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Cola Nut

Also known as: Cola acuminata, Cola nitida, Cola nut, kola nut, guru nut, bissy nut

Overview

Cola nut is the seed of trees in the genus *Cola*, native to tropical Africa. It contains caffeine and theobromine, which are responsible for its stimulant effects. Traditionally, it is chewed or used in beverages for its stimulant properties, and has been used in traditional medicine for digestive and respiratory issues. The primary uses of cola nut include combating fatigue and depression, and as a general stimulant. The effects are similar to those of caffeine, providing increased alertness and reduced fatigue. Limited high-quality clinical research exists, with most evidence being observational or based on traditional use. The available evidence is generally of low to moderate quality, with few RCTs or systematic reviews specifically on cola nut supplementation. Most evidence is extrapolated from caffeine research.

Benefits

The primary benefit of cola nut is the stimulation of the central nervous system, leading to increased alertness and reduced fatigue. These effects are dose-dependent and comparable to those of caffeine, with typical improvements in alertness and cognitive performance observed at doses equivalent to 50–200 mg of caffeine. There is limited evidence suggesting potential mood enhancement and appetite suppression, primarily attributed to its caffeine content. The benefits are generally applicable to healthy adults, with moderate effect sizes for alertness and cognitive performance. The onset of benefits typically occurs within 30–60 minutes, with a duration of 3–6 hours, depending on the dosage and individual metabolism.

How it works

Cola nut's stimulant effects are primarily due to caffeine and theobromine. The primary mechanism of action involves adenosine receptor antagonism (A1 and A2A receptors). This antagonism leads to increased neuronal firing and the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. The primary impact is on the central nervous system (CNS), with secondary effects on the cardiovascular system, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. Caffeine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, reaching peak plasma concentrations within 30–60 minutes, while theobromine is absorbed more slowly and has a longer half-life.

Side effects

Cola nut is generally safe for healthy adults at typical doses, with a safety profile similar to caffeine. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, and gastrointestinal upset. Increased heart rate is also a common side effect. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1–5% of users, may include headache, dizziness, and irritability. Rare side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, include arrhythmias, severe anxiety, and allergic reactions. Cola nut may interact with stimulants, MAO inhibitors, and medications metabolized by CYP1A2. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, individuals with anxiety disorders, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. It is not recommended for children, adolescents, or individuals sensitive to caffeine.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of cola nut is approximately equivalent to 50 mg of caffeine, which is about 1 cola nut. Optimal dosage ranges are between 50–200 mg of caffeine per day, or 1–4 cola nuts. The maximum safe dose for healthy adults is 400 mg of caffeine per day; however, this should be lower for sensitive individuals. It is best taken in the morning or early afternoon to avoid sleep disturbances. Cola nut can be consumed as a whole nut, powder, or extract, with similar bioavailability across forms. Absorption is rapid and not significantly affected by food. No specific cofactors are required for its effects.

FAQs

What is cola nut used for?

Cola nut is primarily used for its stimulant effects, similar to caffeine from other sources. It can increase alertness, reduce fatigue, and improve cognitive performance.

Is cola nut safe?

Cola nut is safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. However, it should be avoided by individuals sensitive to caffeine, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with certain medical conditions.

When should I take cola nut?

It is best to take cola nut early in the day to prevent sleep disruption. Its effects typically last for 3-6 hours, depending on the dose and individual metabolism.

What are the expected results from taking cola nut?

Users can expect increased alertness, reduced fatigue, and improved cognitive performance. These effects are primarily due to the caffeine content of the cola nut.

Is cola nut a weight loss supplement?

No, cola nut is not a weight loss supplement. Its effects are primarily due to caffeine, and any perceived appetite suppression is a result of caffeine's stimulant properties.

Research Sources

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-937/cola-nut – This WebMD ingredient monograph summarizes available evidence on cola nut. It highlights that cola nut contains caffeine and is used for fatigue and depression, with effects similar to caffeine. While useful for background information, it is not a systematic review or meta-analysis and is limited to a summary of available evidence.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9930735/ – This meta-analysis of cohort studies examines the relationship between nut and seed consumption and the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study found that tree nut and seed consumption is associated with reduced cardiovascular risk. However, this study does not specifically focus on cola nut.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38781314/ – This systematic review with meta-analysis investigates the effect of nut supplementation on anthropometric and glycemic indexes and blood pressure. The review found that nut supplementation improves metabolic health. However, cola nut was not specifically addressed in this review.
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/systematic-review-and-metaanalysis-of-nut-consumption-and-incident-risk-of-cvd-and-allcause-mortality/87F504EFAD274052C0DA80B13ADE2AA3 – This systematic review and meta-analysis examines the association between nut consumption and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality. The study found an inverse association between nut consumption and the incidence of CVD and all-cause mortality. However, this study does not specifically focus on cola nut.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/obr.13330 – This review examines the effects of nut consumption on various health outcomes, including metabolic health. The review found that nut consumption can improve metabolic health markers. However, this study does not specifically focus on cola nut.