Kola Nut Benefits

The kola nut comes from a plant indigenous to Africa that was once widely used as a source of caffeine in carbonated sodas. Coca-Cola Co. still uses kola nut as an ingredient in many of their beverages, according to HealthLine. The herb is now used primarily as a dietary supplement in weight loss and energy formulas. Take precaution to avoid ill effects from overuse, problems arising from combination with other medications, and preexisting medical conditions.

Bronchodilation and Energy

• According to Livestrong, that kola nut contains the stimulants caffeine, theobromine and theophylline. Theophylline relaxes smooth muscle and dilates bronchioles in the lungs to benefit sufferers of asthma and bronchitis, according to Drugs.com. Theobromine makes the heart beat faster, dilates blood vessels, and reduces blood pressure, as well as dilating bronchioles in the lungs, states phytochemicals.info. In addition to opening the blood vessels and lungs, the caffeine and other stimulants in kola nuts provide energy to those suffering from chronic fatigue and tiredness.

Weight Loss and Appetite Suppression

• A Healthline article reported that the kola nut is a central nervous system stimulant that suppresses appetite, aids in digestion and weight loss, and has been used as a treatment for migraine headaches. A Slim Reviews article mentioned an animal study in the Journal of Applied Toxicology that demonstrated kola nut's weight-loss potential. Further, a Livestrong article said that kola nut increases metabolism, decreases appetite, and provides an extra boost of energy that can help with strenuous exercise as part of a general weight-loss regimen.

Digestive Aid and Diuretic

• Kola nut is said to increase the production of gastric acid in the body, which is known to promote healthy digestion. A Holistic Online article noted that the kola nut may be used as a remedy for nervous diarrhea. Members of some Western African tribes are said to chew a piece of kola nut before every meal to aid in digestion, according to a Botanical article.