Bitter Kola Nuts

Bitter kola, also known as bitter cola or Garcinia Kola, is a plant found in Central and Western Africa that has long been valued for its medicinal properties.

Aphrodisiac

It has been used as an Aphrodisiac in traditional African medicine to treat a variety of health issues, including erectile dysfunction (ED), providing stronger erection and to increase sexual desire (Libido)

Infections

Bitter kola has been used over the years to fight infections from the common cold to hepatitis. A 2018 study showed that bitter kola can help combat coughs, bacterial infections, and viral infections. Eating bitter kola when an infection starts may help fight the infection and make you feel better more quickly.

Inflammation

Bitter kola seeds have commonly been chewed on in Africa to fight against inflammatory conditions like arthritis. One 2008 study showed that patients with osteoarthritis in their knees showed significantly reduced inflammation when eating bitter kola compared to a placebo. The high levels of potassium in bitter kola may be a contributing factor in reducing inflammation.

Diabetes

Early studies suggest that a chemical called kolaviron, which is found in bitter kola, may protect against hypoglycaemia in people with type 2 diabetes. Although this first study was done on rats and has not yet been reproduced on humans, these early findings are promising.

How to Prepare Bitter Kola

Bitter kola can be eaten on its own, uncooked, like many other nuts. Keep in mind, however, that its called bitter for a reason. Bitter kola can be an acquired taste.