shippingposition
  • Home
  • News
  • Editorial
    • Vox Pop
  • Maritime safety
  • Oil and Gas
  • Personality
  • Health
No Result
View All Result
shippingposition

Home » BEHOLD, THE ‘SWEETNESS’ OF BITTER KOLA

BEHOLD, THE ‘SWEETNESS’ OF BITTER KOLA

by Joshua
August 8, 2010
in Uncategorized

(With additional reports from The Guardian)
Biter Kola botanically called ‘Garcinia kola’ is a tropical flowering plant found in western and central Africa and it produces brown, nut-like seeds. It has been used in African culture for centuries for medicinal purposes. Garcinia kola contains dimeric flavonoid, which is believed to have many healing benefits.
Used in folklore remedies for the treatment of ailment such as liver disorders, hepatitis, diarrhea, laryngitis, bronchitis and gonorrhoea, Garcinia kola belongs to the family Guittiferae and it is commonly called Orogbo in Yoruba language and Aki ilu in Igbo while the English name is bitter kola. Although valued because of its edible nut, the plant exhibits very potent pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. The anti-oxidant property of GK is attributed to its very high content of ascorbic acid.
It is usually found in the tropical rain forest region of West Africa. It prevails as a multi-purpose tree crop in the home gardens of southern Nigeria. It grows to a height of about 12 – 14m and produces reddish, yellowish or orange coloured fruit. Each fruit contains 2 to 4 yellow seeds and a sour tasting pulp. The seeds when chewed have a bitter astringent taste. The flowering of the plant occurs between December and January while the fruits mature between June and August.
Significance
Bitter kola is used in many tropical countries to fight infectious diseases such as Aids and the Ebola virus. It has shown to posses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
Cold Remedy
Bitter kola is often used to treat the symptoms of colds. It is suggested, in particular, for coughs and sneezing.
Impotence
Bitter kola is sometimes believed to cure impotence.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Garcinia kola has been successfully used to treat patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis, according to a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery. It reduced pain and swelling and improved movement.
Immunity
Garcinia kola is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used to prevent infections and viruses, especially of the immune system.
Hop Substitute
Garcinia kola is used as a substitute for hops in brewing lager beer. It is especially useful in preventing beer spoilage.
…..And Researchers affirm its efficacy
In a report published recently in The Internet Journal of Pulmonary Medicine. 2009:Volume 11 Number 1, the researchers: A.K. Okojie ,I. Ebomoyi,C.N. Ekhator,O. Emeri,J. Okosun, G. Onyesu, O. Uhuonrenren, and J. Atima from the Department of Physiology, University of Benin and Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma,in a holistic review decided to find out the physiological mechanism(s) underlying the use of GK for the treatment of asthma. Specifically they were interested in finding out the function(s) of its phytochemical contents and how they are beneficial in the treatment of asthma.
At the end, they said:"Garcinia kola appears to be very promising in the treatment and management of asthma, Our review showed that xanthone and flavonoid, which are its major phytochemical contents inhibit calcium influx and histamine release stimulated by IgE dependent ligands respectively."
Garcinia kola is highly valued because of its medicinal use. The seeds are chewed as an aphrodisiac or used to cure cough, dysentery, chest colds in herbal medicine.
The plant has also found usefulness in the treatment of stomach ache and gastritis. In fact, Professor Maurice Iwu, the chairman of INEC in a study carried out at the University of Nigeria Nsukka reported the use of the plant for the treatment of jaundice, high fever, and as purgative.
Gk has been shown to inhibit smooth muscle activity. It relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus and the intestine. Although, Gk lacks caffeine, its alkaloid and biflavonoids fractions are said to relax the smooth muscles. Gk has a bronchodilatory effect.
The seeds are used in the treatment of bronchitis and throat infections. They are also used to prevent and relieve colic, cure head or chest colds and relieve cough. Also, the plant is used for the treatment of liver disorders and as a chewing stick.
Asthma is a very common chronic disease involving the respiration system. Episodic or chronic wheezing, cough, and feeling of tightness in the chest as a result of bronchoconstriction characterize it. The fundamental cause is still unknown despite intensive research. However, three abnormalities are present: airway obstruction that is at least partially reversible, airway inflammation, and airway hyper responsiveness to a variety of stimuli. A link to allergy has long been recognized, and plasma IgE levels are often elevated.
The fundamental problem in asthma appears to be immunological. In immunologic model, asthma is a disease mediated by reaginic (IgE) antibodies bound to mast cells in the airway mucosa. On reexposure to an antigen, antigen-antibody interaction on the surface of mast cells triggers both the release of mediators stored in the cells granules and the synthesis and release of other mediators. The agents responsible for the early reaction mediating bronchoconstriction including histamine, tryptase and other neural proteases, leukotrienes C4 and D4, and prostaglandin causes muscle contraction and vascular leakage. The mechanisms underlying bronchial reactivity, such as ozone exposure, allergen inhalation, and infection with respiratory viruses also cause airway inflammation. In humans, the increase in bronchial reactivity induced by ozone is associated with an increase in the number of polymorphonuclear leukocytes found in fluid obtained by bronchial lavage or from bronchial mucosa biopsies. The increase in reactivity due to allergen inhalation is associated with an increase in both eosinophils and polymorphonuclear leukocytes in bronchial lavage fluid. Whatever the mechanisms responsible for bronchial hyperreactivity, bronchoconstriction itself seems to result not simply from the direct effect of the released mediators but also from their activation of neural or humoral pathways.
 
