Common Name: Bitter Kola Botanical Name: Garcinia kola General Information: West and Central African Bitter Kola trees are evergreen. They have brown, kidney bean-like seeds, and the berries are spherical or flattened. The seeds taste bitter-sweet. Nutrition: Bitter Kola contains carbs, lipids, protein, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, iron, and caffeine. It has been used to treat colds and hepatitis. Bitter Kola may treat coughs, bacterial infections, and viruses, according to a 2018 study. Cultivation Information: Bitter Kola takes 10-20 years to bloom/fruit and requires moderate upkeep. Health Benefits: Treats chest colds and maintains airway health. Rich in antioxidants for overall wellness. Contains anti-inflammatory phytochemicals. Kolaviron, a major component of Garcinia seeds, may help treat malaria. Extracts have been tested for protection against respiratory illnesses.
