Coca-Cola's name was inspired by the bitter kola plant, which was initially used in some of the first recipes for the drink. Although Coca-Cola no longer contains kola as an ingredient, its name remains a nod to this African plant.
Bitter kola, also known as bitter cola or Garcinia Kola, is found in Central and Western Africa and has a history of medicinal use, particularly its seeds.
Bitter kola seeds offer a distinct taste, beginning with sharp bitterness and transitioning into a subtle sweetness as you chew, and they are typically consumed in their raw form.
Regarding health benefits, while bitter kola has been a part of African cuisine for generations, recent scientific research has shed light on its potential advantages. These early studies suggest that bitter kola may assist in addressing health concerns such as:
Some Health Benefits:
1. Infections: Bitter kola has a historical use in combatting infections, ranging from the common cold to hepatitis. A 2018 study revealed its potential in addressing coughs, bacterial infections, and viral infections. Consuming bitter kola at the onset of an infection may aid in fighting it and hastening recovery.
2. Inflammation: In Africa, chewing bitter kola seeds has been a traditional approach to alleviate inflammatory conditions like arthritis. A 2008 study demonstrated reduced inflammation in patients with knee osteoarthritis who consumed bitter kola compared to a placebo. The notable potassium content in bitter kola may contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties.
3.Use for Diabetes:
Preliminary research suggests that kolaviron, a compound present in bitter kola, may hold promise in safeguarding against hypoglycemia in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It's essential to emphasize that the initial study was conducted on rodents and has yet to be replicated in human studies. As such, while these early findings are encouraging, further research is required to validate their applicability to human health.
It's important to note that ongoing research is necessary to further explore and validate these potential health benefits associated with bitter kola.
nutritional data
The FDA considers bitter kola generally safe for consumption, although it is classified similarly to essential oils, resulting in limited available information about serving sizes or nutritional data. However, a study from 2013 identified that bitter kola is notably rich in:
- Carbohydrates
- Fat
- Protein
Additionally, this same study highlighted that bitter kola contains elevated levels of:
- Vitamin C
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Caffeine
When it comes to preparation, bitter kola can be consumed in its raw form, similar to various nuts. However, it's essential to note that its name "bitter kola" reflects its acquired taste. For those who find the flavor challenging, there are drinks available, either made from or flavored with bitter kola, which can be found at African markets and online stores. These beverages offer an alternative way to incorporate bitter kola into your diet.
By Andrew Anongu, DailyHealth.
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