Intake of Gk will therefore reduce the inhibition of antihistamine activity of flavonoids by copper which is as a result of its high content of vitamin C and zinc. Some studies noted that naturally occurring plant flavonoids affect a variety of cell activation phenomena including the secretion of histamine from human basophils. They also showed that flavonoids inhibit the degranulation of mast cells. Degranulation of mast cells would release not only histamine, but all the mediators of the allergy response.
The review reported that flavonoids exhibited anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties induced by acetylcholine, histamine, noradrenaline and barium chloride in four different smooth muscles. In addition, flavonoids are said to inhibit antigen-induced release of histamine from mast cells, basophils and also inhibit contractions induced by histamine and acetylcholine. It was noted that this effect was concentration dependent.
Flavonoids are said to inhibit phospholipids metabolism and 5- lipoxygenase (5-LO). Leukotrienes are derived from arachidonic acid through 5-LO and the nucleophilic attack to produce peptidoleukotrienes. These 5-LO products mediate constriction of airway smooth muscles, leukocyte chemotaxis and vascular permeability. Therefore inhibiting 5-LO can attenuate leukotriene production.
The presence of phenol in GK further indicated that it could act as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune enhancers. Phenols have been responsible in having the ability to block specific enzymes that cause inflammation. They also modify the prostaglandin pathways and thereby protect platelet from clumping.
From this review, the following could be the underlying physiological mechanisms by which Garcinia kola may be beneficial in the treatment of asthma:
"Garcinia kola appears to be very promising in the treatment and management of asthma. There is therefore the need to further examine its various phytochemical contents on respiratory smooth muscle, with a view to possibly formulating its extracts or active constituents as medicines."

 

 


Related Posts

Despite ₦5.17trn Surplus, Dollar Dominates Nigeria-China Trade As Naira-Yuan Swap Struggles

Despite ₦5.17trn Surplus, Dollar Dominates Nigeria-China Trade As Naira-Yuan Swap Struggles

June 30, 2025
Meningitis: Death Toll In Kebbi Hits 56 – Govt 

Meningitis: Death Toll In Kebbi Hits 56 – Govt 

March 24, 2025
Navy Rescues 8 Police Officers,1 Civilian From Boat Accident In Bayelsa

Navy Rescues 8 Police Officers,1 Civilian From Boat Accident In Bayelsa

January 8, 2025
PHOTO NEWS: SIFAX Thanksgiving and Night of Praise 2.0

PHOTO NEWS: SIFAX Group Thanksgiving and Night of Praise 2.0

December 18, 2024

Discussion about this post

Latest News

BREAKING: Apapa Customs Rakes in N1.3 Trillion Revenue in First Half of 2025

BREAKING: Apapa Customs Rakes in N1.3 Trillion Revenue in First Half of 2025

July 1, 2025

Oyetola Inaugurates NPA Governing Board, Calls for Reform-Driven Leadership

Industry Conflict Resolution: Nigeria Saved N6bn In 2024 – NSC 

Merchant Navy Felicitates Maritime Workers Union On Successful Branch Elections

CRFFN Rallies Freight Forwarders for Digital Transformation, Targets AfCFTA Market Opportunities

Nwagbara Advocates Anti-Harassment Policies, Risk Assessment on Nigerian Vessels

FRONT PAGE COMMENT: Adewale Adeniyi: Two Years of Steady Hands at the Helm of Nigeria Customs

Despite ₦5.17trn Surplus, Dollar Dominates Nigeria-China Trade As Naira-Yuan Swap Struggles

Tinubu Hails Customs CG’s WCO Council Election

FG To Begin Boat Manufacturing, Phase Out Rickety Vessels –Shippers Council

Nigerian Exporters Reject AfCFTA over Poor Infrastructure, Dollar Dependence, Policy Gaps  

Stakeholders Decry Power Tussle Over Wreck Removal, Demand Transparency from NIMASA on Sea Protection Levies 

kindly like our Facebook page

Health

Contraceptive Pills Can’t Cause Cervical Cancer – Expert
Health

Contraceptive Pills Can’t Cause Cervical Cancer – Expert

June 30, 2025

Mrs Roseline Akinlabi, Adolescent and Youth Sexual Reproductive Health Desk Officer, Osun Primary Healthcare Board, says contraceptive pills cannot cause...

