Bitter kola is considered one of the natural and effective ways to improve human’s health and well-being. For centuries, it has been widely used as a natural traditional medicine that is used to treat several ailments such as coughs, infections, snakebites, fever etc. in the west and Centra Africa.
Thus, due to the essential nutrients and compounds in the native fruit, the benefits of bitter kola for your body and mind is worthy of exploration
What Is Bitter Kola?
Garcinia kola, also known as bitter kola, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Mangosteen genus Garcinia of the family Clusiaceae. Bitter Kola has long been valued due to its rich medicinal properties.
Its seed is however commonly chewed and eaten raw, whereas traditional medicine uses all the parts of the bitter kola.
The use of bitter kola in African cultures transcends just mere natural remedy to illness, it is believed to have mystical and healing powers. It is attributed a lot of significance, as such, it is often used in religious ceremonies and as a symbol of hospitality.
In this article, we’ll be exploring some interesting subtopics on the benefits of bitter kola such as: the benefits of kola in both man and woman, the effects of bitter kola on sperm, bitter kola soaked in water, how to use bitter kola to last longer in bed and some other relevant side effects and precautions related to the use of bitter kola.
Hence, further on, you will be exposed to the top benefits of bitter kola and why you should consider making it a part of your daily dietary supplements.
What Is The Difference Between Kolanut and Bitter Kola?
The bitter kola differs from other types of kola nut in that the nuts are always white in color and are smaller in size. The plant is also more pest resistant, and is only found in the wild, unlike cultivated kola nuts. Their lower moisture content means bitter cola nuts can also be more easily dried.
Benefits Of Bitter Kola In Man and Woman
Let’s take a closer look at some of the top health benefits of bitter kola and how they can positively impact your overall health and wellbeing.
1. Boosting Immunity
Bitter kola contains several compounds such as kolaviron and catechins. These compounds have been found to comprise strong immune-boosting properties that helps to stimulate the immune system.
In addition, it is also helpful to better protect the body against any harmful invaders such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
2. Fighting Infections.
Due to the antimicrobial and antiviral properties that bitter kola possess, it has proven to be an effective natural remedy for various infections such as hepatitis and digestive infections.
According to a study, as provided by WebBp, bitter kola was said to be an effective medicine to combat bacterial infections and other viral infections.
Thus, eating bitter kola when the infection starts can help you to fight the infection faster and better.
3. Reducing Inflammation
According to a study in 2008, it is showed that patients with osteoarthritis in their knees showed significantly reduced inflammation when eating bitter kola compared to a placebo.
Also, according to WebMd:
“Early studies suggest that a chemical called kolaviron, which is found in bitter kola, may protect against hypoglycemia in people with type 2 diabetes. Although this first study was done on rats and has not yet been reproduced on humans, these early findings are promising.”
4. Enhancing Digestion
The high fiber content of bitter kola aids in promoting regular bowel motions and preventing constipation. The bitter elements in bitter kola also promote the formation of bile and digestive enzymes, which aid in food digestion and enhance nutritional absorption.
5. Enhancing Cognitive Function
It has been demonstrated that bitter kola possesses cognitive-enhancing properties that can assist enhance memory, concentration, and general brain function.
Bitter kola extract has been shown in studies to boost brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that is crucial for memory and learning.
6. Weight Loss
6. Weight Loss
Bitter kola is low in calories and high in fiber, thereby, making it a great supplement for weight loss. Basically, fiber helps to increase feelings of fullness, which can reduce overall calorie intake and promote weight loss.
7. Enhancing Libido
Bitter kola has been used as an aphrodisiac for centuries, and contemporary research has shown that bitter kola possess a sexual potential as a homeopathic treatment for infertility. Bitter kola includes substances that have been shown to enhance sexual activity in both men and women, including as saponins and alkaloids.
4 Health Benefits Of Bitter Kola Soaked In Water
Aside the general health benefits of bitter kola mentioned earlier, there are other benefits of bitter kola that are soaked in water. Noteworthy, it’s important that the bitter kola is soaked in water for at least a day in order to ensure due effectiveness in its usage.
The health benefits of soaking bitter kola in water are:
1. Respiration
It helps to cure many illness that are related to respiratory tracts and infections.
2. Pain Reliever
It also serves as a pain reliever, although for such usage, bitter kola may have some side effects. Hence, to avoid the latter, it’s much better to have your bitter kola soaked in water.
3. Sexual Enhancement
Just as mentioned, bitter kola possess some nutrients that makes it very useful for high sexual performances and activities. The intakes of bitter kola soaked in water enhances stamina and helps to last longer in bed.
4. Controls Sugar
Bitter kola soaked in water is also used to regulate the sugar level in the human body. Hence, the reason it was recommended for diabetic patients.
The main side effect of drinking water from soaked bitter kola is that in most cases, it over works the kidney which may result to kidney failure or other kidney problems. However, if you drink enough quantity of clean water, there is nothing to worry about.
Also, excess consumption of bitter kola soaked in water can lead to many health complications, so ensure to consume moderately
How To Use Bitter Kola To Last Longer In Bed
There are several sexual health benefits of bitter kola such as sperm count boost, weak erection and premature ejaculation treatment and builds your penis. Under this section, we’ll be considering the effective ways on how to use bitter kola to last longer in bed.
According to the information provided by Udomoh Eshemokha, a practicing doctor on Nimedhealth.com.ng, the following methods can be effective.
