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Cola - Genus of plants

Cola is a genus of plants that has around 125 wild species, evergreens and tall trees, native to the tropical forests of West Africa and belonging to the Sterculiaceae family; the best known are the Cola acuminata, the Cola nitida, the Cola verticillata and the Cola vera.

In addition to its place of origin, Cola plantations are also found in South America - especially in Brazil - in the West Indies, in Jamaica and in other humid tropical climate regions.

The fruits are formed by oblong and leathery follicles, grouped at 2-6 and containing from 5 to 10 seeds each. These seeds, improperly called cola nuts, have a particularly bitter and astringent taste, due to the abundant presence of various alkaloids and tannins.

Property

Similarly to what was done by the Andean populations with coca leaves, the natives used to chew Cola nuts, even in a fresh state, with the intent of alleviating fatigue, hunger and thirst. In fact, the Cola has tonic, exciting and restorative properties; decreases the perception of fatigue and breathlessness, improves cardiac contractility, nervous and cerebral efficiency. Responsible for these activities is the alkaloid caffeine, contained in the cola nut at a rate of 2-3.5% (a slightly higher quantity than coffee seeds), together with another stimulating substance, called theobromine (0.2 - 1% approx.

The kola nut also has mild diuretic properties and, according to the indigenous peoples of West Africa, would have a certain aphrodisiac power.

Cola is a common ingredient in many traditional beverages (coca-cola in particular), stimulants and soft-drinks, as well as cola-flavored popsicles.

Side effects and contraindications

Cola is part of the composition of many herbal supplements and preparations, taken on by athletes to enhance their performance; in reality, particular caution is recommended when purchasing and taking such supplements, not so much and not only for possible side effects, but for the risk of being positive for doping controls. These products, in fact, thanks to the contribution of various nervine drugs (coffee, guarana, mate and the same cola) can contain important amounts of caffeine, which in addition to a certain dosage is included in the list of doping substances compiled by the IOC. Furthermore, these supplements must not be taken during pregnancy, breastfeeding and under 14 years. In the presence of cardiovascular disease and / or hypertension, it is very important to consult your doctor before using them. To keep in mind, ultimately, that the cola taken just before bedtime could interfere with normal rest, causing difficulty in falling asleep.