KOLA NUT POWDER Cola nitida = Cola acuminata
Indigenous to coastal rainforests of West and Central Africa, the seeds of this beautiful tree have been prized for their powerful stimulant effect. A member of the same family as Cacao, the Sterculiaceae. The whole seed is carefully peeled to remove the two large cotyledons within the kernel shell. These are dried to form the Kola "nuts" which are powdered for use. This powder contains between 1% and 3.5% caffeine (usually about 2%). Theobromine is also present in amounts just under one percent. The fresh Kola nuts are particularly enjoyed where the trees grow, and this preference is known to have solid grounds in scientific fact: the xanthines (caffeine and theobromine) are bound together with an unusual compound called kolacatechin, which itself breaks down upon drying into the tannin Kola Red. The kolacatechin allows the bound chemicals to be absorbed in a joined fashion, with a unique synergistic action not the same as when experienced as individual substances in dried Kola powder. For those of us not so fortunate as to have access to a nearby Kola tree in season, the dried product must suffice. In fact, the dried Kola nut has been so craved and appreciated in Africa that extensive intertribal trade networks managed to have passed it from coast to coast, north to south. In past generations, the Kola nut was treated as a unit of money.
The reddish-brown powder may be taken in its natural state, either eaten straight, mixed with honey or packed in capsules. A normal dose is 1-2 teaspoons. Kola is traditionally eaten before a meal to aid digestion and thought to improve the flavor of anything eaten after it. An interesting drink may be prepared by stirring the Kola powder into cold water (a tablespoon per cup) and gradually bringing it to a near boil, reducing the heat to simmer for five minutes before straining. The drink may be sweetened to taste, but it is best without cream or other flavorings. It has a unique flavor, not unpleasant. The many types of soft drinks which use some Kola essence have a hint of this taste. In fact the original Coca-Cola got its name from Kola nut and coca leaf once being major herbal ingredients.
The effects usually are first noticed as an increase in depth of breathing accompanied by spine tingling rushes of energy which begin in the lower back and swirl up to the base of the head, climaxing with a tightening of the scalp and a feeling of the hair standing on end. It can range from a quick flash up the spine to a full-on, one-by-one opening of the chakras as a kundalini-like mobilization of vital force rises to the crown of the head. Most people notice this sort of experience, especially those who tend to have body consciousness as an inclination. Kola usually comes on very smoothly, accelerating somatic and cerebral energy for about an hour. It is good to use that peak time for enjoying the ride. Since the skin’s pleasure receptors are especially effected, the sensation of touch becomes very pleasurable indeed. Delicate stroking or very light massage can be an enjoyable thing to share with a partner. This is enhanced by calming the mind and focusing on the surface of the skin while in a relaxed posture. The combination of an alert, receptive state of mental stimulation with the sensitization of pleasure in touch make Kola a delightful experience.

Wildcrafted African Kola Nut powder  30gm