KOLA NUT

In Nigeria, Kola Nut is a natural stimulant for entertaining visitors in a traditional

setting. It is often served first to elders during which some prayers, often directed at the ancestors are made. This has become an important aspect of any traditional ceremony in some Nigerian tribes and even during the entertainment of visitors in some traditional homes. When you are preparing for any traditional event, kola nut 'must' be provided in some tribes in Nigeria. It is often served with crushed peanuts mixed with dried pepper and garden egg 'anyala' on the side. 

What is Kola Nut? 

Kola nut is a nut derived from a tree called Cola trees found in the tropical rainforests of Africa. It has a bitter taste to it probably because it contains caffeine even though it only contains about 3% of caffeine. Nigeria produces more than half of the kola nuts used worldwide. 

To preserve Kola nuts for a long time you only need to store it in a jute bag which is made of vegetable fibre from a jute plant, tied properly to prevent the penetration of air then kept  in a cool and dry place. 

Benefits of Kola Nut: 

It is antimicrobial, detoxifies the liver and protects it from food poisoning. However, there was a study done on kola nut and it was discovered that it could have a negative effect on the liver and kidney. A different study found that kola nut helps with urination and does not affect electrolyte balance. Hypertensive patients that supplement with kola nut saw a reduction in blood pressure. But caffeine present in kola nut can raise the blood pressure of some patients. 

Kola nut aids digestion, circulation and metabolism in the body. In africa, it is believed that when you are hungry and chew kola nut, your hunger for food decreases. labourers including farmers are known to take kola nuts to keep them alert for as long as they are working. It is known to suppress their appetite for food. 

When Kola nut is consumed excessively it can have a negative effect on the body. It can raise blood pressure, cause restlessness and even nervousness. It is known to cause insomnia. People that are allergic to nuts are adviced to avoid kola nut.

**For further clarification on decisions regarding the intake of kola nut, consult a certified medical doctor**