Bitter kola, scientifically known as Garcinia kola, has its roots in West and Central Africa. The plant has achieved benefits in traditional medicine for its multiple healing powers. The seeds of the plant are commonly known as the “bitter kola”. It contains a thick, firm, and edible seed, and has a very bitter taste.
The plant, along with its numerous medicinal properties, has captured the attention of several anthropologists and researchers.
The seeds of bitter kola are used as a chewed stimulant, particularly in West African countries. Unlike most kola nuts, the bitter kola can be chewed and swallowed rather easily. It is known to provide a more prolonged stimulation as opposed to the more popular kola nut.
The seed has numerous health benefits as it contains high levels of carbohydrates, chlorophyll, protein, and many other nutrients.
This article unveils the amazing, lesser-known benefits of bitter kola, separating folkloric tales from evidence-based facts.
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1. Boosts Immune System
Perhaps the greatest primary health benefit of the bitter kola is its ability to strengthen the immune system. The seeds contain several bioactive components, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins, which have been documented to exhibit antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activities. This makes bitter kola an important component for immune health.
Bitter kola has been often taken to help treat infections ranging from the common cold to influenza and even more serious ailments like malaria. Antioxidants present in bitter kola help fight oxidative stress, which is a crucial factor to weakened immunity. With all these, the regular consumption of kola is, therefore, able to make a critical contribution to a strong immune system and the prevention of illness.
2. Aids Digestion and Relieves Stomach Problems
Bitter kola has been employed as a remedy for digestive complications for a long period of time in some African cultures. The bitter components of the seed work in the body to increase the production of gastric juices, which are needed for effective digestion. This improves the ease with which food is broken down and nutrients are absorbed in the digestive system.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Sustained inflammation affects the heart, the joints, and brings about diabetes. One of the very highly praised medicinal properties of bitter kola is inflammation. Research indicates that bitter kola has an anti-inflammatory agent that works actively around the body, thus, serving as a home remedy for arthritis, pain, and inflammation of the muscles as well.
People suffering from inflammation can find relief from the swelling and pain with the help of bitter kola. It helps the body by decreasing the activity of the inflammatory markers. This is why bitter kola makes a great addition to a well-balanced diet that aims to reduce inflammation and support overall joint mobility.
4. Assists with the Control of Diabetes
One of the most common diseases that plagues humanity today is diabetes. In order to control the symptoms, the blood sugar levels need to be managed. This is, Bitter kola shows promise to assist in managing blood sugar levels. It has been known that the active content of bitter kola helps to enhance the insulin action and decreases the blood glucose level for the body.
Studies have shown that bitter kola can reduce blood sugar levels and positively affect the metabolism of individuals suffering from diabetes. Regular consumption of bitter kola may delay diabetes in susceptible individuals.
5. Promotes Healthy Liver Function
The liver detoxifies the entire body and metabolizes nutrients which makes it vital to the body. Bitter kola is believed to enhance liver function by detoxifying the liver and having protective effects on the liver. Studies show that bitter kola can help prevent liver toxicity associated with different forms of abuse, alcohol, and some environmental toxins.
Bitter kola promotes overall liver health by protecting the liver from oxidative stress and enhancing its detoxification ability. Furthermore, its enhanced metabolic and digestive functions may also help with liver function.
6. Improves Mental Function and Clarity
Bitter kola is known to enhance mental functions therefore, is used to work as a brain booster. The extracts found in bitter kola are believed to assist in the circulation of blood to the brain which enhances concentration. This is of great importance to those with issues of forgetfulness, brain fog, and lack of attention.
Bitter kola has neuroprotective effects that can slow or prevent the degeneration of brain cells which helps in diminishing the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia. It is believed that with regular intake of bitter kola, one will attain improved mental health destined with age and cognition.
7. Supports Respiratory Health
Bitter kola has been used as a natural remedy for respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and cough by itself and in combination with traditional treatments. Science has shown it’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help to clear mucus from the bronchial tubes and soothe inflammation in the lungs.
Bitter kola has also been shown, in addition to its antibacterial effects, to help relax the bronchial muscles. This is an added benefit for increasing the diameter of the bronchi and bronchial tubes and increasing airflow. Ultimately, for people who suffer from chronic respiratory issues, bitter kola may diminish their symptoms and boost their lung function.
8. Skin Health
Along with the lungs, the skin is one of the body’s largest organs and health is pivotal to one’s general health. Through the ages, bitter kola has been used in traditional medicine to help promote healing. Antioxidants in bitter kola work to defend the skin against free radical damage to mitigate aging and defends the skin against premature aging and skin damage.
Bitter kola has also been shown to have anti-microbial properties and assists with the treatment of skin infections, acne, and other skin infections and conditions. Moreover, the ability of the compounds to enhance collagen production, increasing skin fiber tissue and elasticity, reducing even further the appearance of wrinkles, improving the skin overall.
9. May Promote Weight Loss
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall health, and bitter kola has been linked to weight loss benefits. The plant’s natural compounds help to boost metabolism, which can increase the body’s ability to burn fat. Bitter kola also promotes the release of certain enzymes that help break down fats and convert them into energy.
10. Supports Heart Health
Heart disease remains one of the leading global killers, and to live long, one must maintain a healthy heart. Bitter kola has shown the potential of helping heart health by lowering cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, and aiding circulation.
It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, so the bitter kola protective effect on the heart, blood, and blood vessels is free from oxidative stress and breath-taking damage.
Research has shown bitter kola’s ability to reduce heart disease is tied to its ability to improve overall cardiovascular function. Bitter kola promotes heart health by helping blood circulation and decreasing plaque in the blood vessels, thus avoiding blockage of the arteries.
11. Relieves Headaches and Migraines
Bitter kola has the potential to help with fainting spells, migraines, and really bad headaches. Using bitter kola is good because you won’t have to worry about insane side effects. Headaches tremendously benefit from the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Stress and blood flow also have a direct influence on the severity of the headache.
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Conclusion – 11 Amazing Benefits of Bitter Kola (Garcinia Kola) You Probably Didn’t Know
Bitter kola (Garcinia kola) isn’t only a seed that has a bitter taste; it has several health benefits that can enhance your overall well-being. From immune boosting and digestive aid to brain health improvement and heart function, bitter kola possesses properties worthy of a traditional medicinal natural healing.
Though scientific studies continue uncovering the full potential of bitter kola, it is apparent that the range of health and therapeutic benefits that the plant offers is significant. For those looking to boost their immune system, manage their diabetes, or support their brain function, bitter kola can be a great natural addition to your daily routine for health improvement.
As with any herbal remedy, it is best to speak with a healthcare practitioner beforehand, especially for those that are pregnant, nursing, or on medications, to ensure that the herb is used optimally to derive the best therapeutic benefit. Use of bitter kola can be done safely, however.
FAQs – 11 Amazing Benefits of Bitter Kola (Garcinia Kola) You Probably Didn’t Know
What happens to your body when you eat bitter kola every day?
Of course. Eating bitter kola every day can have various effects on your body, ranging from potential benefits to risks, depending on the quantity consumed and your individual health.
What diseases can bitter kola cure?
First, and most importantly: Bitter kola is not a scientifically proven cure for any disease. It is classified as a medicinal plant or nutraceutical, not a pharmaceutical drug. However, it has a long history of use in traditional African medicine and scientific research is actively exploring its potential health benefits.
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