Cola Seeds

Products

Preparations from cola seeds are currently included in only a few medicinal products. In the past, various preparations such as kola wine and other kola-based tonics were made in pharmacies. The specialized trade can order kola extracts from specialized suppliers. The name of well-known soft drinks (cola drinks) such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola is derived from the kola tree and seeds. However, Coca-Cola today no longer contains kola seed extract.

Stem plant

The parent plants are the kola trees originating from Africa, and varieties and from the mallow family (Malvaceae, formerly Sterculiaceae). Today, these trees are also cultivated in various countries.

Medicinal drug

The kola seeds (Colae semen) are used as a medicinal drug. They consist of the seed coat removed, whole or crushed, dried seeds of both and their varieties as well as . The pharmacopoeia requires a minimum content of caffeine. Extracts and tinctures are made from the seeds with ethanol, among other things. Incidentally, the often used name kola nut is not correct from a botanical point of view.

Ingredients

The ingredients include:

  • Alkaloids: methylxanthines: caffeine (about 2%), theobromine.
  • Tannins, flavonoids, antioxidants.
  • Starch, sugar, proteins, fat
  • Minerals

Effects

The preparations have stimulating properties. The contained caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, respiration and cardiovascular system. It keeps you awake, promotes concentration and performance, has diuretic properties, and aids digestion. The effects are due to antagonism at adenosine receptors.

Indications for use

Primarily as a stimulant against fatigue and drowsiness. To promote alertness and performance, as a smart drug. Traditionally also used for ceremonial, social, religious and medicinal purposes.

Dosage

In Western countries, preparations containing cola extracts are usually taken. In African countries of origin, the seeds are also chewed.

Precautions

See under the article on caffeine.

Adverse effects

The possible adverse effects of caffeine include:

  • Restlessness, irritability, nervousness, sleep disturbances, anxiety.
  • Rapid heart rate, hypertension, arrhythmias.
  • Increased urination
  • Nausea, indigestion

Regular consumption leads to mild dependence and tolerance. With abrupt discontinuation, withdrawal symptoms such as a caffeine withdrawal headache and irritability may occur. See under caffeine withdrawal.