they contain caffeine. The stimulation experienced when consuming cola nuts is similar to that of drinking a strong cup of coffee or tea, although when consumed in excess, adverse side effects have been reported. The cola nut is also believed to have stimulation purposes in the bedroom. Although there is no proof to support claims of effectiveness, the nuts have been consumed as aphrodisiacs to increase libido.