Comfort Yakubu
Although, It is not clear when the first kola was cultivated historically, but records indicate kola nut has been an important commodity for a very long time in Africa. It was an important trade item during the trans Saharan trade
Comfort Yakubu
The kola nut is very significant in Africa for both religious and social functions.
Although, It is not clear when the first kola was cultivated historically, but records indicate kola nut has been an important commodity for a very long time in Africa. it was an important trade item during the trans Saharan trade:Kola nut in most African societies signifies unity. It was mainly used as a form of currency in the past, for religious rituals and also sworn upon by religious people.
“Goro city” was a hit song in 1970 by Manu Dibango of Niamey, the capital of Niger, showing the significance of kola nut in that region. In some parts of Cameroon, If one cuts down a kola nut tree he pays a fine to the community.The Igbos of the South Eastern part of Nigeria see the kola nut tree as a tree of life. An Igbo man would welcome a visitor with kola nut, saying “Onye Wetara Oji Wetara Ndu”, which means ,He who brings the kola nut brings life.The kola nut is also used for rituals and divination called Obi divination. The specie with the four cotyledons is preferred in this instance.The Igbos believe the kola nut does not understand English hence the prayers and incantations are usually done in Igbo.The kolanut is also important in northern Nigeria, where it is chewed as stimulant as alcohol is not accepted in the north.In the Yoruba society of Nigeria, it symbolizes fertility and protection from evil. It is believed to be the favorite food of the Ifa divination deity.
In the 1800’s pharmacist John Pemberton took extracts of kola and cocoa mixed with sugar with some other ingredients and carbonated water to make the first cola soft drink.The drink soon became one of America’s most popular drinks, after it was bought by Asa Candler another Atlanta pharmacist and businessman based in Atlanta .Today, Coca-cola has become one of the most popular drinks all over the world.‘Aside from the religious and social uses of the kola nut in Africa, It also has health benefits.It is used as a remedy for cold ,weight loss, and also to fight infections; experts however advice that it should be taken with caution,as studies show excessive intake of caffeine results in unsteady hands, restlessness
