Bitter Kola, also known as Garcinia kola or Garcinia cambogia, is a plant species belonging to the Guttiferae family, commonly found in tropical Africa.
It is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall and produces a fruit that is a seed capsule containing reddish-brown seeds.
The bitter-tasting seeds are used in various medicines due to their all-natural components.
Chewing bitter kola has several therapeutic benefits. The seeds contain hydroquinone and tannins that have antibacterial and antiseptic properties and can help heal skin infections, bacterial and fungal diseases.
Bitter kola is also rich in caffeine, which can activate the central nervous system, improve energy and mental alertness, and have a diuretic effect to eliminate toxins from the body.
Here are some diseases that bitter kola can help treat when consumed regularly:
1. Inflammation
According to healthline Bitter kola has strong anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation caused by different illnesses like arthritis and digestive problems. The tannins in the seeds may also reduce gastric acidity and protect the stomach lining.
2. Respiratory disorders
Consuming bitter kola can relieve the symptoms of respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and cough. The seeds have strong antibacterial and antiseptic qualities that can reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and alleviate related symptoms.
3. Diabetes
Regularly chewing bitter kola can help control blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. The compounds in the seed can help reduce insulin resistance, which may help control blood sugar levels.