Medicinal Plants : Cola vera

Name

Kola

Biological Name

Cola vera
Sterculiaceae

Other Names

Kola, Cola, Guru Nut, Kola Nut

Parts Used

Seed kernel

Active Compounds

Caffeine, with traces of theobromine

Tannins and phenolics; d-catechin, l-epicatechin, kolatin, kolatein, kolanin and in the fresh nut, catechol and (-) epicatechol

Miscellaneous; phlobaphene, an anthocyanin pigment known as kola red, betaine, protein, starch.

Remedies For

Stimulant to central nervous system, anti-depressive, astringent, diuretic.

Kola has a marked stimulating effect on the human consciousness. It can be used wherever there is a need for direct stimulation, which is less often than is usually thought. Through regaining proper health and therefore right functioning, the nervous system does not need such help. In the short term it may be used in nervous debility, in states of atony and weakness. It can act as a specific in nervous diarrhoea. It will aid in states of depression and may, in some people, give rise to euphoric states. In some varieties of migraine it can help greatly. Through the stimulation it will be a valuable part of the treatment for anorexia. It can be viewed as specific in cases of depression associated with weakness and debility.

Combinations : Kola will go well with Oats, Damiana, and Skullcap.

Description

Native to W. Africa, this herb is cultivated extensively in the tropics. particularly Nigeria, Brazil, Sri Lanka. Indonesia and S. America.

Dosage

Decoction: Put l-2 teaspoonfuls of the powdered nuts in a cup of water, bring to boiling and simmer gently for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk when needed.

Tincture: Take l-2 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Safety

No information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.