Health benefits of kola nut

The kola nut is used to flavor sodas and as a
supplement to increase energy or improve health.
But what are the health benefits of the kola nut?


The nut comes from the evergreen kola tree, which is found in
the rainforests of Africa. Inside the tree's star-shaped fruits are
white shells, which contain the seeds or kola nuts.
In Nigeria, it is an important cultural symbol for many ethnic
groups. It is given to guests at weddings, funerals, and naming
ceremonies, and it is used in medicine. Ceremonial breaking of
the kola nut is important for making people feel welcome in a
village or gathering.
The kola nut has some reported benefits for health. Here we
explore those benefits and other information about this tropical
nut.

Fast facts on the kola nut:
• The nut is relatively large, being about the size of a chestnut.
• The kola nut has a bitter taste but becomes sweeter, as it is ch
• The kola nut may be beneficial for certain health conditions.
• Whether taken in supplement form or chewed, kola nuts can ha
Health benefits
Regarding the health benefits, kola nuts may be similar to
coffee.

The health benefits of kola nut align with those of coffee .

     Several possible benefits of the kola nut and its products include
the following:

      Boost to metabolism : Kola nut products contain caffeine, whi
may give a person's metabolism a boost.

      Aid to digestion: Kola nut powder and extract may help
digestion. They are thought to promote the production of gas
acid, which increases digestive enzyme effectiveness in the
stomach.

      Increase in circulation: The caffeine and theobromine in the
nut may speed up the heart rate, which increases circulation.
Boost to energy levels : The kola nut naturally stimulates the
central nervous system , which may increase alertness and b
energy levels.

      Antibacterial benefits: One study reported in the Journal of
Biosciences and Medicines indicates that the use of kola nut
extract might stop the growth of harmful bacteria.
There are several health conditions that might be improved by
consumption of the kola nut.

Prostate cancer
Although extensive studies have not been conducted, early
research indicates that certain compounds found in the kola nut
may decrease the risk of prostate cancer.
The research is still being debated, but it is thought that the
phytoestrogens in kola nuts may kill cancer cells and stop
tumors from growing.

Slow metabolism
People with a slow metabolism could benefit from using
products that contain kola nut.
Conditions that may affect a person's metabolism include low
testosterone , Graves' disease , and Cushing syndrome.

Migraines
The kola nut may be helpful for people who have migraine
headaches. Migraines often affect the blood vessels in the head
and caffeine has been used for headache pain.
The theobromine and caffeine contained in the kola nut may
dilate or widen blood vessels in the brain, which might decrease
migraine pain.

Asthma
Although it may not be recommended as a treatment for
respiratory conditions, kola nuts might be useful for people with
certain breathing problems, such as asthma .
The caffeine in kola nuts may act as a bronchodilator, which
means it opens the airways to make breathing easier.