Botanical Overview
Garcinia kola (family Clusiaceae) is a West and Central African tree known primarily for its seeds, commonly called bitter kola or male kola. The seeds, bark, and leaves of the plant are used medicinally. Bitter kola seeds are traditionally chewed or used in preparations for their therapeutic effects.
Energetics
Garcinia kola is considered warming and drying, with bitter and pungent tastes. It acts as a tonifying herb that primarily influences the body’s qi.
Primary Actions
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Bronchodilator
- Hepatoprotective
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Inflammation
- Headache
Syndromes
- Respiratory infections
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Inflammatory conditions
Unani
- Cough
- Fever
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Respiratory disorders
- Digestive disorders
- Inflammatory conditions
TCM
No validated traditional Chinese medicine indications available.
Ayurveda
No validated Ayurvedic indications available.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The seeds contain biflavonoids, xanthones, phenols, and specifically the biflavonoid complex kolaviron, responsible for many pharmacological effects including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.
Dosage & Preparations
- Chewing raw seeds: 2-3 pieces daily
- Decoction of seeds: 2-3 g twice daily
- Ethanolic extract standardized for kolaviron: 100-200 mg/day
Safety & Contraindications
Bitter kola is generally safe in traditional doses. However, caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. Potential interactions exist with anticoagulants and hypoglycemic medications, necessitating monitoring. High doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or nervousness.
Astrological Correspondences
No authoritative sources found for planetary or elemental rulers.
Selected References
- Phytochemical and pharmacological review of Garcinia kola Heckel (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2016)
- Medicinal Plants of West Africa, Volume 1 (Burkill, 1997)
- Kolaviron, a biflavonoid complex from Garcinia kola seeds: Pharmacological and toxicological studies (Phytotherapy Research, 2006)
- WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants – Volume 2 (World Health Organization, 2002)