Mixture of alligator pepper, bitter Kola inside coconut water
To prepare this: Take big glass cup of about 1.5 liters.
Take 2 bitter kola remove the posterior shell and chop into thinner pieces, drop them in the glass cup.
Take the alligator pepper and grind into powder, pour a little bit of it in the glass cup.
Pour the Coconut water inside and allow it to permeate for 12 hours.After 12 hours, drink it early in the morning on an empty stomach.
You can add little honey to it, if you like it sweet.This mixture has a bunch of health advantages to humans, helps to boost libido in both males and females.
Soak Bitter Kola In Coconut Water For 2 Day for your libido
Preparation: Get seven bitter kola nuts, remove the back, Pour some coconut water into a cup.Drink a tiny amount of the coconut water each morning and evening after letting the seven Bitter Kolas brew for three days and three nights.
This will increase your self-confidence and assist in treating erectile dysfunction.
Mix Bitter Kola And Water Melon Seed In Water For 3 days to improve your libido.
Preparation:It is made by soaking bitter kola and water melon seeds in bitter lemon drink for three days, then drinking it in the morning and evening.
Basically, this super combination is designed to increase libido, increase performance, and improve overall.
Effects Of Bitter Kola On Sperm
According to a study of Subchronic and chronic treatment of normal male rats with Garcinia kola(bitter kola) extract, it resulted in:
“overall increase in components of libido, erection and ejaculation in treated rats – with lower doses being more efficient than the higher dose. There was a slight reduction in some components of sexual behaviour with prolonged time of treatment. G. kola treatment at all doses resulted in increased testicular weights, increased sperm count with no change in motility and increased serum testosterone levels with no change in gonadotropin levels. Gross testicular histology was not affected by treatment. We conclude that G. kola seed extract possesses potent aphrodisiac activity in male albino rats with resultant increase in sperm count and testosterone levels.”
Citation: C R Sewani-Rusike et al. Andrologia. 2016 Apr
Although it has been reemphasized that Bitter kola boosts erection and libido, however, it’s equally important to note that ingesting excessive amounts of bitter kola in a day or over a long period of time might affect sperm count, motility and its quality.
Nutrients Of Bitter Kola
The fruit known as bitter kola is nutrient-rich and full of many healthy substances. Following is a summary of its nutritional makeup:
Carbohydrate
Around 70% of bitter kola’s weight is made up of carbs, the majority of which are sucrose, glucose, and fructose. Both of them give the body energy and can control blood sugar levels.
Protein
With roughly 8% protein per meal, bitter kola is a healthy source of protein. Building and repairing tissues in the body depend on protein.
Fat:
The average serving of bitter kola contains about 2% fat.
Fibre:
Bitter kola has a high fiber content of 10% per serving. Fiber is crucial for controlling bowel movements and sustaining digestive health.
Vitamins
Vitamins are abundant in bitter kola and include vitamin C, vitamin E, and B vitamins. These vitamins are essential for sustaining general health since they support everything from immune system function to brain function.
Minerals:
Calcium, iron, and potassium are among the minerals that are abundant in bitter kola. Strong bones, healthy blood, and correct neuron and muscle function all depend on these minerals.
Each component in bitter kola has a special role to play in fostering overall wellness and good health. As an antioxidant, vitamin C in bitter kola, for instance, can help shield the body from cellular damage, and potassium can help control blood pressure.
The bitter kola stands out as a nutritious powerhouse when compared to other regularly consumed fruits. For instance, bitter kola has been proven to contain more protein, fiber, and B-vitamins than apples and bananas. Additionally, its high levels of antioxidants make it a valuable addition to any diet.
Overall, bitter kola’s nutritional profile makes it an excellent dietary supplement to help support overall health and wellbeing.
How To Consume Bitter Kola
Let’s look at safe and effective ways to take bitter kola now that we are aware of all of its possible health advantages.
1. Eating raw
Eating raw bitter kola is one of the simplest ways to take it. To release the bitter flavor, simply peel off the nut’s outer coating and chew it. It might take some getting used to for some folks, though, who find the flavor to be excessively strong.
2. Ground Powder
Bitter kola can also be consumed as ground powder, which can then be added to meals or beverages. This technique can make the bitter taste more tolerable by covering it up.
3. Supplements
Capsule forms of bitter kola supplements are readily accessible for consumption in a controlled dosage. However, it is very important to choose a high-quality supplement from a reputable source to ensure the potency and purity of the product.
Recommended Dosage and Frequency for Bitter Kola
The suggested daily intake of bitter kola varies according on the intended application as well as personal characteristics like age, sex, and general health. Before adding bitter kola to your diet or supplement routine, it’s crucial to speak with a medical practitioner. But, as a general rule of thumb, it’s frequently advised to take 500–1000 mg of bitter kola extract or 2-3 bitter kola nuts per day.
Possible Side Effects of Bitter Kola and Precautions
Although it is normally safe to consume bitter kola, it is vital to be informed of any possible adverse effects and safety measures. Bitter kola includes caffeine, which in some people can have negative consequences such a faster heartbeat, nervousness, and insomnia.
If you have any underlying health issues, it is crucial to speak with your doctor before using bitter kola because it may interfere with specific medications or medical conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bitter kola is a valuable natural remedy with many potential health benefits. By consuming it in a safe and controlled manner, you can reap the benefits of this powerful nut and improve your overall health and wellbeing.
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