CHEW ON THIS FOLKS, NOT BAD FOR SUNDAY READING..hehehehehe!
Kola('Gouru'): A Real Herb or a Fast High?
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Fast facts: relieves drowsiness, temporarily increase stamina, enhances
the pain-relieving effects of aspirin
To Westerners, Colas are a way of life. A quick, sweet drink to relieve
you from the heat of the day. Did you know that the tropical nut that
flavors cola is one of the most popular snacks in West Africa? And doctors
say that it has several medicinal benefits to boot.
As far back as we can tell, West Africans have used kola for its stimulant
effect, and no wonder -- kola contains caffeine, and lots of it. The
bitter taste does not deter those in need of a quick energy boost. Its
addictiveness creates a huge demand, even in areas far from its rain
forest origins. Fortunately, when kept in moist wrappings--burlap is often
used-- the green and brown nuts can be stored for several weeks without
losing much of their freshness.
Historically the green or brown nuts were used as currency. Today in many
places the nuts are still regarded as a store of wealth--travelers can go
to markets with the certainty that they can trade their kola for the goods
which they need.
When slaves brought kola to the New World, its stimulant action was
adopted medicinally as an antidepressant pick-me-up. Pharmacists stocked
it, including John Pemberton, who aspired to developing a kola- based
"nerve tonic." Legend has it that in 1886, Pemberton mixed some sugar with
extracts of kola and coca (the source of cocaine) in a three-legged brass
pot in his backyard. He added carbonated water to his sweet syrup and
created a refreshing drink that his bookkeeper dubbed Coca-Cola. Today,
Coca-Cola is one of the best-known brand names in the world.
As with coffee, kola's caffeine content accounts for both its medicinal
benefits and its potential problems. On the plus side, caffeine increases
the pain-relieving action of aspirin. It is also a stimulant that may open
(dilate) the bronchial passages and temporarily increase athletic stamina.
On the minus side, large amounts of caffeine can cause insomnia, jitters,
irritability and upset stomach and, some experts say, may increase risk of heart attack. It's also addictive - once you are accustomed to caffeine,
sudden elimination often causes a headache that can last for several days.
Cola beverages, although they tend to be loaded with sugar, are the most convenient way for westerners to consume kola. But for most West Africans,
the nuts themselves are a daily routine. For Westerners (or anyone,
really) traveling in the area, kola nuts are an excellent gift to present
to villagers, especially for your host or whenever you just want to give a
gift to someone.
Provided by Prevention's Healthy Ideas
http://www.healthyideas.com/
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