ONIONS: The Good Old Healing Vegetable

KNOW YOUR BODY PARTS: The Liver The liver is a vital organ located in the right upper abdomen, playing a crucial role in metabolism, detoxification, and digestion. It’s the largest solid organ in the body and is responsible for filtering blood, maintaining blood sugar levels, regulating clotting, and synthesizing essential proteins. The liver also stores energy, removes toxins, and produces bile, which aids in digestion Liver functions: · Metabolism and Detoxification: The liver processes nutrients from the blood, breaks down and balances them, and creates essential substances for the body. It detoxifies harmful substances like drugs and alcohol, converting them into less toxic forms for excretion. The liver plays a role in the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. It stores glycogen (a form of glucose) and vitamins, releasing them when the body needs them. · Digestion: The liver produces bile, which is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to help digest fats. Bile also helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. · Blood Regulation: The liver regulates blood sugar levels by storing and releasing glucose. It synthesizes clotting factors, which are essential for blood clotting. It removes old red blood cells and processes bilirubin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown. · Other Functions: The liver plays a role in immunity, helping to fight off infections. It produces proteins that are involved in the immune response. The liver also stores iron and other essential minerals. Frequently Asked Questions About The Liver · What are the first signs of a bad liver? The initial signs of liver problems can be vague and subtle, often including fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite. As the liver’s condition worsens, more specific symptoms may emerge, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), itchy skin, dark urine, and light-colored stools. Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right quadrant, can also indicate liver issues. · Where do you feel liver pain? Liver pain is typically felt in the upper right abdomen, just beneath the rib cage. It can manifest as a dull, throbbing pain, a stabbing sensation, or a general feeling of discomfort in that area. In some cases, liver pain might be felt as an ache in the right shoulder or back. · What does liver pain feel like? How liver pain feels can vary from person to person, depending on the cause. However, most people often develop one or more of the following symptoms: Dull, persistent aches in the upper abdomen A feeling of fullness or bloating Sharp, stabbing pains that come and go Tenderness when the upper abdomen is touched · What is the best way to cleanse your liver? If you haven’t been working out, start indulging in a regular exercise regime to allow the toxins to come out of your body. Yoga, going running, hitting the gym, or a simple sauna session can also prove effective. If you want a natural liver cleanse, sweating is the way to go. · How to know if the liver is swollen? What are the symptoms of an enlarged liver? You likely won’t notice an enlarged liver on your own. In some severe cases, you might notice a feeling of bloating or fullness in your belly or an ache in your upper right abdomen. · What is the best drink to flush your liver? Many citrus fruits, including lemon, can be added to water to help stimulate and flush out the liver. Lemons are high in nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants

June 16, 2025
ONIONS: The Good Old Healing Vegetable

ONIONS: The Good Old Healing Vegetable

June 16, 2025
Why Prostate Disorder Cases Are Increasing Among Nigerian Men – Experts

Why Prostate Disorder Cases Are Increasing Among Nigerian Men – Experts

June 1, 2025
20m Nigerians Live With Mental Health Issues, Says WHO

20m Nigerians Live With Mental Health Issues, Says WHO

June 1, 2025
Health Facts You Didn’t Know

How Your Habit Affects Fertility

May 19, 2025
Fruits For Raining Season

Fruits For Raining Season

May 19, 2025
See Mental Illness Like Other Treatable Diseases – Says Suicide Survivor

Health Facts You Didn’t Know

May 19, 2025
Alligator Pepper: Benefits, FAQ, Side Effects, & Warning

Alligator Pepper: Benefits, FAQ, Side Effects, & Warning

April 28, 2025
Water And Health: The Relationship That Helps Life

Water And Health: The Relationship That Helps Life

April 28, 2025

© 2021 Shippingposition

Navigate Site

  • Home
  • About Us
  • Contact us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Sitemap
  • Terms

Follow Us

No Result
View All Result
  • News
  • Coast To Coast
  • Oil and Gas
  • Maritime Education
  • The Terminals
  • Maritime safety

© 2021 Shippingposition