Petit cola: vigilance and energy

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Extract from the article: Petit cola has long been recognised for its properties, particularly as an aphrodisiac. Unfortunately, we are unaware that it has stimulating properties for the nervous system. This seed, extracted from the fruit of the petit cola plant, has traditio

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Petit cola has long been recognised for its properties, particularly as an aphrodisiac. Unfortunately, we are unaware that it has stimulating properties for the nervous system. This seed, extracted from the fruit of the petit cola plant, has traditionally been used in various cultures for its energising and revitalising effects.

Petit cola seeds have been chewed for thousands of years in Africa to combat physical and mental fatigue and depression.

Natural stimulant

Several scientific studies have explored the constituents of kola, highlighting its richness in caffeine, theobromine and theophylline.These substances are natural stimulants that act on the central nervous system, increasing alertness and reducing feelings of fatigue.The stimulating effects of kola on the central nervous system are essentially due to its high caffeine content, whose benefits in reducing short-term fatigue and increasing alertness are already widely recognised. In high doses, caffeine is even as effective as other prescription stimulants such as modafinil, as suggested by the study ‘Effects of dextroamphetamine, caffeine and modafinil on psychomotor vigilance test performance after 44 h of continuous wakefulness’ carried out in 2008 on 53 healthy adults. This study examined the effects of petit cola nut, highlighting its stimulant properties, similar to those of coffee, but with milder and longer-lasting effects.

Improving concentration

Research has been carried out to assess the impact of kola on cognitive functions.A study published in ‘Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior’ showed that consumption of petit cola improved concentration, memory and cognitive performance in participants.These results suggest that petit cola may be a natural way of improving mental function.

Recipe: Boil 1 to 3 g of dried powder in 150 mL of water for 5 to 10 minutes. Drink 1 to 3 cups a day.

Raymond DZAKPATA