DE 
EN The kola nut is a natural powerhouse containing up to 3.5% caffeine and 1% theobromine, which act gently and have a long-lasting effect. It contains valuable ingredients such as catechin and epicatechin, which have antioxidant properties, as well as tannins and proteins. Ideal for an active daily life, it supports concentration, improves mood, and promotes communication. Perfect for fasting and fitness, it also aids in weight control. However, caution is advised for those with caffeine allergies.
Ingredients of the Kola Nut
According to literature, kola nuts contain, depending on the variety, up to 3.5% caffeine and 0.05% to 1% theobromine.
A recent laboratory analysis of Cola nitida yielded the following values: 2.4% caffeine and 0.31% theobromine.
Both alkaloids in pure form are white, odorless, crystalline powders with a bitter taste. See below for more details.
Additionally, it contains:
- Catechin: from the group of flavonoids with high antioxidant potential
- Epicatechin: also known from cocoa
- Procyanidins: from the group of flavanols, also known as OPC
- Tannins
- Up to 45% starch
- Protein up to 10%
- 3% sugar
- Only 0.3% fats, of which saturated fatty acids are 0.1%
- Other minerals such as sodium at 0.01%
Effect
The kola nut generally has an invigorating, stimulating, mood-enhancing effect and promotes communication.
The caffeine and theobromine in the kola nut are bound to tannins, which allows them to be released gently and in a stomach-friendly manner, prolonging their effect.
The kola nut is excellent for fasting, fitness, and a demanding daily routine.
It also supports weight control by positively influencing fat metabolism and suppressing appetite.
The kola nut is helpful for learning, studying, working, and communicating.
In extreme life situations and climates, it is indispensable.
Caffeine
Caffeine, also known as coffeine or theine, is a purine alkaloid and a stimulant. It is the most widely consumed alkaloid worldwide. Caffeine stimulates the nerves and is found in beverages such as coffee, tea, cola, mate, guarana, energy drinks, and (in insignificant amounts) cocoa.
In small doses, caffeine primarily acts as a stimulant, increasing drive and concentration while reducing fatigue. Higher doses can also stimulate respiration and circulation. It improves attention and learning ability, reduces the need for sleep, and can slightly increase blood pressure, which diminishes with regular consumption. Caffeine can enhance mood up to mild euphoria, shorten reaction times, and minimally impair dexterity. It primarily acts in the central nervous system and can easily cross the blood-brain barrier. New studies suggest that caffeine may also improve long-term memory.
Proven and permissible statements about the effects of caffeine in general:
- Increased attention and concentration (75 mg caffeine per serving)
- Increased physical performance (3-4 mg caffeine per kg body weight at least 1 hour before physical activity)
Independent of this, caffeine in its natural form acts differently and is particularly variable in tolerance for sensitive individuals.
### Theobromine
Theobromine is primarily known from cocoa but is also found in the seeds of the kola tree, the leaves of the tea plant, the mate shrub, and guayusa. The alkaloid occurs in plants in non-hazardous amounts, making an overdose nearly impossible.
Theobromine, derived from the Greek words for "god" and "food," is an alkaloid from the group of methylxanthines and has a stimulating effect.
It is similar to caffeine and stimulates the nervous system. Theobromine has a diuretic, vasodilatory, and cardiac-stimulating effect and relaxes smooth muscles. Overall, its effect on the human body is similar to that of caffeine but is significantly weaker. As a stimulating substance, theobromine is often confused with caffeine but has different effects: it acts mildly and has a long-lasting stimulating and mood-enhancing effect.
Allergens
Nut allergy: NO
Despite its name, the kola nut is not a nut! It is an aggregate fruit with seeds. Therefore, the kola nut is not an allergen requiring labeling.
Caffeine allergy: YES
The kola nut has a high caffeine content and is therefore not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women. Individuals with a caffeine allergy should avoid consumption. However, those who no longer tolerate coffee can cautiously try the kola nut, as it is often better tolerated, similar to green tea.