Research have shown that when consumed, bitter kola offers many nutrients, and studies have also shown that the plant is high in carbohydrates, fat, protein, vitamin c, calcium, potassium, iron and caffeine.
Bitter kola, also known as garcinia kola or bitter kola, is a common plant which can be found across Central and Western Africa.
Though the edible seeds have a notably bitter taste, bitter kola has been used in traditional African medicine for centuries, and is considered to have many beneficial properties, including being able to help fight bacterial and viral infections.
Some of the health benefits of bitter kola nut include:
2. Bitter kola nut may improve the immune system: According to experts, it has a high concentration of antioxidants, which is a term for any compound that counteracts free radicals. As well as being essential assistance for important functions in the body, antioxidants also support the immune system. With a strong immune system we are better able to fight disease and stay healthy.
2. It may be an antimalarial agent: According to research published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, bitter kola contains the antioxidant kolaviron, which, shows positive results for antimalarial properties. It is no news that traditional healers have for many years prescribed bitter kola for the treatment of malaria infections, and now, scientific studies are starting to support their beliefs.
3. The aphrodisiac credentials: It’s believed to increase sexual desire, pleasure and performance because it is considered to be an aphrodisiac.
4. The nuts may be a remedy for osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis with symptoms ranging from uncomfortable to debilitating. It’s characterised by the degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone, causing pain and stiffness, especially in the hip, knee, and thumb joints.
A study at Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria concluded that bitter kola may significantly reduce the inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis. Also, the plant increases joint movement in patients.
5. Bitter kola may help to fight glaucoma: For emphasis, Glaucoma is a condition of increased pressure within the eyeball, causing a gradual loss of sight, and can result in permanent blindness if left untreated. Researches have it that bitter kola is useful for reducing the pressure in the eye for newly diagnosed patient.
6. The nuts may improve the function of the lungs: According to reports from a study, bitter kola has a positive effect on the lungs and can improve ventilation levels. Also, extracts of the plant have been studied in relation to asthma, and there is the suggestion that bitter kola may have some protective effects against the respiratory disorder.
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