Joy Onuorah

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.

In terms of taste, the plant is well named. The edible seeds have a notably bitter taste, while there is also a slight sweetness to them. When consumed, bitter kola offers many nutrients, and studies have shown that the plant is high in carbohydrates, fat, protein, vitamin c, calcium, potassium, iron and caffeine.

Health benefits of bitter kola nut:

The aphrodisiac credentials

Traditional medicine considers bitter kola to be an aphrodisiac, so it’s believed to increase sexual desire, pleasure and performance. With these qualities in mind, you might want to try some bitter kola to help turbo-charge your sex life.

Remedy for osteoarthritis

With symptoms ranging from uncomfortable to debilitating, an osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis. 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.

The causes of osteoarthritis can include joint injury, obesity, ageing as well as hereditary factors.
Research had also proven that bitter kola may significantly reduce the inflammation and pain associated with the condition. The plant also increased joint movement in patients.

Bitter kola has antibacterial qualities

A study published in the Science Journal of Microbiology has shown that both the bitter kola seeds and leaves have antibacterial properties. Bitter kola was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus Pyogenes, Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli, and the plant was able to inhibit these microorganisms.

The antibacterial activity was found to be due to the presence of bioactive components in the extract such as tannin, and saponins.

Bitter kola may improve the function of the lungs

Results from research conducted recently showed that bitter kola has a positive effect on the lungs and can improve ventilation levels. Extracts of the plant have also been studied in relation to asthma, and there is the suggestion that bitter kola may have some protective effects against respiratory disorder.

Bitter kola nut may improve the immune system

Bitter kola has a high concentration of antioxidants, which is a term for any compound that counteracts free radicals. Free radicals damage DNA, cell membranes, and other parts of cells. So, 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.

Bitter kola is an anti-malarial agent

Bitter kola contains the antioxidant kolaviron, which according to research published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine, shows positive results for antimalarial properties.

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.

Bitter Kola may help fight glaucoma

A study in the Middle East African Journal of Ophthalmology showed that bitter kola is useful for reducing the pressure in the eye for newly diagnosed patients. It is important to note that you must follow professional medical advice and treatment if you have glaucoma, even if the condition is newly diagnosed.