Kola Nut (Cola spp.)Kola Nut InformationCola is the botanical name of a genus of plants. Members of the Cola genus are more commonly referred to as either kola nut plants or kola nut trees. Traditionally, the Cola genus has been recognized as a member of the Sterculiaceae family, but more recently Sterculiaceae has been moved, to become a subfamily of Malvaceae called Sterculioideae. There are over 100 genera and 2,000 species in the Malvaceae family, and over 120 species in the Cola genus. There is some debate as to whether the classification of Sterculioideae will change again. Many people still consider Sterculiaceae a family. The kola nut is actually the seed pod that is produced by plants in the Cola genus. When the pod is broken open, it reveals the seeds it contains. For thousands of years, kola nut seeds have been ingested by humans for the euphoria and physical stimulation they produce, as well as for medical purposes. The two most potent species are Cola acuminata and Cola nitida. Scientific Classification Of Cola The Cola genus originated in Africa. All species within the genus require steady warm temperatures and high levels of humidity, year round. Besides being grown in Africa, they have been transported to other parts of the globe by humans. Cola plants are now also cultivated in warm, humid parts of the world, such as the Americas and Asia. All species of Cola are evergreen, they keep their leaves all year round. Some may reach a height of 70-75 feet and produce seed pods that weigh over 5 pounds each. Chemistry Of Kola NutThe primary active chemicals in kola nut are caffeine and theobromine. They can be found in all parts of the plant, but are found in their highest concentrations in the seeds. Caffeine is a mild stimulant found in coffee, tea, foods, drinks, etcetera. It stimulates the central nervous system and improves mental alertness, as well as reducing physical fatigue and appetite. Theobromine produces stimulant effects similar those of caffeine, but it is milder. The amount of caffeine in kola nut can vary, depending on the species. Concentrations of 2.0%-3.5% caffeine are common in kola nuts from Cola acuminata and Cola nitida (the species most often consumed). The amount of theobromine in these species is almost always somewhere near 1.0%, or a bit less. Other chemicals found in kola nut include betaine and theophylline, both are similar to caffeine in chemical structural and effect. Kola nut was one of the original ingredients in coca-cola. It was utilized for the taste and caffeine content it added. Until the early 1900's, fresh coca leaves were also an ingredient in coca-cola. The coca leaves were added for their taste and stimulant effect (coca leaves contain cocaine). Medical Uses Of Kola NutWhen taken internally, the large concentrations of caffeine in some species of Cola, can expand air passages in humans. This makes kola nut effective at treating breathing disorders like asthma. Prior to the advent of stronger drugs, kola nut was utilized to treat various maladies and medical conditions, including but not limited to the uses listed below. aphrodisiac How To Use Kola NutYou can buy kola nut powder and whole kola nuts here. They ship from the USA to most countries. Whole nuts are usually broken into smaller pieces and chewed. Powder is best suited to mixing with liquids and drinking. When purchasing kola nut, try to ensure you get Cola nitida, the next most potent species is Cola acuminata. These types are considered real kola nut, by people that consume them often. Some stores sell lower grade kola nuts, but they are not as powerful. Chances are that you are getting a less potent species if Cola nitida or Cola acuminata are not specified. Other types of kola nut will produce a stimulant effect, but you will have to consume more of them than you would if they were from a more potent species. Whole kola nuts are consumed by breaking them open into very small pieces, then chewing the particles in a similar manner to chewing gum. The taste is very bitter, but subsides after a few minutes. Sometimes a mortar and pestle (or something that will do a similar job) is needed to break the nut into smaller pieces. If you would prefer to consume kola nut in a drink, boil about 1-2 teaspoons (1/3 to 2/3 of a tablespoon or 5-10 milliliters) of powdered kola nut in about 1 cup (8 fluid ounces) water. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Drink as is, rather than filtering it. You can add other herbs or spices to suit to your taste. The stimulant effect of consuming kola nut can be very powerful, when compared to taking caffeine in any other form. When ingested by humans, Cola nitida or Cola acuminata can cause euphoria, a feeling of well being, and an enhanced state of awareness. Kola nut is a good stimulant for those who like the effects of caffeine. People that do not like the effects of caffeine should consider betel nut. Most consumers find betel nut more stimulating than caffeine, with a lesser amount of negative side effects. Pregnant women should not consume kola nut. Do not consume kola nut if you have a heart disorder, high blood pressure, insomnia, or ulcers. People that are sensitive to caffeine or stimulants in general should also refrain from ingesting kola nut. Kola nuts contain compounds that are thought to be carcinogenic, when consumed on a daily basis over a long period of time. In some parts of Africa where chewing kola nut is common, there is a higher than normal incidence of cancer of the mouth and stomach. The cancer is probably related to chewing kola nut. copyright © www.a1b2c3.com/drugs/ Books The Encyclopedia of Psychoactive Plants: |
