Common Name Standardized: colaOther: abata cola, bissy nut, kola Botanical Name Cola acuminata (Pall.) Schott & Endl.Plant Family: Sterculiaceae Overview IntroductionTropical Africa is the native home of the towering kola tree growingup to 40 feet (13 meters) tall. Its yellow flowers tinged with purplebear reddish-brown seeds about the size of a walnut with almost no tastebut rich in caffeine. The Igbo, a tribe in southern Nigeria, considerthe kola nut tree to be the first tree (and fruit) on earth. Theyconsider the nut to be a symbol of hospitality, kindness and fraternity.Throughout Western Africa, a small piece of nut is chewed before eachmeal to promote digestion. It was introduced to Europe in the mid 16thcentury by Portuguese traders. The nut is also thought to improve theflavor of any food and to counteract the effects of drinking taintedwater.ConstituentsCaffeine, starch, sugar.Parts UsedThe whole nut. The nuts, either whole or cut retain their caffeinecontent better than kola nut powder and it is recommended that you grindyour Kola immediately before using.Typical PreparationsKola, as its name suggests, is a main ingredient in many traditionalcolas. In herbal medicine, the nut is usually soaked in alcohol to maketinctures. May be taken as tea although bitter, and the powder can betaken as a capsule.SummaryKola nut was used as the main ingredient in cola drinks for many years, but is now mainly used as a flavoring agent. Precautions Specific: Contains caffeine, a nervous system stimulant. Excessive use of caffeine can cause insomnia, nervousness, increase heart rate and the other symptoms of excess caffeine intake. Exercise caution when using with other central nervous stimulants, including bronchodilators or adrenergic drugs.General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.Your browser does not support JavaScript.To view this page, enable JavaScript if it is disabled or upgrade your browser.