Herbs Guide

Cola

Family Name: Sterculiaceae

Botanical Name(s): Cola vera

Popular Name(s): Kola, Guru Nut, Kola Nut

Parts Used: Seeds

Habitat: Cola is native to W. Africa. But it is cultivated also in Nigeria, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and S. America.

Description: Cola is an evergreen tree which grows to a height of about 40 feet. It has ovoid leaves, pointed at both the ends with a length of 6 to 8 inches. The plant bears yellow flowers with purple spots.

Uses: Cola has astringent and diuretic properties. It acts as an anti-depressive agent and stimulates central nervous system. It relieves a few specific cases of depression associated with weakness and debility. It cures some varieties of migraine also.