Bitter Kola, also known as Garcinia kola, is a common plant that grows on the evergreen kola tree and has long been cherished for its medicinal properties. It can be found in West and Central Africa’s tropical rainforest regions.
Bitter kola is a plant that has medicinal properties in any aspect of it (seed, stem, nuts, and bark). Antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties are thought to exist in it.
Bitter kola helps in combating nausea based on its bitter flavor, on the contrary bitter kola after chewing has some slight sweetness.
Moreover, Bitter kola nut in Yoruba is called ‘Orogbo,’ Hausa calls it ‘Miji-goro,’ and in Igbo as Akiilu.
The seeds are used to cure health problems, like throat infections, coughs, chest colds, and bronchitis, among other ailments, when the stems are chewed.
Several studies have suggested that this plant contains a bioactive agent that makes it beneficial in the treatment of a variety of illnesses.
Garcinia kola is a powerful herb. When it is eaten in large quantities, the harmful aspects of it become apparent.
Meanwhile, Bitter kola is a traditional sign of hospitality in some parts of Nigeria. In traditional marriages, it is also a required piece.
Some Nigerians and Africans claim that carrying and consuming bitter kola will ward off evil spirits.
Health Benefits of Bitter Kola and Uses
Garcinia kola is a herb that has a variety of health benefits for humans, regardless of one’s views. Just don’t eat too much of it.
Improves Infection of the Lungs
A small volume of bitter kola consumed on a regular basis helps to protect the tissues of the lungs and ensure a healthy respiratory system. It also aids in the treatment of a cold in the chest.
Helps Relieve Glaucoma Eye Pressure
This is a condition that affects the eyes. It happens when there is elevated strain in the eyeball and it results in progressive deterioration of eye sight and potentially blindness if it is not adequately handled.
Research claims that eye drops containing around 0.5 percent of bitter kola extract has demonstrated changes in minimizing pressure in the eye.
Bitter kola is also advised to be eaten twice daily to help relieve eye pressure.
Treat Cough with Bitter Kola
One of the most common ailments that bitter kola can help with is this. This drug is prepared in a variety of ways by various people. Like mixing powder Bitter Kola and Honey.
Some people agree that chewing the peeled seed of bitter kola with a mentholated sweet will relieve cough symptoms and gradually cure it with regular use, according to reviews.
Others assume that it should be ground into about 8 seeds and mixed with honey before being consumed. Both recipes are said to have a strong anti-cough effect.
Relieves Sore Throat
Chewing the seed helps clear a sore throat by increasing mucus distribution around the vocal tube lining, softening the dry/sore throat.
It is used to treat diabetes.
Bitter kola is thought to be a very effective diabetes therapy. It has the ability to lower blood sugar levels, boost the antioxidant function, and prevent lipid peroxidation.
This medication is prescribed for diabetics in the early stages, but if the problem worsens or you don’t feel good with it, seek professional help.
Immune system booster
Bitter kola contains a high amount of antioxidants, which serve to strengthen the body’s immune system, making it more capable of fighting bacteria and pathogens.
It Works as an Anti-malaria medication.
Bitter kola is important in treating malaria because of its chemical ingredients. Orthodox physicians had previously recommended it to their patients for the prevention of malaria and other illnesses. However, the efficacy of this therapy now has scientific support.
The plant’s stems and bark, in addition to the seeds, are used to treat acute fevers and respiratory tract inflammation.
Snake/scorpion poison neutralizer
Snakes are frequently encountered by people who live in rural or bushy areas. To keep snakes, scorpions, and other dangerous creatures at bay, always fumigate your surroundings.
In the event of a snake bite or scorpion sting, however, consuming about 8 pieces of bitter kola instantly will neutralize the poison. Then more medical attention could be needed to ensure the individual is completely healed.
Could be used to treat osteoarthritis
This is a typical form of arthritis in which the joint cartilage degenerates, resulting in joint pain and stiffness. The hips, knees, and thumb joints are the most often affected areas of the body.
Studies shown that bitter kola is helpful in relieving the symptoms of osteoarthritis. It helped people with osteoarthritis alleviate inflammation and discomfort while still increasing joint mobility.
Food poisoning is cured.
Bitter kola’s antibacterial properties make it useful in treating bacterial food poisoning. This plant’s bark and seed aid in the detoxification of the body. When food poisoning is suspected, it is also recommended to chew bitter kola.
Enhances Physical Activity
Bitter kola has the potential to improve sexual performance in people, especially men, according to studies. It boosts sperm count, libido, erection, and ejaculation.
At least 2 minutes before sexual intercourse, one or two parts of the seed should be eaten. The guy will be able to stay in bed for longer as a result of this.
Side Effects of Bitter Kola – Disadvantages
It Affects Blood clotting
Blood clotting is slowed as this plant is consumed in large amounts. Bitter kola should not be consumed in excess by people who have a bleeding condition. People who have surgery scheduled should postpone it as well because it can cause excessive bleeding.
Effect on Blood pressure
Blood pressure can be raised by consuming bitter kola and alligator pepper together. If you have a history of elevated blood pressure, you should steer clear of the pair.
It Has Effect on Diabetic Person
Since this plant contains a high amount of caffeine, it can cause blood sugar levels in diabetics to fluctuate. When people consume so much of the plant’s caffeine, they can experience insomnia and excessive urination.
Effect of Bitter Kola on Pregnant Women
Because of the high caffeine content, bitter kola is not recommended for pregnant women. Caffeine can affect a baby’s weight, appetite, activity, and sleeping patterns while still in the womb. It may also have an effect on a pregnant woman’s blood pressure and heart rate. And worse, it could result in a miscarriage. Pregnant women should also stop consuming this herb.
Anxiety effects of Bitter Kola
People who suffer from anxiety or depression should avoid consuming a lot of this plant because it contains substances that can aggravate the problem.
