Kola nut

The kola nut is the fruit of the kola tree (Cola acuminata and Cola nitida), indigenous to West Africa. The trees, which reach heights of 40 to 60 feet, produce a star-shaped fruit. Each fruit contains between two and five kola nuts. About the size of a chestnut, this little fruit is packed with caffeine.

The kola nut is highly treasured across all socioeconomic and religious scopes for its cultural symbolism, economic significance, and health benefits. It used to be a key flavoring component and a significant source of caffeine in commercial colas like Coca-Cola. However, it is no longer used by some well-known cola brands. The kola nut, a seed from the kola tree, contains naturally occurring caffeine. People use its extract as a food additive and can consume it fresh or dry. Although the kola nut itself may be beneficial for health, consistently consuming sugar-filled drinks is linked to weight gain and other harmful effects on health.