Nut it’s a tree seed Cuminata tail the Cola nitidagrowing mainly in Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone and on the ivory coast. In African culture, it has an almost ceremonial status – it is given to guests as a symbol of respect and hospitality. Their characteristic, slightly tart taste disappearing subtle sweetness is the effect of the presence of tannins and aromatic compounds, but the real “power” gives them caffeine (2-3.5% mass) and theobromine. One nut can provide up to 200 mg of caffeine – more than double espresso – and thanks to the presence of theobromine, the effect of arousal is milder, but it stays longer.
Kola nuts are available on the Polish market in ethnic food stores, herbal shops and online stores in several forms:
- whole, for traditional chewing;
- ground, ideal for infusions and cocktails;
- in the form of extracts in capsules.
It is worth choosing products from proven suppliers, preferably with an ecological certificate, Because transport from West Africa is long and moisture can reduce the quality of the raw material. Prices start from a dozen or so zlotys for 100 g of powder, and end at several dozen zlotys for a standardized extract.
What’s interesting, that’s it Kola nut extract was the original ingredient … Coca-Cola. Today, in carbonated drinks, we are unlikely to find a real walnut, but the name “Cola” and the legend of exotic nut remained, becoming an element of the marketing identity of the brand. Currently, the company does not disclose the details of the composition, and most caffeine in the drink comes from synthetic sources.
In addition to caffeine, the wheel nut also contains theobromine – Alkaloid known for cocoa, with a milder but longer persistent stimulating effect. We will also find it in its composition Kolan, polyphenols and antioxidants. It is this synergy of the compounds that makes the effect of “stimulation” fast and stays long. In 2023, researchers from Niger Delta University published in World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews an analysis in which they confirmed that caffeine of kola nut It improves concentration, reduces fatigue and stimulates the central nerve systemY, with simultaneous antioxidant effect, full test text.
This does not mean, however, that you can reach for a butt without restrictions. In 2016, a team of scientists in a study published in Journal of Molecular Pathophysiology showed that Chronic nut chewing can increase uric acid, bad LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and lower good HDL cholesterolwhich in the long run can burden the cardiovascular system and metabolism. Similar conclusions come from the experiment published in the magazine African Journal of Physiological Sciences In 2014, which confirmed that the chronic administration of rats in rats caused an increase in blood pressure and changes in the function of blood vessels.
On the other hand, in 2016 scientists, among others With the Federal University of Technology, they have proved that the Nitida cola infusion inhibits the activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymesbeing able to support glucose control, and also protects hepatic tissue from oxidative stress. In turn, an experiment of scientists from The University of Calabar from 2009 showed that a diet with the addition of kola nuts at mice reduced body weight and appetitealthough the effect of arousal was weaker than with pure caffeine.
The safe amount of peanuts for a healthy adult is maximum 1-2 g of powdered walnut per day (200-300 mg of caffeine), taking into account other caffeine sources in the diet. Sensitive people, pregnant women or patients with cardiovascular diseases should start with minimal doses or consult a doctor’s supplementation.
In Western Africa, Kola nuts accompany daily meetings, ceremonies and conversations – they are slowly chewing, allowing the bitterness to give way to subtle sweetness, and energy flows gradually. In our part of the world, we more often reach for forms easier to use: finely ground powder, ready extracts or infusions. Thanks to this, it can be added to the morning smoothie, mix with cocoa in the dessert or pour a pinch into your favorite tea.
In a dry kitchen, Kola can surprise – A bit of powder in tomato sauce, marinade for meat or stew gives the dishes a characteristic depth and delicate spicy. You can also prepare homemade nut syrup, which will be great in refreshing carbonated drinks or non -alcoholic cocktails. The version with the addition of citrus and honey is an interesting alternative to classic lemonade, and at the same time a way to introduce an exotic accent to the diet.
Due to the high content of caffeine, dietitian recommend eating nut circles in the morning or before noonto avoid falling asleep problems. It’s best to start with small doses – especially in caffeine -sensitive people – and observe the body’s reaction.
Sources: Teragota.pl, Pubmed
