kolanut

Kolanut, or kola nut, refers to the seeds of several Cola species native to tropical Africa, most commonly Cola nitida and Cola acuminata. The seeds are hard, rounded or oblong, and have a bitter, astringent taste. When chewed, they release a caffeinated juice that acts as a mild stimulant. The nuts contain caffeine and theobromine, among other compounds, and can be eaten fresh or after roasting and drying.

Kolanut has played a long cultural role in West and Central African societies as a symbol of hospitality and a component of social rituals. At gatherings and ceremonies, a kola nut is broken and offered to guests, often accompanied by greetings or blessings. The act of breaking the nut and distributing pieces serves as a social cue and a sign of welcome, with customary sequences for sharing among participants.

Beyond ceremonial use, kola nuts have historically contributed to flavoring beverages and foods. The term “cola” in many popular soft drinks traces its origin to the kola nut, though modern beverages typically use synthetic caffeine or other flavorings rather than the fresh seed.

Although widely respected for hospitality and stimulant properties, kola nuts are sometimes confused with bitter kola, which refers to Garcinia kola—a different plant with separate uses in traditional medicine. Kolanut remains a notable element of West African cultural practice and culinary tradition.